Ambrosia Salad

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of indulging in a bowl of Ambrosia Salad, you know it’s a sweet, creamy, tropical dream come true. This retro classic has been a family favorite for decades, and for good reason! It’s a dish that combines the refreshing sweetness of fruit with the indulgence of whipped cream and marshmallows, creating a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to holiday meals, or even as a simple, satisfying treat on a hot day. Trust me, once you dig in, you’ll find it hard to stop.

Why You’ll Love Ambrosia Salad

This recipe isn’t just about mixing fruit and cream—it’s about creating joy in a bowl. The combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors is a total crowd-pleaser, and it comes together so quickly! Ambrosia Salad is the perfect side dish or dessert to bring to a gathering, and it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that you can customize depending on what you’ve got in the kitchen or to suit different tastes.

Is this Ambrosia Salad for you? Let’s see. Ambrosia Salad is…

1. A delightful balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity
2. Super simple to make and requires just a few ingredients
3. A nostalgic favorite that reminds you of family gatherings and celebrations
4. Customizable to your liking—add or swap fruit as you like
5. Perfect as a dessert or side dish, depending on the occasion

Ingredients in Ambrosia Salad

Here’s what makes this salad so special—a few simple ingredients, but together, they create a blissful combination:

Canned Pineapple: The juicy, tangy pineapple provides a tropical twist and balances out the sweetness of the marshmallows and cream.

Mandarin Oranges: These little citrus bursts add a bright, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy elements.

Mini Marshmallows: These soft, chewy marshmallows melt in your mouth, making the texture of the salad extra fun.

Cool Whip: The creamy base of this salad. Cool Whip adds a light, fluffy texture and a bit of sweetness without being too heavy.

Shredded Coconut: The shredded coconut brings in a lovely chewiness and tropical flavor that elevates this salad to a new level of deliciousness.

Cherries: Maraschino cherries add a touch of color and a burst of sweetness to every bite.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this irresistible treat:

Drain the Fruit: Start by draining the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges. You don’t want any extra liquid making the salad too runny, so be sure to give them a good drain before mixing.

Mix the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, mandarin oranges, and shredded coconut. The tropical flavors will start to mingle and set the stage for the creamy goodness to come.

Add the Marshmallows: Toss in the mini marshmallows. They’ll add that signature chewy texture to the mix.

Fold in the Cool Whip: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, making sure everything is evenly coated. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy, blending beautifully with the fruit and marshmallows.

Top with Cherries: Garnish with maraschino cherries on top for that pop of color and extra sweetness.

Chill and Serve: Let the Ambrosia Salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to marry and the texture to set. Serve cold and enjoy the tropical goodness!

How to Serve Ambrosia Salad?

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside your favorite main dishes for a sweet, creamy contrast.
• As a Dessert: Ambrosia Salad is perfect as a light, refreshing dessert that satisfies without being too heavy.
• Tropical Pairings: Pair with a summery grilled dish, like BBQ chicken or fish, to complement the sweet and tangy flavors.
• For Special Occasions: Bring this dish to potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals where it’ll quickly become the star of the show.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: You can make this salad ahead of time—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together.
• Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap the canned fruit for fresh versions, or add other fruits like grapes, strawberries, or bananas for a unique twist.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, you can swap the Cool Whip for Greek yogurt or a lighter whipped topping. You can also try using sugar-free versions of the fruit or marshmallows if you’re watching your sugar intake.
• Storage Tips: Keep your Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled.

Tips & Variations/Quick Tips

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can use coconut flakes or toasted coconut for a different texture. Also, try adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the Cool Whip for something else?
A1: Yes, you can use whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a non-dairy whipped topping as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this salad actually gets better as it sits. Prepare it a day or two in advance for the best flavor.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s just as good the next day!

Q4: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad?
A4: Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped cream and fruits might change texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Absolutely! Just increase the ingredients proportionally and you’ll have plenty for a crowd.

And there you have it—your new favorite retro dessert that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Go ahead, whip up a batch of Ambrosia Salad, and let me know how it turns out!