Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a timeless classic, blending luscious flavors and vibrant colors to create a refreshing treat that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. A creamy base of whipped cream or yogurt is paired with tropical fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges, sweetened coconut, fluffy marshmallows, and a sprinkle of maraschino cherries for that perfect finishing touch. Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or potluck favorite, Ambrosia Salad brings an irresistible charm to any table.
I’ll never forget the first time I made this. As I mixed the whipped cream and fruits, the bright, cheerful hues reminded me of family gatherings during the holidays, when dishes like this took center stage. The creamy sweetness, combined with the gentle tang of the fruits and the soft marshmallows, made each bite a little trip down memory lane. Watching my loved ones enjoy it, their faces lighting up at the familiar taste, made the experience all the more special.
What’s lovely about this recipe is its flexibility. Add pecans for a crunchy contrast, swap out marshmallows for a healthier twist, or include different fruits to suit the season. Ambrosia Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of sharing food with those who matter most.
Perfect For
Ambrosia Salad is an ideal dish for picnics, barbecues, festive holidays, or when you want to serve an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully Sweet
- This ambrosia salad is a perfect blend of natural sweetness from fresh fruits, complemented by a hint of creamy richness. The combination of fruit juices, sweet mini marshmallows, and the smooth, fluffy dressing creates an irresistible dessert that’s light yet indulgent. Every bite is a refreshing, sweet treat that satisfies your cravings without being overly heavy.
- Quick to Make
- You can whip up this ambrosia salad in just 15 minutes, making it a fantastic option for last-minute gatherings or when you’re short on time. The simplicity of this recipe means you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, yet it still delivers a delicious and visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.
- No Cooking Required
- One of the best parts of this ambrosia salad is that there’s no cooking involved, making it a hassle-free dessert option. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof. It’s perfect for beginner cooks and can even be prepared by kids with minimal supervision.
- Customizable Ingredients
- Ambrosia salad is wonderfully versatile. You can tailor the fruits to your preferences by adding berries, citrus, or tropical fruits. Want to control the level of sweetness? Simply adjust the amount of marshmallows or add a bit more cream or sweetener. This adaptability allows you to make the salad just right for your taste or to match the season, whether you’re in the mood for citrusy zing or summer berry bursts.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour (optional)
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories Per Serving: 180 calories
- Key Nutrients Per Serving:
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
Ingredients
For the Ambrosia Salad:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
Ingredient Highlights
- Marshmallows: Add fluffiness and sweetness to the salad.
- Mandarin Oranges & Pineapple: Provide a bright, tropical flavor.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Balances the sweetness with a creamy tang.
- Shredded Coconut: Adds texture and enhances the tropical flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions
For the Ambrosia Salad:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain all canned fruits thoroughly to prevent excess liquid. Halve the maraschino cherries for easier mixing and presentation.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt with powdered sugar (if using) until smooth.
- Combine the Salad: Gently fold in the marshmallows, oranges, pineapple, cherries, and coconut. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra cherries or shredded coconut, if desired.
How to Serve
Serve Ambrosia Salad chilled in a large bowl or individual dessert cups for a more elegant presentation. This dish pairs well with summer barbecue meals or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dessert.
Additional Tips
- Drain the Fruits Well: Excess moisture can make the salad runny. Use a sieve or pat the fruits dry with paper towels.
- Lighten it Up: Replace sour cream with a mix of Greek yogurt and whipped cream for a lower-calorie version.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of citrus zest for extra flavor depth.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Ambrosia
- For a delightful crunch and a rich nutty flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the ambrosia salad. These nuts pair wonderfully with the creamy elements of the salad, enhancing both texture and taste. Toasting the nuts before mixing them in can also bring out an extra layer of flavor, adding warmth and depth to each bite. This variation is perfect for those who love the combination of smooth and crunchy in their salads.
- No-Coconut Version
- If you’re not a fan of coconut or need to accommodate dietary preferences, simply replace the shredded coconut with more mini marshmallows for a sweeter, fluffier texture. Alternatively, slivered almonds can add a mild nutty flavor and provide a slightly crunchier texture, making for a lighter alternative without sacrificing the salad’s signature creaminess. This version still maintains the classic ambrosia charm while catering to different tastes.
- Berry Bliss
- For a fresh, vibrant twist, incorporate fresh berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries into your ambrosia salad. These berries not only add a burst of color but also bring a hint of tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and fruit. The addition of berries elevates this salad, giving it a refreshing and slightly tangy contrast to the traditional sweetness, perfect for spring and summer gatherings. You can also experiment with different berry blends to tailor the flavor to your liking!
Freezing and Storage
- Storage
- To keep ambrosia salad fresh for longer, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain good for up to 3 days. The salad may separate or the creaminess can become slightly diluted as the fruit releases moisture, so be sure to stir it gently before serving again to redistribute the ingredients and restore its smooth texture. For optimal taste and texture, try to consume within the first couple of days.
- Freezing
- While ambrosia salad is a convenient make-ahead dish, freezing is not recommended due to the change in texture of the fruits and marshmallows. After thawing, the fruits may become soggy, and the marshmallows may lose their fluffy structure, resulting in a watery and less desirable consistency. To ensure the freshest flavors and textures, it’s best to enjoy this salad right after it’s prepared or store it refrigerated for a short time.
Special Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- A large mixing bowl is essential for bringing together all of the ingredients in your ambrosia salad. The bowl needs to be spacious enough to easily mix the fruit, marshmallows, and cream without overflows or spills. Opt for a glass or stainless steel bowl for a durable and easy-to-clean option. A glass bowl also allows you to visually check the salad’s consistency as you mix.
- Spatula for Gentle Folding
- A silicone or rubber spatula is ideal for folding the ingredients together without damaging the delicate fruits or breaking the mini marshmallows. The flexible, smooth surface of the spatula helps gently incorporate the creamy dressing into the fruit mixture, ensuring the textures remain intact and nothing is overworked. It’s especially helpful when handling a mixture with fluffy marshmallows and soft fruit, preserving the airy, light quality of the salad.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the salad a day in advance and refrigerate it to enhance the flavors.
Q: Can I use whipped topping instead of sour cream?
A: Absolutely! Whipped topping adds extra sweetness and lightness to the dish.
Q: Is Ambrosia Salad gluten-free?
A: Most versions are naturally gluten-free, but always check the ingredient labels, especially for marshmallows and shredded coconut.
Conclusion
Ambrosia Salad is a light, creamy, and refreshing dish that combines tropical fruits with a touch of sweetness. A perfect side dish or dessert, it is often served at gatherings, picnics, or holiday celebrations. Its vibrant colors and delightful textures, with a mix of marshmallows, fruit, and coconut, make it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
This versatile salad is easy to prepare and can be tailored with various fruits and toppings to suit personal preferences. Whether made with pineapples, oranges, or a blend of both, or topped with nuts and a hint of vanilla, Ambrosia Salad is guaranteed to add a sweet touch to any meal.
Whip up a bowl today, and enjoy the fresh and tropical flavors! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creation and share it—tag me so we can all enjoy your success! Happy salad making!