If you’ve ever longed for a dessert that feels like sunshine in a bowl, this Ambrosia Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and sweet flavors, it’s a nostalgic treat that brings together fluffy marshmallows, tropical coconut, juicy pineapple, and tender mandarin oranges all nestled in a tangy sour cream or yogurt base. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight treat or preparing for a holiday feast, this Ambrosia Salad Recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to throw together as it is irresistible to dig into.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create a vibrant and flavorful Ambrosia Salad Recipe. Each component plays a unique role in crafting the perfect harmony of textures and tastes — from the creamy tanginess of sour cream to the juicy bursts of citrus, every bite is an experience.
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain or vanilla yogurt): Provides a rich and creamy base that binds everything together with a smooth tang.
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows (fruit flavored or white): Adds a light, fluffy sweetness that melts in your mouth and balances the citrus.
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes: Brings a chewy texture and tropical flavor that complements the fruit perfectly.
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (well drained): Offers juicy, sweet tropical notes that brighten every spoonful.
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (well drained): Introduces tender, zesty citrus segments that provide freshness and color.
How to Make Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base and Fruit
Start by combining the sour cream, miniature marshmallows, coconut flakes, and pineapple tidbits in a large bowl. Stir these together gently but thoroughly so that all the ingredients are evenly coated and the marshmallows begin softening. This first step builds the creamy, sweet foundation that makes the Ambrosia Salad Recipe so comforting.
Step 2: Fold in the Mandarins
Next, carefully fold in the mandarin oranges. The goal here is to preserve their delicate shape and juiciness without crushing them, ensuring each bite bursts with fresh citrus flavor. Their bright color also adds a beautiful contrast against the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Chill to Perfection
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously, the marshmallows to soften further, and the salad to chill just right. Serving chilled enhances the refreshing quality that makes the Ambrosia Salad Recipe a summer classic and a year-round favorite.
How to Serve Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Ambrosia Salad Recipe an extra-special touch, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top before serving. A few fresh mint leaves will also add a pop of color and a subtle hint of herbal brightness that pairs wonderfully with the fruity flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a side for grilled chicken, barbecue, or even alongside a crisp green salad. Its sweet and creamy profile is a delightful contrast to savory mains, making it a favorite at summer picnics, potlucks, and holiday dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Ambrosia Salad Recipe in individual clear glasses or colorful bowls to showcase the vibrant layers. You can also scoop it onto fresh lettuce leaves or hollowed-out citrus cups for bite-sized servings that look as festive as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ambrosia Salad Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days before the texture starts to change due to the marshmallows and fruit juices. Give it a gentle stir before serving again for the best consistency.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, so freezing is not recommended. The texture of the marshmallows and fruit will suffer and the creamy base may separate once thawed.
Reheating
Since Ambrosia Salad Recipe is served cold, reheating is not necessary and would actually detract from its refreshing qualities. Simply keep it chilled until ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Plain or vanilla yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative to sour cream. It will keep the creamy texture and add a pleasant tang to the salad.
Should I use canned or fresh fruit?
Canned pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges are perfect for this recipe because they’re sweet and well-drained. Fresh fruit can be used but may introduce more water, which can alter the salad’s texture.
What variations can I try with the Ambrosia Salad Recipe?
You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, toss in some maraschino cherries for color, or even mix in diced apple for extra crispness. The recipe welcomes your creative spin!
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
At least 4 hours is ideal to let the flavors meld and the marshmallows soften. Overnight is even better for a fully blended taste and perfect chill.
Is Ambrosia Salad Recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! Kids love the sweet marshmallows and fruit combination, and the creamy texture makes it an easy, fun way to enjoy some fruit.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Ambrosia Salad Recipe with friends and family is like passing along a little bowl of happiness. It’s fabulously easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit at the table. So go ahead, whip up a batch, chill it overnight, and watch how this colorful, creamy treat brings delight to everyone lucky enough to take a spoonful!
Print
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes prep + 4 hours chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing fruit salad made with a creamy base, sweet marshmallows, coconut flakes, and juicy fruit pieces like pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and holiday gatherings, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors with minimal preparation time.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain or vanilla yogurt)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows (fruit flavored or white)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (well drained)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (well drained)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sour cream, miniature marshmallows, coconut flakes, and pineapple tidbits. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined, allowing the marshmallows to distribute evenly throughout the creamy mixture.
- Fold in Mandarins: Carefully fold in the mandarin oranges to preserve their shape and prevent them from breaking apart. Folding ensures the fruit pieces remain intact and are evenly dispersed throughout the salad.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften slightly, resulting in a refreshing and cohesive dessert. Serve the salad chilled.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with plain or vanilla yogurt for a lighter or tangier flavor.
- Ensure the canned pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges are well drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- For a tropical twist, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead to enhance the flavors and texture.
- Use miniature marshmallows for best texture; larger marshmallows can be chopped if needed.
