Ambrosia salad is the delightful dish that dances on your taste buds, combining sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors with a velvety texture. Picture this: fluffy marshmallows, juicy pineapple, tangy oranges, and a cloud of whipped cream swirling together in a bowl, creating a masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes. refreshing fruit dessert option.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What fruits work best in Ambrosia Salad?
- Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
- Is Ambrosia Salad healthy?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember the first time I had ambrosia salad; it was at my aunt’s annual summer barbecue. Surrounded by laughter and the aroma of grilled burgers, I took a bite and was instantly transported to a tropical paradise. perfect for brunch gatherings This dish has become a staple at family gatherings, evoking nostalgia with each spoonful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ambrosia salad is incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute gatherings or potlucks
- Its flavor profile combines sweetness and tartness for an irresistible treat
- The colorful medley makes it visually appealing on any table
- It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round at any occasion!
I once whipped up ambrosia salad for my friend’s wedding shower, and it vanished faster than cake at a kid’s birthday party. For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Corn Avocado Pasta Salad recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious dessert to impress guests.
- Mini Marshmallows: These soft little pillows add the perfect sweetness and texture; use fresh ones for optimal fluffiness. indulgent sweet treat.
- Canned Pineapple Chunks: Choose pineapple in juice rather than syrup for a lighter flavor; drain well before adding.
- Mandarin Oranges: Opt for canned mandarins in juice; they bring a burst of citrusy brightness to every bite.
- Whipped Cream: You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, it adds an airy lightness that melds everything together.
- Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened coconut gives an extra tropical flair; feel free to toast it for added crunch!
- Nuts (optional): Chopped pecans or walnuts enhance the texture; toast them lightly for an intensified flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. A clean workspace makes cooking much more enjoyable and efficient!
Combine the Fruit: In a large bowl, gently mix together mini marshmallows, canned pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and shredded coconut. The vibrant colors will make your heart sing!
Add the Whipped Cream: Fold in the whipped cream until everything is beautifully coated. Take care not to deflate that light fluffiness too much—gentle motions are key here!
Taste Test Time!: Grab a spoonful and taste your creation. Adjust sweetness if needed—maybe add more pineapple juice or a sprinkle of sugar if you’re feeling adventurous.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let your ambrosia salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve & Enjoy!: Scoop generous portions into dessert bowls or onto plates. Garnish with extra coconut or nuts if you’re feeling fancy! Dig in and relish every creamy bite!
You Must Know
- Ambrosia Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
- This dish combines sweet fruits, creamy textures, and crunchy nuts, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- The vibrant colors and aromas will brighten up your table and your mood
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate Ambrosia Salad, start by chopping the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Mix them in a large bowl, then fold in the whipped cream gently to maintain that fluffy texture. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap fruits based on season or preference. Add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness or coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. There’s no reheating needed; just serve chilled.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe fruits for maximum flavor impact
- Avoid over-mixing to keep that delightful fluffiness intact
- A sprinkle of zest can elevate the dish with an unexpected zing!
The first time I made Ambrosia Salad for a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That glowing review still brings a smile every time I whip up this dish!
FAQ
What fruits work best in Ambrosia Salad?
Citrus fruits, bananas, grapes, and apples create a refreshing mix of flavors.
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for better flavor melding.
Is Ambrosia Salad healthy?
While delicious, it’s indulgent; consider using Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream for a healthier option.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Ambrosia Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Ambrosia salad is a vibrant and creamy fruit dish that combines mini marshmallows, juicy pineapple, tangy mandarin oranges, and whipped cream for a heavenly taste experience. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, this easy-to-make dessert brings a tropical touch to your table. With its delightful mix of textures and flavors, ambrosia salad is sure to be a hit at any occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks (in juice, drained)
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges (in juice, drained)
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients in a clean workspace.
- In a large bowl, combine mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and shredded coconut.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until well coated.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve in bowls or on plates, garnished with extra coconut or nuts if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (120g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg