Ambrosia Salad with Greek Yogurt and Fruit Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. It combines creamy yogurt and whipped topping with sweet fruits, marshmallows, and nuts for a delightful texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (regular or low-fat), thawed
- 1 8-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/3 cups mini marshmallows (fruit-flavored)
- 3/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, fold together the nonfat Greek yogurt and thawed whipped topping until smooth.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly combined.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.
- Step 4: Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- Substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.
- Use fresh fruit instead of canned for a fresher taste, just be sure to drain well.
- For a sweeter salad, drain the fruit less or add a drizzle of honey.
Storage
Store Ambrosia Salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The marshmallows may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day. Serve cold, and stir gently before serving if separation occurs.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best to make it a few hours ahead or the day before to let the flavors meld. However, keep it refrigerated and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, you can substitute freshly whipped cream or canned whipped cream, but whipped topping tends to hold its shape better in this salad.
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Ambrosia Salad with Greek Yogurt and Fruit Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing fruit salad made with a creamy Greek yogurt and whipped topping base mixed with tropical fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and pecans. This no-cook salad is perfect for potlucks, holiday meals, or as a light, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (regular or low-fat), thawed
Fruits and Mix-ins
- 1 (8-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/3 cups mini fruit-flavored marshmallows
- 3/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Combine base: In a large mixing bowl, fold together the nonfat plain Greek yogurt and thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Fold ingredients: Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries, followed by the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until all the ingredients are evenly combined without crushing the fruits.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
- Serve: After chilling, serve the Ambrosia Salad cold for the best taste and refreshing texture.
Notes
- Use frozen whipped topping rather than fresh whipped cream for better stability and texture.
- Make sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Mini marshmallows are typically fruit-flavored and add a sweet, chewy texture to the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, Greek yogurt salad, easy no-cook dessert, potluck salad, holiday salad
