In a world bursting with flavors, ambrosia salad delivers a refreshing explosion of sweetness and texture that makes your taste buds dance like they’ve just won the lottery. Imagine fluffy marshmallows mingling with juicy pineapple, tart cherries, and creamy coconut, all swirled together in a cloud of whipped cream that could make even the grumpiest of people crack a smile. crisp cucumber salad recipe This delightful dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a party in a bowl, perfect for summer picnics or holiday gatherings.
Remember those family potlucks where one mysterious dish always seemed to be the star? For me, that was ambrosia salad. My Aunt Doris would whip it up every year, and I swear I could hear angels singing as I took my first bite. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or just craving something sweet on a Tuesday afternoon, this iconic dessert salad is here to tantalize you with its vibrant colors and luscious flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ambrosia salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- The mix of sweet fruits and creamy textures creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
- Visually stunning with its bright colors, it’s sure to be the centerpiece of any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your favorite fruits or what you have on hand.
Ingredients for ambrosia salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mini Marshmallows: These fluffy little bites add sweetness and texture; use fresh ones for the best results.
- Pineapple Chunks: Opt for fresh or canned pineapple; the juiciness brings a tropical flair.
- Mandarin Oranges: These sweet gems add a pop of color and citrusy brightness.
- Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut elevates flavor and adds crunch; ensure they are unsweetened if preferred.
- Maraschino Cherries: A classic touch that adds sweetness and visual appeal; don’t forget to drain them!
- Whipped Cream: Use store-bought or homemade; it binds everything together into creamy perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make ambrosia salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter—trust me, this will make things easier when you’re in the mixing zone.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks (drained if canned), mandarin oranges (also drained), and sweetened coconut flakes. Gently fold these together until well mixed.
Step 3: Whip It Up
In another bowl, whip up some cream until soft peaks form. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of vanilla extract or powdered sugar for extra sweetness!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Carefully fold your whipped cream into the fruit mixture until everything is beautifully blended together—no one wants an unevenly distributed ambrosia salad!
Step 5: Add Cherries
Now comes the fun part. Fold in your maraschino cherries gently so they don’t break apart too much. This adds that delightful cherry flavor we all love.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This lets all those flavors meld together beautifully! Serve chilled as a side or dessert at your next gathering.
Transfer to plates and watch everyone devour this heavenly creation! With each spoonful filled with fruity goodness and creamy bliss, ambrosia salad will leave everyone craving more—just maybe keep Aunt Doris’ secret technique under wraps!
You Must Know
- This delightful ambrosia salad offers more than just sweetness; it makes gatherings bright and cheerful.
- You can easily adjust the fruits and nuts based on your preferences.
- The colorful presentation makes it a showstopper at any potluck or family dinner.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the perfect ambrosia salad, start by thoroughly washing and chopping your fruits. Mix them in a large bowl with fluffy whipped cream and mini marshmallows. Chill for at least an hour to let flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your ambrosia salad! Swap out fruits like oranges or grapes for pineapple or cherries. Consider adding shredded coconut or nuts for added crunch and flavor that you love.
Storing & Reheating
Store your ambrosia salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. No reheating is needed; just serve it chilled for maximum freshness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe fruits for the best taste; they add natural sweetness that elevates the whole dish.
- Avoid overly watery fruits, as they can make your salad soggy.
- Always chill your salad before serving; it enhances the flavors and texture beautifully.
I still remember the first time I brought ambrosia salad to my family reunion. Everyone was raving about it, and my Aunt Mildred even asked for the recipe—now that’s a compliment!
FAQs :
What is ambrosia salad?
Ambrosia salad is a classic American dessert that combines fruits, marshmallows, and a creamy dressing. Traditionally, it features ingredients like pineapple, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows, all coated in a mixture of whipped cream or sour cream. spring dessert ideas This delightful dish often includes shredded coconut and nuts for added texture. Its sweet and fruity flavor makes it a popular choice for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family celebrations.
How do you make ambrosia salad?
To make ambrosia salad, start by combining diced fresh fruits such as oranges, pineapples, and grapes in a bowl. Fold in mini marshmallows and shredded coconut if desired. In a separate bowl, whip together sour cream or whipped cream with sugar until smooth. Gently mix the creamy dressing with the fruit mixture. Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Can I customize my ambrosia salad?
Absolutely! Ambrosia salad is very versatile. You can add other fruits like strawberries or bananas for variety. Additionally, consider incorporating nuts such as pecans or walnuts for crunch. For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream. Customize your ambrosia salad to suit your taste preferences while keeping its signature sweetness intact. For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, ambrosia salad can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. However, it’s best consumed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness and flavor. Over time, the ingredients may become soggy, especially if you included fresh fruits. Always check for any signs of spoilage before serving leftovers.
Conclusion for ambrosia salad :
Ambrosia salad is a delightful dessert that offers a refreshing blend of flavors and textures. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts, this dish always brings joy to gatherings. festive meal idea with salad Remember to refrigerate it for enhanced taste before serving. With its creamy consistency and fruity goodness, ambrosia salad remains a beloved choice for celebrations and family meals alike. Enjoy making this classic treat!
Ambrosia Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Ambrosia salad is a vibrant and refreshing dessert that combines fluffy mini marshmallows, juicy pineapple, tart mandarin oranges, and sweet maraschino cherries, all enveloped in a rich whipped cream dressing. This delightful dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for potlucks, summer picnics, or holiday gatherings. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, leaving everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained)
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- In a large bowl, combine mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and coconut flakes. Gently fold together.
- In another bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Optional: add vanilla extract or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Fold the whipped cream into the fruit mixture until well combined.
- Gently mix in maraschino cherries.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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