This Classic Ambrosia Salad is a refreshing mix of fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy coconut. It’s like a tropical vacation in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Plus, it’s hard to resist sneaking bites while mixing. Can you blame me? It’s just that good! 🍍😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Marshmallows: They add a fun texture and sweetness. If you can’t find them, you can cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces. Or, for a healthier option, consider using dried fruits like raisins or chopped dried apricots.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened coconut gives a tropical touch. Unsweetened coconut works if you prefer less sweetness. You can also skip it altogether if you don’t like coconut!
Pecans or Walnuts: I love using pecans for their rich taste. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds are a great alternative for that extra crunch.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a yummy substitute. You can also use dairy-free yogurt if needed!
Whipped Cream: This creates a light, airy texture. You can use a store-bought whipped topping or make your own with heavy cream. Coconut whipped cream is a nice dairy-free option!
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Mix of Flavors in My Ambrosia Salad?
Mixing the right ingredients is key to making this salad shine. Start by combining the dry ingredients—marshmallows, coconut, and nuts—first. This helps distribute them evenly throughout the salad.
- Next, gently fold in the creamy ingredients (sour cream and whipped cream) until well mixed.
- Finally, add the fruits carefully to avoid mushiness. Stir just until everything is covered. Refrigerating for an hour before serving helps bring all those delicious flavors together!
Classic Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 cup seedless green grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Classic Ambrosia Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. This means a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add in the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans (or walnuts). Give it a gentle stir to combine these ingredients well.
2. Combine the Creamy Ingredients:
Now, add the sour cream and the whipped cream (or whipped topping) into the bowl. Gently fold everything together until it’s nicely mixed. Be careful not to stir too hard, or it will lose its airy texture!
3. Add the Fruits:
Next, carefully fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin orange segments, halved grapes, and halved maraschino cherries. Mix gently until all the fruit is coated in the creamy mixture and evenly spread throughout.
4. Chill the Salad:
Transfer the ambrosia salad into a festive serving bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps all the flavors come together beautifully!
5. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some additional chopped nuts and a bit of extra shredded coconut on top for that inviting finish. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful, creamy, and fruity dessert salad with family and friends!
Can I Make This Ambrosia Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just remember to add the extra garnish right before serving!
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Yes! Fresh fruit works wonderfully in this salad. Feel free to substitute fresh pineapple, mandarins, or grapes for the canned versions. Just be sure to prepare the fruit by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and draining excess juice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit more liquidy due to the fruit juices, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Definitely! You can use dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream and opt for coconut whipped cream instead of traditional whipped cream for a creamy texture without the dairy.
