Description
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing fruit salad that combines the creamy texture of sour cream or Greek yogurt with the sweetness of mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. It’s an easy no-cook dessert or side dish perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures chilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt with whipped topping. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the creamy base that will coat the fruit and other ingredients.
- Add the Fruit and Extras: Add mini marshmallows, drained pineapple chunks, drained mandarin oranges, sweetened shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts if using. These ingredients bring sweetness, texture, and flavor diversity.
- Fold Ingredients Together: Gently fold the mixture until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy base. Be careful not to break up the fruit pieces or cherries too much during this process.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ambrosia salad for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly, improving the taste and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, stir the salad gently once more. Optionally garnish with extra maraschino cherries or nuts for presentation and an added crunch. Serve chilled.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier and healthier option.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped nuts.
- If fresh fruit is preferred, substitute canned pineapple and mandarin oranges with fresh, diced fruits after draining to avoid excess liquid.
- To keep the salad firmer, add the marshmallows just before serving to prevent them from absorbing too much moisture.
- This salad can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
