Ambrosia Salad is a classic dessert that’s a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals. This sweet and tangy salad combines fruit, marshmallows, and a creamy base to create a refreshing and delightful treat. With its vibrant colors and varied textures, Ambrosia Salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, stemmed and halved
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream or 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Drain Fruits:
- Drain the canned pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- Prepare Cherries:
- Remove the stems from the maraschino cherries and cut them in half.
- Chop Nuts (Optional):
- If using, chop the pecans or walnuts into small pieces.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Fruits and Marshmallows:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, halved maraschino cherries, sweetened shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. If using, add the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Add Creamy Base:
- Gently fold in the sour cream or whipped topping until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated.
Step 3: Chill the Salad
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, stir the Ambrosia Salad gently to recombine any ingredients that may have settled. Serve the salad cold and enjoy this sweet and refreshing dessert with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Creamy Base: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of sour cream and whipped topping.
- Nuts: The nuts add a nice crunch, but you can omit them if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Fruits: Make sure to drain the canned fruits thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
Variations
Tropical Ambrosia Salad
- Add Mango and Banana:
- Add 1 cup of diced mango and 1 sliced banana for a tropical twist.
Berry Ambrosia Salad
- Add Berries:
- Add 1 cup of mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a berry-filled variation.
Ambrosia with Yogurt
- Use Yogurt:
- Substitute the sour cream or whipped topping with vanilla or coconut yogurt for a tangy and creamy base.
Serving Suggestions
Desserts
- With Cake:
- Serve as a side with a slice of pound cake or angel food cake for an extra special dessert.
- With Ice Cream:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing treat.
Beverages
- With Lemonade:
- Enjoy with a glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing combination.
- With Coffee:
- Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful contrast.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, Ambrosia Salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh fruits. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and drain any excess juice.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan? A: Yes, use a dairy-free whipped topping and make sure the marshmallows are vegan.
Q: Can I add other fruits? A: Yes, feel free to add other fruits like grapes, apples, or kiwi to customize the salad to your taste.
Ambrosia Salad is a classic and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of sweet fruits, marshmallows, and a creamy base, this salad is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, Ambrosia Salad is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with your family and friends!
