Ambrosia salad recipe
Ambrosia salad is a classic fruit salad that’s both sweet and refreshing, filled with juicy pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, tangy mandarin oranges, and creamy whipped topping. It’s one of those simple…
Tip: save now, cook later.Ambrosia salad is a classic fruit salad that’s both sweet and refreshing, filled with juicy pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, tangy mandarin oranges, and creamy whipped topping. It’s one of those simple dishes that brings bright colors and cheerful flavors to any table, making it perfect for gatherings and holiday meals alike.
Whenever I make ambrosia salad, I love how easy it is to mix up but how much everyone seems to enjoy it. The marshmallows add a fun, soft texture while the fruit keeps it fresh and light. I usually let it chill for a few hours before serving, which helps all the flavors come together in the best way.
One of my favorite things about ambrosia salad is how versatile it can be. Sometimes I add chopped nuts for a bit of crunch or a splash of coconut for an extra tropical touch. It’s always a hit at potlucks and family dinners, and I think that’s because it’s so cheerful and comforting at the same time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Marshmallows: They add a soft, sweet texture that’s iconic in this salad. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount or skip them.
Whipped Topping & Sour Cream: The mix makes the salad creamy but light. For a tangier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or try all whipped topping for extra sweetness.
Mandarin Oranges & Pineapple: Use canned fruit to keep it easy, but fresh fruit works too—just drain well. If you want to mix it up, you can add grapes or apple chunks.
Maraschino Cherries: These add bright color and sweetness. If you’re avoiding artificial dyes, consider pitted fresh cherries or dried cranberries as a substitute.
Coconut: Shredded coconut gives a tropical twist and texture. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or swap for chopped nuts for crunch.
How Do You Keep Ambrosia Salad Fresh and Fluffy?
Mixing everything gently is key—heavy stirring can break the fruit and make the salad watery. Here are some tips:
- Use a large bowl and fold ingredients slowly to keep the fruit pieces intact.
- Drain canned fruit well to avoid excess moisture that can water down the salad.
- Refrigerate at least two hours before serving so flavors blend and the marshmallows soften perfectly.
- Serve cold, straight from the fridge. If left out for too long, the salad may get soggy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all the ingredients gently without spilling.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – great for folding the fruit and marshmallows in without crushing them.
- Measuring cups – to measure marshmallows, coconut, and creamy ingredients precisely.
- Colander or strainer – to drain canned fruit well and keep the salad from becoming watery.
- Serving bowl – to present your colorful ambrosia salad beautifully at the table.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts if you want a crunchy texture alongside the soft fruit.
- Mix in diced fresh apple or grapes for extra freshness and a bit of bite.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich salad.
- Include a handful of crushed pineapple or maraschino cherries for a sweeter, juicier boost.
How to Make Ambrosia Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved (reserve some whole for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ambrosia salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Then, allow at least 2 hours of chilling in the fridge so the flavors come together and the marshmallows soften perfectly. It’s a quick, no-bake recipe that’s super simple and refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large bowl, stir together the sour cream and whipped topping until smooth. This mixture is the creamy foundation of your salad.
2. Add Marshmallows and Coconut:
Gently fold in the miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut. Try to be gentle so the marshmallows keep their texture, and the coconut distributes evenly.
3. Combine the Fruit:
Add the drained mandarin orange segments, pineapple chunks, and halved maraschino cherries. If you’d like a little crunch, fold in the chopped nuts now too. Stir everything carefully to mix uniformly without crushing the fruit pieces.
4. Chill and Serve:
Transfer the salad into a pretty serving bowl and garnish the top with the reserved whole maraschino cherries. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve cold, and enjoy this colorful, creamy, fruity treat!
Can I Make Ambrosia Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the salad a few hours or even a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld and softens the marshmallows for the best texture.
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and cherries work well—just be sure to drain or pat dry any excess juice to avoid a watery salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover ambrosia salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine the ingredients.
Can I Substitute Sour Cream?
Yes, you can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed version, or use all whipped topping for a sweeter taste. Just adjust to your preference!