You’ve heard of salads. You’ve heard of dessert. But have you heard of a salad that’s basically dessert in disguise?
Enter Ambrosia Salad—the retro potluck superstar that’s sweet, creamy, and unapologetically extra. This isn’t just a dish; it’s a nostalgia bomb wrapped in mini marshmallows. Why settle for a boring fruit cup when you can have a cloud of whipped cream, citrus, and coconut?
If your taste buds aren’t tingling yet, check your pulse.
What Makes This Recipe So Good
Ambrosia salad is the culinary equivalent of a hug from your grandma—comforting, sweet, and slightly chaotic. The magic lies in the texture contrast: juicy fruit, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy dressing. It’s also stupidly easy to make.
No cooking, no fancy techniques—just mix and devour. Plus, it’s customizable. Hate pineapple?
Toss it. Love pecans? Throw ’em in.
This recipe is your playground.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this heavenly mess:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (the glue holding this masterpiece together)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (unless you like a soupy disaster)
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained (see above re: soup)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved (because everything’s better with cherries)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened—your call)
- 1 cup sour cream (the tangy backbone)
- 1 cup whipped topping (aka Cool Whip, because we’re not making meringue here)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch enthusiasts)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Drain the fruit. Unless you enjoy a watery mess, pat those pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges dry with a paper towel.
- Mix the creamy stuff. In a large bowl, fold the sour cream and whipped topping together. No lumps allowed.
- Add the fruit. Gently stir in the pineapple, oranges, and cherries. Pretend you’re handling a fragile ego.
- Toss in the extras. Fold in the marshmallows, coconut, and nuts (if using).Don’t overmix—this isn’t bread dough.
- Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The waiting is the hardest part. Distract yourself.
- Serve cold. Scoop into bowls and brace for compliments.Or just eat it straight from the dish—we won’t judge.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Pro tip: The marshmallows will start to dissolve after Day 1, so eat fast. Freezing?
Don’t. The texture turns into a science experiment gone wrong.
Benefits of This Recipe
Aside from being delicious, Ambrosia salad is versatile. It’s a side dish, dessert, or midnight snack.
It’s also a crowd-pleaser at parties—even picky eaters can’t resist. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover fruit. And let’s be real: anything with whipped topping is basically a mood booster.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the fruit. Soggy salad = sad salad.
- Overmixing. You’re not kneading dough.Gentle folds only.
- Skipping the chill time. The flavors need to mingle. Patience, grasshopper.
- Using fresh whipped cream. Cool Whip holds up better. Save the gourmet stuff for tiramisu.
Alternatives
Feel like mixing it up?
Try these swaps:
- Yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter twist.
- Dried cranberries or grapes for extra chew.
- Pistachios or almonds if you’re feeling fancy.
- Lime zest to cut the sweetness. Or don’t—live your truth.
FAQ
Can I make Ambrosia salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it a day in advance, but add the nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Sure, but canned fruit holds up better.
Fresh citrus can get mushy. Your call.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Yep. Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt and use dairy-free whipped topping.
Boom.
Why is it called Ambrosia?
In Greek mythology, ambrosia was the food of the gods. Clearly, they had good taste.
Can I add booze?
If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of coconut rum won’t hurt. Just don’t blame us for the results.
Final Thoughts
Ambrosia salad is the ultimate no-effort, high-reward dish.
It’s sweet, creamy, and unpretentious—like dessert, but with a flimsy excuse to call it a salad. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, holiday dinner, or just because, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Now go forth and mix with confidence.
The gods (and your guests) will thank you.
