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Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 41 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Ambrosia Salad is a creamy and refreshing fruit salad featuring pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries, all combined in a luscious whipped topping and sour cream base. Perfect as a sweet side dish or dessert, it’s easy to prepare and best served chilled after a few hours of refrigeration to allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 8 oz whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip brand)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Fruit and Mix-ins

  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup Maraschino cherries, halved (plus more for garnish, if desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping until well blended to create a smooth and creamy salad base.
  2. Add the fruit and mix-ins: Drain the pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges thoroughly. Then add them to the bowl along with the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and halved Maraschino cherries.
  3. Combine ingredients gently: Fold all the ingredients together carefully to ensure everything is coated evenly with the creamy base without breaking up the fruit.
  4. Refrigerate to meld flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling step allows the flavors to blend and the salad to thicken slightly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with extra Maraschino cherries to add color and sweetness. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain canned fruits well to avoid a watery salad.
  • For a tangier twist, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
  • Mini marshmallows add a fun chewy texture but can be omitted for a less sweet version.
  • The salad is best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
  • Ambrosia salad can be kept refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://a-tale-of-two.com/classic-ambrosia-salad-recipe/