Ambrosia Salad

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by Lionel Ramon

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Ambrosia Salad is the delightful dessert that brings a smile to your face with its fluffy cloud-like texture and colorful bursts of fruit. The moment you take a spoonful, you’re greeted by the sweet aroma of coconut mingling with juicy pineapple and tangy mandarin oranges. delicious dessert bites This dish doesn’t just look appealing; it tastes like a tropical vacation on a plate.

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I can still remember the first time I tasted Ambrosia Salad at my great-aunt’s potluck. It was as if I’d stumbled upon a hidden treasure, surrounded by all the usual suspects of macaroni salad and potato dishes. sweet potato breakfast dish This playful blend of fruits, marshmallows, and whipped cream transformed an ordinary meal into an extraordinary occasion—perfect for summer picnics or holiday gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Ambrosia Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings
  • Its sweet and creamy flavor profile delights everyone at the table
  • With vibrant colors, this dish becomes the star of any buffet spread
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on your favorite fruits or dietary needs

When I first made Ambrosia Salad for my friends, they couldn’t stop raving about how light and refreshing it was. light and fruity pie

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Mini Marshmallows: Opt for fresh mini marshmallows that add sweetness and texture without overwhelming the other flavors.

  • Pineapple Chunks: Use canned or fresh pineapple; both options will provide juicy bursts in every bite. seasonal snack option.

  • Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges are convenient, but fresh ones will elevate the taste.

  • Coconut Flakes: Sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes add a tropical flair; choose according to your preference.

  • Whipped Cream: Use store-bought whipped cream for ease or homemade for extra fluffiness.

  • Maraschino Cherries: These little gems not only add color but also a sweet-tart finish to the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare your mixing bowl: Grab a large mixing bowl that can hold all those delightful ingredients without spilling over.

Combine the fruits: Gently fold in pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges into the bowl. Their juicy sweetness will create a lovely base for your salad.

Add marshmallows and coconut: Toss in mini marshmallows and coconut flakes next. Mix carefully so you don’t squish anything—nobody wants mushy fruit!

Incorporate whipped cream: Now it’s time for the magic! Fold in whipped cream until everything is coated beautifully. The mixture should look fluffy and dreamy now.

Top with cherries: Finish off by adding maraschino cherries on top for that eye-catching pop of color. They’ll make your Ambrosia Salad look irresistible. For more inspiration, check out this Cucumber Caprese Salad recipe.

Chill before serving: Place your creation in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows all those flavors to mingle together nicely, enhancing that tropical experience.

Enjoy every scoop: When you’re ready to serve, scoop out generous portions into bowls and enjoy! Each bite will transport you straight to paradise.

With this simple yet delightful recipe, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only tasty but also packed with nostalgia!

You Must Know

  • Ambrosia Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for gatherings
  • The bright colors appeal visually, while the combination of fruits and cream creates a refreshing taste
  • It’s a nostalgic dish that brings back sweet memories of family potlucks

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make Ambrosia Salad efficiently, prepare the fruits first, then mix them with marshmallows and cream for an even blend.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Ambrosia Salad by adding nuts, coconut flakes, or substituting yogurt for sour cream to enhance the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a creamy texture, use full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Be cautious not to overmix; you want to keep fruit chunks intact
  • Always chill before serving to enhance the flavors and presentation

Creating my first Ambrosia Salad was a hilarious mess! My kids ended up with more marshmallows on their faces than in the bowl, but we all laughed our way through it.

FAQs

FAQ

What fruits work best in Ambrosia Salad?

Classic choices include mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, and mini marshmallows for sweetness.

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day prior; just keep it refrigerated until serving for freshness.

Is there a vegan version of Ambrosia Salad?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut cream or almond yogurt for a delicious vegan option.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ambrosia Salad


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8

Description

Indulge in the refreshing sweetness of Ambrosia Salad, a nostalgic dessert that combines fluffy mini marshmallows, juicy pineapple, and tangy mandarin oranges. This colorful dish is not only visually appealing but also bursts with tropical flavors, making it perfect for summer picnics or festive gatherings. With its creamy texture and easy preparation, this delightful salad is sure to impress your family and friends at any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup mandarin oranges (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherries

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large mixing bowl.
  2. Gently fold in pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges.
  3. Add mini marshmallows and coconut flakes; mix carefully.
  4. Fold in whipped cream until well-coated.
  5. Top with maraschino cherries for decoration.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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