Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, creamy fruit salad that’s both sweet and refreshing. With a mix of marshmallows, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and toasted pecans, it makes a perfect side dish or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, gently toss together the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2: Add the mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. It can be chilled up to overnight before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier flavor and added protein.
- To make it more colorful, add sliced grapes or chopped apples.
- Lightly dust the toasted pecans with cinnamon for a warm spice note.
Storage
Store the Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to redistribute any settled ingredients. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become watery when thawed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
How can I prevent the marshmallows from sticking together?
Toss the mini marshmallows with a small amount of cornstarch before mixing them into the salad to keep them from clumping.
Print
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing dessert salad featuring a creamy blend of Cool Whip and sour cream mixed with sweet mandarin oranges, fresh pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans. Perfectly chilled, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make it a beloved dish for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss together the Cool Whip and sour cream until well blended to create a creamy base.
- Add Fruits and Mix-ins: Add the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, chopped fresh pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly without breaking the fruit pieces.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and to chill thoroughly. It can be refrigerated for up to overnight for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use freshly toasted pecans rather than pre-packaged ones.
- The salad can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld better.
- Drain canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
- Can be customized by swapping pecans for walnuts or leaving out nuts for a nut-free version.
- Serve chilled, as this salad is best enjoyed cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, creamy salad, potluck recipe, holiday dessert, no bake dessert
