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Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia Salad
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Ambrosia Salad is a bright, refreshing, and easy-to-make summer dessert salad combining sweet tropical and citrus fruits, creamy textures, and a touch of crunch. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light treat, it features pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and a smooth creamy base, garnished with maraschino cherries and optional nuts. This vibrant, versatile dish can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or well-drained canned pineapple)
  • 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained (canned or fresh)
  • Maraschino cherries for garnish (about 10-12 cherries)

Creamy Base

  • 1 cup whipped cream or sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fruits: Drain the canned mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks thoroughly to avoid excess liquid. Chop any larger pieces of fruit into bite-sized chunks for easier eating.
  2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, gently fold together the whipped cream or sour cream with vanilla extract if using, creating a smooth, creamy mixture to bind the salad.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the prepared pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using) into the creamy base. Fold everything gently to coat evenly without crushing the fruit or marshmallows.
  4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the textures to soften slightly, serving a perfectly chilled dessert.

Notes

  • Drain fruit well to prevent excess liquid and soggy texture.
  • Use fresh fruit whenever possible for enhanced flavor and appearance.
  • Fold ingredients gently to maintain the integrity of fruit pieces and marshmallows.
  • Refrigerate for a minimum of one hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying mini marshmallows or adding a drizzle of honey if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, summer dessert, fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, easy dessert, picnic dish, potluck recipe, tropical salad

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/ambrosia-salad/