Ambrosia Salad

There’s something truly magical about the Ambrosia Salad that takes me back to family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Growing up, this sweet, fruity dish was always a staple at our Thanksgiving table, a refreshing contrast to the savory dishes that dominated the feast. I remember the excitement when my aunt would arrive, her signature bowl in hand, filled to the brim with a colorful mix of fruits and fluffy cream. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, making it the perfect side dish to complement the rich, hearty meal. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the versatility of Ambrosia Salad, realizing that it’s not just for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this salad brings a touch of sweetness that everyone loves. I often find myself whipping up this delightful dish just to satisfy a craving for its creamy texture and fruity goodness. It’s a reminder that food, much like memories, is best shared with loved ones.

Everything You Need for Ambrosia Salad

Creating a delightful Ambrosia Salad begins with selecting the right ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its combination of sweet fruits and creamy texture, which together create a refreshing treat. Each ingredient plays a vital role; from the Cool Whip that adds a lightness to the miniature marshmallows that offer a lovely chew. Let’s explore these key players:

• 8 oz Cool Whip: This is the base of our salad, providing a light and fluffy texture that binds everything together.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adding a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the fruits.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, making it even more delightful.
• 4 to 6 cups miniature marshmallows: These little fluffy treats add sweetness and a fun texture.
• 11 oz can mandarin oranges (drained): Offering a juicy burst of citrus flavor that complements the creaminess.
• 20 oz can diced pineapple (drained): Adds tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other fruits.
• 10 oz red maraschino cherries (drained): Bright and sweet, these cherries add a pop of color.
• 10 oz green maraschino cherries (drained): Similar to the red ones, these cherries add a festive flair.
• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes: Provides a chewy texture and a hint of tropical flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: A crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.

Putting Together Ambrosia Salad

Making Ambrosia Salad is as enjoyable as eating it! The process is straightforward and fun. Let’s dive into the steps that will bring this tasty treat to life:

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine everything comfortably. Add the Cool Whip and sour cream to the bowl. Beat them together with an electric hand mixer for about one minute until they are well blended and creamy.

2. Next, gently fold in the miniature marshmallows into the creamy mixture. Be careful not to crush them; you want to keep their fluffy texture intact.

3. Now, it’s time to add the fruits. Toss in the mandarin oranges and diced pineapple. These fruits will give the salad a juicy sweetness that is essential.

4. Then, add the red maraschino cherries and green maraschino cherries. Their vibrant colors will make your salad visually appealing.

5. Sprinkle in the sweetened coconut flakes and gently mix everything together with a spatula until all the ingredients are coated in the creamy mixture.

6. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for that perfect crunch. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

7. Once everything is combined, you can serve the salad immediately or cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. It’s a great dish for make-ahead convenience!

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Variations about Ambrosia Salad

There are so many ways to enjoy Ambrosia Salad, and you can get creative with the variations! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Storage: Leftover Ambrosia Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the cream and fruits can change in texture once thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish for summer barbecues.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest for an extra citrus kick.
• Garnish: Top with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coconut flakes before serving for added texture.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the nuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds.

What to Serve Alongside Ambrosia Salad

Serving Ambrosia Salad is as delightful as making it! Here’s a selection of dishes you might consider pairing it with:

• Grilled Meats: This salad goes wonderfully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish, offering a sweet contrast to savory main dishes.
• Festive Occasions: Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings, Ambrosia Salad adds a festive touch to any holiday table.
• Summer Picnics: A great addition to your picnic spread, it brightens up any outdoor feast.
• Potlucks: Bring it along to potlucks or family reunions, where it can be enjoyed by guests young and old.
• Dessert Option: Alternatively, serve it as a light dessert after a hearty meal; it’s light yet satisfying.
• Seasonal Pairing: In summer, consider pairing it with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a truly delightful experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ambrosia Salad is a timeless classic that brings joy and sweetness to every gathering. Its combination of vibrant fruits and creamy textures makes it a standout side dish or dessert that everyone enjoys. I encourage you to give this delightful recipe a try, and share it with your loved ones for a taste of nostalgia. You won’t regret adding this refreshing dish to your culinary repertoire!

Ambrosia Salad

The ultimate crowd-pleaser, Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, fruity delight that's perfect for any gathering. With a blend of textures and flavors, it makes for an easy, refreshing side dish or dessert. Whether for a festive feast or a simple family dinner, you'll want to make this one tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz Cool Whip
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 to 6 cups miniature marshmallows
• 11 oz mandarin oranges
• 20 oz diced pineapple
• 10 oz red maraschino cherries
• 10 oz green maraschino cherries
• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Add all the Cream Ingredients to a large bowl, and whisk with an electric hand mixer for about 1 minute.
2. Add all the Salad Ingredients to the bowl with cream and gently fold in, until well coated in cream.
3. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover Ambrosia Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the cream and fruits can change in texture once thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish for summer barbecues.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest for an extra citrus kick.
• Garnish: Top with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coconut flakes before serving for added texture.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the nuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.