This Classic Ambrosia Salad is a sweet, fruity treat that’s so easy to whip up! With fluffy marshmallows, juicy fruits, and creamy topping, it’s a favorite at any gathering.
Honestly, I could snack on this all day! It reminds me of family picnics and happy moments. Serve it cold, and watch everyone smile with delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Miniature Marshmallows: These are a must for that fluffy texture! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using diced fresh fruit instead for added natural sweetness.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tanginess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something thicker and healthier while still keeping some tang!
Whipped Topping: This is all about texture! You can use homemade whipped cream for a richer taste or keep it simple with store-bought. Coconut whipped cream works well for a dairy-free version!
Canned Fruits: Canned pineapple and mandarin oranges are convenient, but fresh fruit tastes fantastic too! Fresh pineapple and oranges will give a brighter flavor. Adjust quantities based on what you have.
Green Grapes & Cherries: Both bring sweetness and a pop of color. If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, try halved strawberries instead for a lovely twist!
Optional Ingredients: The shredded coconut and nuts aren’t necessary, but they add texture and flavor. If you’re nut-free, you can skip the nuts or use seeds for crunch!
How Do I Make Sure My Ambrosia Salad Is Creamy and Flavorful?
Balancing the creaminess and flavors in your Ambrosia Salad is key! Start by gently combining the sour cream and whipped cream for a smooth base. Keep your mixing gentle to avoid breaking the marshmallows.
- Fold in the fruits carefully; you want to keep everything intact for that nice presentation.
- Allow some time in the fridge before serving. This helps flavors meld and give the marshmallows a chance to soften.
- Don’t forget the lemon juice! It adds freshness and brightens the overall taste without making it tart.
Remember, this salad is all about personal touch! Feel free to adjust the ingredients to match your taste and enjoy your summer gatherings with this refreshing dish.
Classic Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruity Components:
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup canned mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
Creamy Base:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery (optional for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Classic Ambrosia Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. This allows all the flavors to come together beautifully. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, start by gently combining the sour cream and whipped cream. Stir until smooth and creamy, making sure to combine well without over-mixing.
2. Adding the Marshmallows:
Next, add the miniature marshmallows into the creamy mixture. Use a spatula to fold them in gently so they maintain their shape and fluffy texture.
3. Incorporating the Fruits:
Now it’s time to add in the fun! Fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin orange segments, halved green grapes, and maraschino cherries. Be gentle to keep the fruit intact!
4. Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
If you want to take your salad up a notch, stir in optional ingredients like shredded coconut, sliced almonds or chopped nuts, and finely chopped celery for a surprising crunch. You can also add lemon juice to brighten the flavors!
5. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the salad mixture with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften.
6. Serving Time:
When ready to serve, gently mix everything again and scoop the salad into individual bowls or a large serving dish. Feel free to top with extra coconut or nuts for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy this refreshing and classic Ambrosia Salad as a light dessert or a delightful side dish at your next gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can enhance the flavor of your Ambrosia Salad. Substitute canned pineapple and mandarin oranges with fresh pineapple chunks and orange segments for a brighter taste. Just remember to adjust the quantities based on your preferences!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so you can just give it a quick stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just be sure to refrigerate it. Allowing it to sit in the fridge helps the flavors meld together even more!
What Can I Add for Extra Crunch?
If you want to add more crunch, consider including chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or keep it simple with finely chopped celery. These additions will add texture and a nice contrast to the creamy elements of the salad!
