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Ambrosia Fruit Salad

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Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a refreshing and colorful summer dessert combining fresh pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and creamy whipped or sour cream. With its light sweetness, creamy texture, and vibrant presentation, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Easy to prepare with no cooking required, this classic salad is customizable and kid-friendly, making it an unbeatable treat for warm weather.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, peeled and chopped (or drained canned pineapple)
  • 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained (canned or fresh peeled)
  • Maraschino cherries for garnish (about 10-12 cherries)

Mix-ins

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • Optional: 1/2 cup nuts (pecans or walnuts), chopped

Creamy Base

  • 1 cup whipped cream or sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fruits: Drain canned mandarin oranges and chopped pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid that can make the salad watery. If using fresh fruits, peel and cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
  2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, gently fold the whipped cream or sour cream with vanilla extract, if using. This will create a smooth, creamy mixture to blend all the flavors.
  3. Combine Fruits and Marshmallows: Add the prepared pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and any optional nuts or maraschino cherries into the creamy base. Stir lightly to coat evenly without crushing the fruit.
  4. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly for the best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh fruits whenever possible for brighter flavors and crisper texture.
  • Drain canned fruits very well to prevent a watery salad and maintain creaminess.
  • Mix gently using a folding motion to avoid crushing the fruit.
  • Chill the salad thoroughly before serving to enhance flavor melding and texture.
  • Ambrosia can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenience.
  • This salad does not freeze well due to the delicate fruit and creamy base.
  • Serve cold and stir gently before serving again if refrigerated leftover.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ambrosia Fruit Salad, summer dessert, fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, picnic recipe, no-cook dessert, kid-friendly fruit salad

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/ambrosia-fruit-salad/