Embark on a journey of nostalgia and delight with this timeless Ambrosia Salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant fruits, creamy textures, and a hint of sweetness, this dessert salad is a beloved favorite that’s been cherished for generations. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, potluck, or simply craving a taste of summer, this Ambrosia Salad is sure to bring joy to any table.
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:
- Prepare the Fruits: Drain the canned pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, halved maraschino cherries, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Add Sour Cream or Whipped Topping: Add the sour cream or whipped topping to the fruit mixture. If using sour cream, gently fold it in until all ingredients are evenly coated. If using whipped topping, simply stir it in until combined.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Ambrosia Salad for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to develop its signature creamy texture.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the Ambrosia Salad a final stir, then transfer it to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional maraschino cherries or shredded coconut if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the Ambrosia Salad chilled as a refreshing dessert or side dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to holiday gatherings.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize Your Fruits: Feel free to customize the fruits in this Ambrosia Salad to suit your taste preferences. You can add grapes, diced apples, or sliced bananas for additional flavor and texture.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or prefer to omit nuts, simply leave them out of the recipe. The Ambrosia Salad will still be delicious without them.
- Make It Healthier: For a healthier version of this classic dessert, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, reduce the amount of mini marshmallows, and opt for low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of whipped topping.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this Ambrosia Salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare this Ambrosia Salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s best to chill it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Q: Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned fruits? A: While canned fruits are traditional in Ambrosia Salad, you can certainly use fresh fruits if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the quantities and prepare the fruits accordingly (peeled, seeded, and diced as needed).
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of Ambrosia Salad by using a dairy-free whipped topping or coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.
Keto Version:
Unfortunately, Ambrosia Salad is not typically keto-friendly due to its high sugar content from the canned fruits and marshmallows. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by using fresh low-carb fruits such as berries, unsweetened shredded coconut, and a sugar-free whipped topping.
Low-Carb Version:
For a lower-carb version of Ambrosia Salad, you can use fresh low-carb fruits and reduce the amount of marshmallows or omit them altogether. You can also use a sugar-free whipped topping or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-carb option.
In conclusion, Ambrosia Salad is a delightful and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its colorful array of fruits, creamy texture, and sweet flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving it up at a summer barbecue, holiday dinner, or potluck gathering, this classic dish is guaranteed to bring smiles to faces and leave taste buds tingling with delight. So why not whip up a batch today and savor the magic of Ambrosia Salad for yourself?
