Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, sweet fruit salad that’s both refreshing and creamy. Packed with citrus, pineapple, marshmallows, and nuts, it’s a perfect side dish or dessert for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the Cool Whip and sour cream, mixing until smooth.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and substitute with extra fruit or seeds.
- Use canned pineapple chunks if fresh pineapple is unavailable—just drain well to avoid extra liquid.
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding to enhance their flavor and crunch.
Storage
Store the ambrosia salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled and fresh, as the marshmallows may soften over time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it at least an hour ahead allows the flavors to blend nicely. It can be stored overnight in the fridge for convenience.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use whipped cream or a combination of whipped cream and sour cream if you prefer a homemade alternative to Cool Whip.
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Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, creamy fruit salad featuring a delightful mix of mandarin oranges, fresh pineapple, coconut, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, and toasted pecans blended with Cool Whip and sour cream. This no-cook, chilled dessert is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a refreshing treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the Cool Whip and sour cream. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the salad’s rich dressing.
- Add fruits and extras: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, chopped fresh pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans. Mix carefully to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. It can be stored overnight for better taste and texture.
- Serve: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir and serve cold as a sweet side dish or dessert at your gathering.
Notes
- For best texture, add toasted pecans just before serving if you prefer them extra crunchy.
- Drain canned fruits well to avoid a watery salad.
- The salad tastes even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to substitute fresh fruits according to season or preference.
- Use light or reduced-fat sour cream and Cool Whip for a lower calorie version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, holiday salad, potluck salad
