Ambrosia salad is a classic dessert salad that’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. It typically features a medley of colorful fruits such as oranges, pineapples, grapes, and sometimes maraschino cherries, mixed with mini marshmallows and often coconut flakes. The ingredients are then bound together with a creamy dressing, which can vary from sour cream or yogurt to whipped cream or a combination thereof. The result is a light and refreshing concoction with a sweet and creamy flavor profile, often served chilled as a delightful addition to picnics, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
Ingredients:
1 (20 oz) can of pineapple chunks, drained
1 (15 oz) can of mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, drained mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using). Stir gently to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream or Greek yogurt and whipped cream until smooth. If desired, you can add honey or maple syrup to sweeten the mixture.
Pour the creamy mixture over the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Gently fold everything together until well coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Ambrosia salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
Just before serving, give the Ambrosia salad a final gentle stir.
If desired, garnish the Ambrosia salad with maraschino cherries before serving.
Serve the Ambrosia salad chilled as a refreshing dessert or side dish.
Enjoy this creamy and fruity Ambrosia salad as a classic treat for picnics, potlucks, or holiday gatherings