This Classic Ambrosia Salad is a fun and fruity mix of fluffy marshmallows, sweet pineapple, and juicy mandarin oranges. It’s like a party in a bowl!
I love how this salad brings a burst of color to the table. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Just toss everything together and enjoy a refreshing sweet treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Marshmallows: These lend a delightful sweetness and soft texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using dried fruit instead, like raisins or cranberries, for added chewiness.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds a tropical twist. If you’re a fan of coconut but want a healthier choice, go for unsweetened coconut. You can also swap this out with crushed graham crackers for a different flavor.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple offers a juicy bite, but canned works just as well. If you’re avoiding pineapple, you can replace it with diced peaches or apples for a different fruity base.
Mandarin Oranges: These little segments add sweetness and a burst of citrus. If they’re hard to find, try using regular oranges, tangerines, or even canned peaches.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts provide crunch. If you want to keep it nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great alternative.
Sour Cream or Whipped Topping: Both create a creamy base for the salad. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, yogurt can substitute well here, especially Greek yogurt for added protein.
How Do I Properly Combine Everything Without Making a Mess?
Mixing this salad is simple, but it’s important to do it gently to avoid crushing the fruits and marshmallows. Here’s how:
- Start by placing your marshmallows and coconut in a large bowl.
- Next, add the diced pineapple, mandarin oranges, and halved grapes, ensuring that the fruits are fully drained if using canned.
- For the best results, fold in the sour cream or whipped topping slowly. Use a spatula or spoon and scoop from the bottom gently to maintain the structure of the ingredients.
- If including maraschino cherries, add them last to keep them intact during mixing.
- Finally, cover and chill. This allows everything to meld nicely together, enhancing the flavors!
Classic Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup sour cream or whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Optional: 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you should let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Fruits and Marshmallows:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, toss together the mini marshmallows, sweetened shredded coconut, diced pineapple, mandarin oranges, red grapes, green grapes, and the chopped pecans or walnuts. Mix gently to combine, but be careful not to crush the fruit!
2. Adding the Creamy Base:
Next, take your sour cream or whipped topping and fold it into the mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon and scoop from the bottom to the top, gently mixing until everything is coated in the creamy goodness.
3. Adding Optional Cherries:
If you’re using maraschino cherries, now’s the time to fold them in. This step is optional, but they add a lovely touch of color and sweet flavor!
4. Chill the Salad:
Once everything is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This will let the flavors mingle and the marshmallows soften, making for a deliciously refreshing salad.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. Scoop it into a decorative bowl or individual cups for a lovely presentation. Enjoy this classic, sweet, and fruity ambrosia salad with family and friends!
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit is a great choice and adds a delicious texture to the salad. Just make sure to peel and dice any fruit that needs it, like fresh pineapples and oranges.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a little stir before serving to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by substituting whipped topping for a dairy-free alternative and using a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just remember to keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. The flavors actually improve as they have time to meld!
