Ambrosia Salad Recipe

This Ambrosia Salad is a classic and nostalgic dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or festive occasions. With a delightful mix of fruits, marshmallows, and creamy dressing, this salad offers a balance of sweetness and freshness that’s hard to resist. The name “Ambrosia” is fitting, as this creamy, fruity dessert is truly a food of the gods. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is always a crowd favorite!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup seedless red or green grapes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 2: Add the Fruits and Marshmallows

• Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until well combined, being careful not to break the delicate fruit.

Step 3: Optional Add-Ins

• If using, fold in the chopped pecans and seedless grapes to add extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the dressing to thicken slightly.
• Serve the Ambrosia Salad cold, garnished with a few extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Draining the Fruit: Be sure to drain the canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid in your salad. Patting them dry with a paper towel can help reduce moisture.
• Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows work best because they blend easily with the fruit and dressing, adding a light, fluffy texture.
• Make Ahead: This salad is best made in advance and chilled for a few hours, making it ideal for parties or gatherings where you need a quick dish ready.

Recipe Variations

• Greek Yogurt Substitute: For a lighter version, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. It will still be creamy but slightly tangier.
• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or papaya for a more tropical flavor profile.
• No Nuts: Omit the pecans if you prefer a nut-free version. You can also substitute with slivered almonds if desired.
• Add Bananas: Slice one or two bananas and add them right before serving for an extra burst of sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How far in advance can I make Ambrosia Salad? A: You can make Ambrosia Salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, but add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marshmallows may soften over time, but the salad will still be delicious.

Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit? A: Yes, you can use fresh fruit! Fresh pineapple and mandarin oranges work well, but make sure they are sweet and ripe. Fresh fruit adds a slightly different texture but is just as tasty.

Q: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad? A: Ambrosia Salad is not ideal for freezing because the texture of the whipped topping, marshmallows, and fruit will change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after chilling in the refrigerator.

This Ambrosia Salad is a simple, colorful, and creamy dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and a lot of flavor to the table. The combination of tangy, creamy dressing with juicy fruits, marshmallows, and shredded coconut is a delightful mix that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a family reunion, a potluck, or simply as a sweet side dish, this classic Ambrosia Salad is sure to be a hit. Try it at your next event and watch it disappear quickly!