Ambrosia Salad is a whimsical delight that dances on your taste buds, combining sweet and tangy flavors in a delightful bowl of nostalgia. refreshing melon salad With fluffy whipped cream enveloping juicy fruits and crunchy nuts, itโs like a sweet embrace from your childhood.
Picture this: a sunny picnic, laughter echoing around you, and the irresistible aroma of Ambrosia Salad wafting through the air. This colorful dish isnโt just food; itโs an experience that brings people together during family gatherings, BBQs, or holiday feasts. delicious banana muffins Trust me, youโll want to dive into this creamy paradise!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ambrosia Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dish
- Its vibrant colors and textures create an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
- The flavor combination is refreshing and satisfying, appealing to both kids and adults alike
- Plus, itโs versatile enough to customize with your favorite fruits and toppings!
I still remember the first time I made Ambrosia Salad for my family reunion. Everyoneโs eyes lit up as they tasted it, and I felt like a rock star in the kitchen!
Essential Ingredients
Hereโs what youโll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious Easter dip recipe.
- Mini Marshmallows: These fluffy gems provide sweetness and texture; be sure to use fresh ones for the best results. easy sweet potato breakfast savory sweet potato wedges.
- Whipped Cream: I opt for homemade whipped cream because it adds richness; store-bought works in a pinch too!
- Canned Pineapple: Go for crushed pineapple packed in juice; it enhances flavor without adding too much sweetness.
- Coconut Flakes: Unsweetened coconut adds a lovely chewiness; feel free to toast them for extra flavor.
- Mandarin Oranges: Drain well before adding; these little bursts of citrus brighten everything up.
- Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts): Chopped nuts add crunch; toast them lightly to elevate their flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letโs Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients:ย Gather all your ingredients together on the counter. Itโs like gathering your friends before a big party โ essential for smooth execution!
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple (drained), mandarin oranges, and coconut flakes. Stir gently until everything is well-coated and colorful.
Whip Up Some Cream: In another bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. You want it fluffy but not overly stiffโlike clouds on a sunny day!
Combine Everything: Gently fold the whipped cream into the fruit mixture. Use a spatula to preserve that lightnessโnobody likes a deflated dessert!
Add the Nuts: Sprinkle in chopped nuts at the end and fold them in carefully to keep your salad crunchy.
Chill Before Serving: Let your Ambrosia Salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. It gives all those flavors time to mingle like old friends at a reunion!
And there you have it! A delightful Ambrosia Salad ready to steal the show at any gathering. Enjoy every bite of its creamy goodnessโyou deserve it!
You Must Know
- Ambrosia salad isnโt just a treat; itโs a nostalgic burst of flavors that brings joy to any gathering
- The colorful blend of fruits and creamy textures makes it visually enticing and flavorful
- Just be ready for the compliments!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the whipped cream with yogurt before adding the fruit. This ensures even distribution of flavors and a creamy texture throughout your ambrosia salad.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap fruits based on the season or your personal preference. Adding shredded coconut or mini marshmallows can give your ambrosia salad an extra fun twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store ambrosia salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; this dish is best served chilled and fresh. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To create the perfect ambrosia salad, use fresh, ripe fruits for maximum flavor and sweetness
- Mix ingredients gently to keep the fruit intact, avoiding mushiness
- Donโt skip chilling time, as it enhances flavors and allows them to meld beautifully
Sharing ambrosia salad at family gatherings always brings smiles, especially when someone asks for โthat fruity dessert.โ Itโs comforting knowing I can whip up something so simple yet delightful!
FAQ
What fruits are best for ambrosia salad?
Using a mix of oranges, pineapples, and grapes gives great flavor.
Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day earlier enhances flavors while keeping it fresh.
Is ambrosia salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Ambrosia salad is naturally gluten-free and suitable for various diets.

Ambrosia Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic charm of Ambrosia Salad, a creamy, fruity delight that brings joy to any gathering. This refreshing dish combines fluffy whipped cream with vibrant fruits and crunchy nuts, creating a colorful centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or family reunions, Ambrosia Salad is not just a dessert; itโs a sweet memory waiting to be made.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (lightly toasted)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and coconut flakes. Stir gently.
- In another bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the fruit mixture until incorporated.
- Add the chopped nuts and fold them in carefully to retain crunchiness.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg