Easy Ambrosia Salad Recipe
I know, you’re probably thinking “Jo, what the heck are you talking about” and I know there may be some eyebrow raises. A strange fruit salad with marshmallows? Come again? But trust me! This ambrosia salad is a staple on most holiday tables! Creamy, sweet and full of a variety of bites of marshmallow, coconut, canned fruit including pineapple tidbits, mandarin orange pieces and maraschino cherries. Ambrosia is more of a dessert than an actual “salad” – but if they’re calling mini marshmallows a salad ingredient, I’ll take it! Made with a short list of simple ingredients, it doesn’t get much easier than this. Creamy, sweet and for some, nostalgic! I know the kids will definitely want seconds, and as for the adults, well, don’t knock it until you try it. I know the first time I had it, I was in love with it instantly.
Sour Cream – Can be substituted with greek yogurt, whipped cream, or cool whip, but I’ll always choose a homemade whipped topping if I have the ingredients. I like to add a bit of vanilla and sugar to it when I make it from scratch. Mix-ins – I used 1 cup miniature marshmallows, and sweetened, shredded coconut. I like the colored marshmallows as they are just more fun! Fruit– We are using a combination of canned pineapple tidbits, canned mandarin and maraschino cherries, stems removed. If maraschino cherries aren’t your thing, just skip them.
What Is Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia Salad is an American variation on a traditional fruit salad, popular in the southern states. For many, ambrosia salad consists of canned (often sweetened) or fresh pineapple, canned mandarin oranges or fresh orange sections, miniature marshmallows, and coconut. This is a dish often associated with holiday potlucks and occasionally gets a bad rap, along with the often scorned fruitcake, but when prepared correctly it can be light and delicious!
Simple And Short Ingredient List. It’s basically some canned fruit, coconut, marshmallows, and sour cream. Toss it and refrigerate, and you’re done! Easy To Make. Throw everything in a bowl, mix and place in the fridge. It doesn’t get any easier than that. Holiday Classic. This is often eaten with Thanksgiving dinner or other classic holidays. Totally Delicious And So Much Fun. What a great recipe to get your family involved. The kids will love helping to make this super fun and easy salad. Just think of all that vitamin C and fiber you’ll get and with a taste that’s delicious.
What Does Ambrosia Mean?
Ambrosia literally means food of the gods. The salad was a treat reserved for holidays and other special occasions, and named “ambrosia” after the Greek and Roman gods.
Can I Substitute Other Ingredients?
This is such a customizable salad. Try grapes, pears, blueberries, strawberries, peaches, pecans, bananas or other nuts. You can add to or substitute these very easily. Keep in mind that you should have the same ratio of fruit to sour cream or whipped topping or both. You can even add a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess. I’ve even heard of using cottage cheese instead, go figure!
Can I Make This In Advance?
Yes! It’s actually ideal to make this ambrosia salad ahead of time and let it set in the fridge overnight. It will be perfect when you’re ready to serve the next day!
How To Serve
Ambrosia is a perfect addition to a summer barbecue or potluck and traditionally served at holiday gatherings because it looks so colorful and festive. The perfect side dish!
Storing
Transfer any leftover ambrosia salad to an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Freezing
I do not recommend freezing this dessert as the texture may alter, but if you insist on freezing, place the ambrosia salad in an airtight container, you can line it with parchment for easy removal. It will last in the freezer for 6 months. Leave the Ambrosia Salad in the fridge to defrost if you would like to enjoy it fresh or serve while it is still frozen with an ice cream scoop.
More Great Recipes To Try
Enchilada SauceSweet Potato CasseroleCongo BarsCoconut Shrimp with Spicy Mango Dipping SaucePineapple Coconut CrescentsSummer Fruit Salad with Lemon Dressing
title: “Ambrosia Salad” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-27” author: “Vilma Richardson”
Be sure to try my super refreshing Fruit Dip and Peach Cobbler recipes next!
Ambrosia Salad
This Ambrosia Salad is a simple, refreshing, and nostalgic side dish recipe that is so easy to prepare. It’s perfect for summer potlucks and BBQs, but it has a special place at the holiday table well! It’s got juicy mandarin oranges, pineapples, and fruit cocktail, and maraschino cherries. You’ll also find varying textures with every bite, ranging from creamy Cool Whip and vanilla yogurt, to crunchy chopped pecans, fluffy mini marshmallows, and sweet coconut flakes! You can’t beat this recipe, there’s a place for it at just about every occasion!
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions. Use paper towels to remove as much moisture from the fruit as possible. Use a silicone spatula to gently stir the ingredients together in a large bowl until well-combined. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Storage
Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. (Leftovers don’t freeze well.)
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Silicone Spatulas– My tool of choice to gently combine these ingredients together. Mixing Bowls with Lids– Perfect for preparing this and refrigerating or transporting it until ready to serve! (I have these and love them.) Serving Bowls
