Ambrosia Salad recipe has a special place in my heart. Growing up, this delightful dish was a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. I fondly remember my grandmother preparing it, her kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of fruits and marshmallows. It’s a dish that brings back memories of love, warmth, and togetherness. Today, I want to share my favorite Ambrosia Salad recipe with you, along with some tips and tricks to make it truly special.
What is Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia Salad is a classic American dessert salad made with a mix of fruits, marshmallows, and a creamy dressing. It often includes ingredients like pineapple, mandarin oranges, and coconut, making it a colorful and refreshing dish. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delightful experience in every bite.
Ingredients for Ambrosia Salad Recipe
To make a delicious Ambrosia Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh cherries or maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Making Ambrosia Salad is simple and fun. Here’s how I do it:
- Prepare the Fruits: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges. Gently stir to mix them together.
- Add the Marshmallows and Coconut: Next, add the miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut to the fruit mixture. These ingredients add sweetness and texture.
- Mix in the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract. Fold this mixture into the fruit and marshmallow blend until everything is well coated.
- Add Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts for an added crunch. This step is optional, but I love the extra texture they provide.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish: Before serving, you can top the Ambrosia Salad with fresh cherries or maraschino cherries for a pop of color.
Why This Ambrosia Salad Recipe is Special
This Ambrosia Salad recipe is special to me for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the fruits and nuts based on your preference or what you have on hand. I often switch out the fruits depending on the season or what’s available.
Second, it’s a great way to use up leftover fruits. If you have extra fruit sitting in your fridge, toss it in! Bananas, apples, or grapes work beautifully in this recipe.
Lastly, it’s a nostalgic dish that brings people together. Whenever I serve it, I see smiles and hear laughter, just like when my grandmother made it.
Tips for Making the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your Ambrosia Salad turns out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fruits enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. If you can, use fresh pineapple and oranges instead of canned.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps the flavors blend. It also makes the salad refreshing and cool.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you find the salad too sweet, you can reduce the amount of marshmallows or use unsweetened coconut.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of fruit juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Variations of Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Over the years, I have tried various twists on the classic Ambrosia Salad. Here are a few variations that I love:
- Tropical Ambrosia: Add diced mango and kiwi for a tropical flair. Substitute coconut yogurt for the sour cream for a dairy-free option.
- Chocolate Ambrosia: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate syrup over the top for a chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Ambrosia: Use different nuts like almonds or cashews for a unique taste. Toasting the nuts adds an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Ambrosia Salad is perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Potlucks: This salad is always a hit at potlucks. It’s easy to make in large batches and travels well.
- Holiday Gatherings: Serve it alongside your holiday feast. Its bright colors add a festive touch to the table.
- Picnics: Pack it in a cooler for a refreshing treat on a hot day. The creamy dressing complements the fruits beautifully.
Storing Ambrosia Salad
If you have leftovers, you can store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days. However, I find that the marshmallows can become slightly soggy over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information for Ambrosia Salad
While Ambrosia Salad is a delightful treat, it’s good to be mindful of the ingredients. Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ambrosia Salad recipe is not just a dish; it’s a memory maker. The combination of fruits, marshmallows, and creamy dressing creates a delightful sweetness that everyone loves. It brings joy to gatherings and is a reminder of cherished moments spent with loved ones.
If you haven’t tried making Ambrosia Salad yet, I encourage you to give it a go. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your household, just like it is in mine. So grab your ingredients and enjoy this sweet, nostalgic treat!