Best Ever Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia salad is a classic, sweet, and creamy fruit salad that brings a touch of nostalgia to any table. Bursting with pineapple, mandarins, cherries, marshmallows, and nuts, this delightful dish is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (15 ounce) can mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries (without stems, sliced in half)
- 3 cups marshmallows (multi-colored flavored marshmallows recommended)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup pecans (chopped)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed Cool Whip and sour cream. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Step 2: Add the drained mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Using fresh pineapple adds a bright flavor, but canned pineapple can be used if preferred—just drain well.
- Try adding a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Mini marshmallows work just as well if colored or flavored ones aren’t available.
Storage
Store the ambrosia salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if it has rested for a long time. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not freeze well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare ambrosia salad in advance?
Yes, ambrosia salad actually tastes better when made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Chill it for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Frozen fruit can be used but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid adding extra moisture to the salad.
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Best Ever Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Ambrosia Salad featuring a creamy blend of whipped topping and sour cream combined with sweet mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, colorful marshmallows, shredded coconut, and crunchy pecans. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (15 ounce) can mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries (without stems, sliced in half)
- 3 cups marshmallows (multi-colored flavored recommended)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup pecans (chopped)
Instructions
- Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed Cool Whip and sour cream. Stir thoroughly until they are well combined, creating a smooth and creamy base for the salad.
- Add Fruit and Mix-ins: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, chopped fresh pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans into the creamy mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed without crushing the fruit.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to become refreshingly cold before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, use fresh pineapple rather than canned.
- Multi-colored marshmallows add a fun visual appeal but plain white marshmallows work equally well.
- To make the salad ahead, prepare and refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor blending.
- Optionally, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Drain canned fruit thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, no bake dessert, creamy fruit salad, holiday salad, summer salad
