Hello everyone! It’s Jacob Allen from Beyond the Bayou Blog. Today, I’m very excited to share my take on a timeless classic: Ambrosia Salad.
In my busy kitchen, I’m getting ready to cook up one of my absolute favorites: Ambrosia Salad. It’s a recipe I’ve perfected over time, and every time I make it, it makes me feel so good.
As I gather the ingredients, I can’t help but think back to my first try at making this salad, hoping it would turn out just right.
But now, it’s like second nature to me. I mix in each ingredient carefully, enjoying the smell of fruits and marshmallows filling the kitchen, promising a dish that’s both comforting and yummy.
Tonight’s dessert is sure to be another special moment made right here in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe?
You’ll adore this recipe for several reasons:
- Quick and simple: With just 6 basic ingredients and under 10 minutes of prep, whipping up this ambrosia salad is a breeze.
- Timeless family favorite: It’s a beloved classic that has remained popular through generations.
- Ideal for gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck or a holiday feast, this dish is a hit at events like Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving.
- Health-conscious choices: I’ve provided healthier alternatives, like swapping sour cream or whipped cream for Greek yogurt and reducing sugar by using unsweetened shredded coconut.
Overview: How to Make Ambrosia Salad Recipe?
Ambrosia Salad is a yummy dessert that’s super easy to make. It’s a mix of fruits, marshmallows, and creamy goodness. People love it because it’s sweet, creamy, and full of fruity flavors.
To make Ambrosia Salad, you just need to mix together canned fruits like pineapples and mandarin oranges, along with mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, sour cream, and whipped topping. It’s like making a fruit salad with a creamy twist!
Once everything is mixed together, you chill it in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors blend. Then, you can enjoy a delicious, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a classic recipe that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Bowl
- Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 can 20 oz pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can 11 oz mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping like Cool Whip
- 1 cup maraschino cherries drained and halved
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, sour cream, and whipped topping. Mix gently until well combined.
- Gently fold in maraschino cherries and chopped pecans if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other fruits like grapes, strawberries, or bananas.
- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light whipped topping.
Nutrition
Time For My Personal Tips!
Tip 1: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of freshly squeezed lime juice to the mix. It adds a delightful tanginess that complements the sweetness of the fruits and marshmallows perfectly.
Tip 2: To give your Ambrosia Salad a tropical twist, swap out the regular shredded coconut for toasted coconut flakes. Just toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, and then sprinkle them over the salad before serving for a deliciously crunchy texture.
Tip 3: Make sure to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to set, resulting in a creamier and more cohesive dish. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Make Ambrosia Salad More Healthier And Flavorful
To make this recipe healthier, we use fresh fruit and low or reduced-fat sour cream, which keeps it light. However, I don’t suggest skipping the marshmallows unless you have another ingredient that can give the same texture.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg according to your taste preferences. These spices add a delightful twist to the classic recipe.
What to Serve With Ambrosia Salad Recipe?
Here’s Your Dairy Free Version of Ambrosia Salad
You can easily make a dairy-free version of Ambrosia Salad by using dairy-free sour cream and whipped topping alternatives. There are plenty of options available at most grocery stores these days, such as coconut or almond-based alternatives. Just swap them in for the dairy ingredients, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make this Ahead of Time?
In fact, making Ambrosia Salad ahead of time is a great idea because it allows the flavors to meld together even more. I often prepare it the night before a gathering and let it chill in the fridge overnight. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to make sure everything is nicely mixed.
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
While the convenience of canned fruit is hard to beat, fresh fruit can definitely be used if you prefer. Just make sure to use ripe, seasonal fruit and adjust the quantities accordingly. Fresh pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and cherries would all work wonderfully in this recipe.