Ambrosia Salad with Greek Yogurt and Fruit Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing dessert that combines creamy yogurt and whipped topping with sweet fruits and crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light, sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (regular or low-fat), thawed
- 1 (8-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/3 cups mini marshmallows (fruit-flavored)
- 3/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, fold together the nonfat Greek yogurt and thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Step 4: Serve cold for the best taste and texture.
Tips & Variations
- Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- Use fresh fruit like pineapple chunks or mandarin oranges if canned options aren’t available; just drain well.
- For a lighter salad, substitute the whipped topping with additional Greek yogurt.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract to the yogurt mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Storage
Store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh as the marshmallows and fruit stay tenderest. If the salad thickens after chilling, gently stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as texture will change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Ambrosia Salad up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Stir gently before serving to refresh the texture.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the nonfat Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use dairy-free whipped topping. Ensure marshmallows are vegan, or replace them with fruit or vegan gummy candies.
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Ambrosia Salad with Greek Yogurt and Fruit Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A classic Ambrosia Salad featuring a creamy blend of nonfat Greek yogurt, whipped topping, tropical fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and pecans. This refreshing no-cook dessert salad delivers a sweet, tangy, and crunchy experience perfect for potlucks, holidays, or as a light treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (regular or low-fat), thawed
Fruits & Mix-ins
- 1 (8-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/3 cups mini fruit-flavored marshmallows
- 3/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Combine base: In a mixing bowl, gently fold together the nonfat Greek yogurt and thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy, providing the salad’s base.
- Fold ingredients: Carefully fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until all ingredients are evenly combined without crushing the fruit.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly, enhancing taste and texture before serving cold.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure all canned fruits are well-drained to prevent watery salad.
- Use fruit-flavored mini marshmallows for a sweeter, more colorful salad; regular mini marshmallows work as a substitute.
- Chop pecans finely if you prefer a milder nut texture.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 24 hours for freshness.
- Can be adapted by swapping pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, no cook dessert, creamy fruit salad, pineapple salad, easy dessert
