Frog Eye Salad Recipe
Introduction
Let me share with you a delightful and refreshing recipe that has been a family favorite for years – Frog Eye Salad. This unique salad combines the flavors of fruit, marshmallows, and pasta to create a dish that is both sweet and savory. Whether you are preparing it for a potluck, a holiday gathering, or simply as a special treat for your loved ones, Frog Eye Salad never fails to impress. So, let’s dive right into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
For this delightful Frog Eye Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup Acini de Pepe pasta
- 1 1/2 cups pineapple juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
Instructions
1. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the Acini de Pepe pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine pineapple juice, sugar, flour, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries.
4. Pour the cooled pineapple juice mixture over the pasta and fruit mixture. Stir gently until everything is well coated.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, fold in the whipped topping, making sure not to overmix.
7. Serve chilled and garnish with additional maraschino cherries, if desired.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations you can try:
Keto Version: Substitute the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Replace the Acini de Pepe pasta with cooked and cooled cauliflower rice.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Frog Eye Salad in advance?
A: Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Acini de Pepe pasta works best for this recipe as its small size adds to the unique texture of the salad. However, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes if needed.
Q: Can I omit the coconut?
A: Of course! If you or your guests have a preference or allergy, feel free to leave out the shredded coconut. The salad will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Frog Eye Salad is a true crowd-pleaser that combines unexpected flavors to create a memorable dish. Its sweet and tangy taste, along with the delightful texture, will make it a favorite at any gathering. So, the next time you’re looking for a unique and delicious salad to impress your friends and family, give this Frog Eye Salad recipe a try. It’s sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection!
