Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Ambrosia Salad is one of those dishes that instantly transports me back to childhood summers and joyous family gatherings. I can almost taste the sweet, tangy, and creamy concoction just thinking about it. For years, this vibrant fruit salad has been a staple at our family picnics, holiday potlucks, and even casual weeknight desserts. There’s something undeniably comforting and delightful about the combination of juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy dressing. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, from the youngest kids reaching for extra marshmallows to the adults reminiscing about their own Ambrosia memories. Every time I make it, the bowl disappears in minutes, leaving behind happy smiles and requests for seconds. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of nostalgia and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that I’m thrilled to share with you.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Ambrosia Fruit Salad hinges on the quality and balance of its ingredients. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for adjustments based on your preferences and what’s seasonally available. However, sticking to the core components will ensure you achieve that classic Ambrosia flavor and texture we all know and love. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each ingredient and why it plays a crucial role in this beloved salad:

• Canned Pineapple Chunks or Tidbits (20 oz can, drained): Pineapple is the backbone of Ambrosia, providing a tropical sweetness and a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the dressing and marshmallows. Using canned pineapple is traditional and convenient, ensuring consistent sweetness and texture year-round. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery. You can use chunks for a more substantial bite or tidbits for a finer texture, depending on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try grilling fresh pineapple lightly before dicing and adding it to the salad for a smoky caramelized note, but canned pineapple is the classic and most reliable choice for Ambrosia.
• Mandarin Oranges (15 oz can, drained): Mandarin oranges bring a bright citrusy flavor and juicy segments that complement the pineapple beautifully. Like pineapple, canned mandarin oranges are a staple in Ambrosia recipes for their consistent sweetness and ease of use. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in your salad. The vibrant orange color also adds to the visual appeal of the dish. For a more intense citrus burst, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the salad.
• Sweetened Flaked Coconut (1 ½ cups): Coconut is essential for that characteristic Ambrosia flavor and texture. Sweetened flaked coconut provides a delicate sweetness and a pleasant chewiness that contrasts nicely with the soft fruits and marshmallows. Toasting the coconut lightly in a dry pan before adding it to the salad can enhance its nutty flavor and aroma, adding another layer of complexity to the dish. Be careful not to burn it; a light golden brown is perfect. If you prefer a less sweet salad, you can use unsweetened coconut and adjust the sweetness of the dressing accordingly.
• Miniature Marshmallows (4 cups): Marshmallows are arguably the most iconic ingredient in Ambrosia. They provide a soft, pillowy sweetness and a delightful textural contrast to the fruits. Miniature marshmallows are ideal as they distribute evenly throughout the salad and are easy to eat. You can use classic white marshmallows or opt for pastel-colored marshmallows for a more festive look, especially for holidays like Easter or Christmas. For a richer flavor, consider using vanilla-flavored marshmallows. Some variations even incorporate flavored marshmallows like strawberry or fruit swirl for a unique twist.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Sour cream is the traditional creamy base for Ambrosia dressing. It provides a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the fruits and marshmallows and binds all the ingredients together. Full-fat sour cream will give the richest flavor and creamiest texture. For a slightly lighter version, you can use light sour cream, but be aware that it might be a little thinner. For a tangier flavor, you can use crème fraîche instead of sour cream.
• Mayonnaise (½ cup): Mayonnaise adds a subtle savory note and extra creaminess to the dressing, complementing the sour cream and creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best taste. While some might be hesitant to use mayonnaise in a fruit salad, it’s a classic ingredient in Ambrosia and contributes to its unique and delicious flavor. If you are averse to mayonnaise, you can try substituting it with additional sour cream or a thick Greek yogurt, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup, or to taste): Sugar enhances the overall sweetness of the salad and balances the tartness of the sour cream and fruits. The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your personal preference and the sweetness of your fruits. Start with ¼ cup and taste, adding more if needed. You can also use powdered sugar for a smoother dressing. For a slightly different flavor profile, you can experiment with using honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener, but granulated sugar is the classic choice for Ambrosia.
• Optional Ingredients for Variation: Ambrosia is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to your liking with various additions. Consider these optional ingredients to personalize your Ambrosia salad:
  • Pecans or Walnuts (½ cup, chopped): For added crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor.
  • Maraschino Cherries (½ cup, halved): For extra sweetness and a vibrant red color. Make sure to drain them well.
  • Grapes (1 cup, halved): Red or green grapes add juicy bursts of flavor and texture.
  • Strawberries (1 cup, sliced): Fresh strawberries bring a bright, summery flavor.
  • Blueberries (1 cup): For antioxidant boost and a pop of color.
  • Banana slices (1-2 bananas, sliced just before serving): Adds creaminess and potassium, but bananas tend to brown quickly, so add them right before serving.
  • Orange segments (from 1-2 fresh oranges): For a fresher citrus flavor and texture.
  • Shredded Carrots (½ cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch, especially common in some Southern Ambrosia variations.

Instructions

Making Ambrosia Fruit Salad is incredibly easy and straightforward, making it a perfect dish for beginner cooks and busy individuals alike. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quick preparation time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and classic Ambrosia salad:

1. Prepare the Fruits: Begin by ensuring all your canned fruits are thoroughly drained. This is a crucial step as excess liquid will make your salad watery and less flavorful. Place a colander over a bowl and pour in the canned pineapple chunks or tidbits and mandarin oranges. Let them drain for at least 10-15 minutes, or gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. If you are using fresh fruits like grapes or strawberries, wash them thoroughly, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. If using bananas, slice them just before assembling the salad to prevent browning.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and flaked coconut. Gently toss these ingredients together to distribute them evenly. If you are using any optional fruits like grapes, strawberries, or cherries, add them to the bowl at this stage as well.
3. Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness according to your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired level of sweetness. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved into the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture for a smooth and consistent dressing.
4. Combine Dressing with Fruits: Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold the dressing into the fruits using a rubber spatula or a large spoon until all the fruits are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad mushy. You want to gently combine everything until the fruits are nicely coated in the creamy dressing.
5. Add the Marshmallows: Now, add the miniature marshmallows to the bowl. Gently fold them into the fruit and dressing mixture until they are evenly distributed throughout the salad. Again, be gentle when mixing to avoid crushing the marshmallows. If you are adding chopped pecans or walnuts, sprinkle them over the salad at this stage and gently fold them in.
6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the Ambrosia salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly. Chilling time is crucial for the salad to develop its best flavor and texture. The marshmallows will soften slightly and absorb some of the dressing, creating that signature Ambrosia texture. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If you added bananas, it’s best to add them right before serving to prevent browning. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Ambrosia Fruit Salad is undeniably delicious, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content, especially concerning sugar and fat content. While it contains fruits, which offer vitamins and fiber, it’s also considered a dessert or side dish rather than a health food. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information for a typical serving of Ambrosia Salad:

• Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 8-10 servings, depending on serving size.
• Calories per serving (estimated): Approximately 250-350 calories per serving. This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, sweetness of fruits, and portion size.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (estimated):

• Calories: 250-350
• Total Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg
• Sodium: 50-100mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugars: 25-35g
• Protein: 2-3g

Important Notes:

• These are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. Using light sour cream or unsweetened coconut can slightly reduce the calorie and fat content.
• The sugar content is relatively high due to the added sugar, marshmallows, and sweetened fruits. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are watching your sugar intake.
• Ambrosia salad does provide some vitamins and fiber from the fruits, but it’s primarily a treat or dessert.
• For a slightly healthier version, consider reducing the amount of sugar, using plain Greek yogurt in place of some of the sour cream, and adding more fresh fruits like berries or grapes to increase the nutritional value.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of Ambrosia Fruit Salad is its incredibly short preparation time. This makes it a fantastic option when you need a quick and easy dish for potlucks, parties, or a last-minute dessert.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes draining fruits, chopping optional ingredients, and mixing everything together.)
• Chill Time: Minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight (This is crucial for flavors to meld and salad to chill thoroughly)
• Total Time (excluding chill time): 15-20 minutes

Time Breakdown:

• Draining Fruits: 5-10 minutes (active time is minimal, mostly waiting for draining)
• Preparing Dressing: 5 minutes (whisking ingredients together)
• Combining Ingredients: 5-10 minutes (mixing fruits, dressing, and marshmallows)

As you can see, the active preparation time for Ambrosia salad is minimal. Most of the time is spent in the refrigerator, allowing the salad to chill and the flavors to develop. This make-ahead nature is another reason why Ambrosia is such a popular choice for gatherings – you can prepare it well in advance and have it ready to serve whenever you need it.

How to Serve

Ambrosia Fruit Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. Its refreshing and sweet flavor profile makes it a delightful addition to many meals and gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to serve Ambrosia:

• As a Side Dish:
  • BBQs and Cookouts: Ambrosia is a classic side dish for barbecues, picnics, and outdoor gatherings. Its cool and refreshing nature is a perfect counterpoint to grilled meats, burgers, and hot dogs.
  • Potlucks and Family Gatherings: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holiday dinners, and family reunions. Its ease of transport and universal appeal make it an ideal dish to bring.
  • Alongside Ham or Turkey: Ambrosia’s sweetness complements savory main courses like baked ham, roasted turkey, or even fried chicken. It provides a nice contrast in flavors and textures.
• As a Dessert:
  • Light and Refreshing Dessert: Ambrosia is a lighter dessert option compared to cakes or pies. It’s sweet enough to satisfy a dessert craving without being overly heavy.
  • After a Heavy Meal: After a rich or heavy meal, Ambrosia provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing dessert.
  • Individual Dessert Cups or Parfaits: For a more elegant presentation, serve Ambrosia in individual dessert cups, parfait glasses, or small bowls. You can layer it with whipped cream or granola for added texture and visual appeal.
• Serving Suggestions & Presentation:
  • Serve Chilled: Ambrosia is always best served chilled. Ensure it has been properly refrigerated for at least 2 hours before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Garnish (optional): While Ambrosia is beautiful on its own, you can garnish it with a sprinkle of toasted coconut, chopped pecans, a maraschino cherry on top, or a sprig of mint for added visual appeal.
  • Serving Bowls: Serve in a pretty serving bowl to enhance its visual appeal. A clear glass bowl allows the vibrant colors of the fruit and marshmallows to shine through.
  • Scoop and Serve: Use a large spoon or serving scoop to easily portion out the Ambrosia.
  • Alongside Other Desserts: At dessert tables, Ambrosia pairs well with other classic desserts like fruit pies, cobblers, or brownies, offering a lighter and fruitier option.

Additional Tips for Perfect Ambrosia

While Ambrosia Fruit Salad is incredibly simple to make, a few extra tips can elevate your dish from good to truly outstanding. Here are five additional tips to ensure your Ambrosia is always a hit:

1. Don’t Skip the Draining: Thoroughly draining the canned fruits is absolutely crucial. Excess liquid from the pineapple and mandarin oranges will make your Ambrosia watery and dilute the flavor of the dressing. Take the time to drain them well, or even pat them dry with paper towels. This step will significantly improve the texture and consistency of your salad.
2. Make it Ahead (But Not Too Far in Advance): Ambrosia is a fantastic make-ahead dish, which is perfect for busy schedules and potlucks. Making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the salad to chill properly. However, avoid making it too far in advance (more than 24 hours) as the marshmallows can start to become overly soft and the fruit might lose some of its freshness. Overnight chilling is ideal.
3. Toast Your Coconut (For Extra Flavor): While not strictly necessary, toasting the coconut flakes before adding them to the salad adds a wonderful depth of flavor and aroma. Simply spread the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast, stirring frequently, until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as they can go from toasted to burnt quickly. Let them cool completely before adding them to the salad. This extra step really enhances the nutty flavor and elevates the overall taste.
4. Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: The sweetness level in Ambrosia is subjective and can be easily adjusted. Start with the recommended amount of sugar in the recipe and then taste the dressing before combining it with the fruits and marshmallows. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a little more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired sweetness. You can also adjust the sweetness based on the ripeness and sweetness of your fruits.
5. Consider Adding a Citrus Zest: For a brighter and more complex citrus flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dressing. The zest adds a fresh, aromatic element that complements the mandarin oranges and pineapple beautifully and cuts through the richness of the dressing. Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the citrus fruit, being careful to only zest the colored part of the peel and avoid the bitter white pith underneath.

FAQ Section

Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a classic recipe, but it’s natural to have questions, especially if you’re making it for the first time or want to customize it. Here are five frequently asked questions about Ambrosia, along with their answers:

Q1: Can I make Ambrosia Salad healthier?

A: Yes, you can definitely make Ambrosia Salad healthier with a few simple substitutions and adjustments. To reduce the calorie and fat content, you can use light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt instead of full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of added sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in moderation. Choose unsweetened coconut flakes to cut back on added sugar. Increase the proportion of fresh fruits like berries, grapes, or oranges to boost the nutritional value and fiber content. Be mindful of portion sizes, as even healthier versions are still desserts or treats.

Q2: Can I substitute any ingredients in Ambrosia Salad?

A: Absolutely! Ambrosia is a very adaptable recipe. You can substitute fruits based on your preferences and what’s in season. Fresh fruits like grapes, strawberries, blueberries, orange segments, and even banana slices (added just before serving) can be used. If you don’t like coconut, you can omit it, although it is a key component of classic Ambrosia flavor. For the dressing, you can experiment with using all sour cream, all Greek yogurt, or a combination of yogurt and light mayonnaise. Marshmallow variations are also possible – try flavored marshmallows or even mini marshmallows of different colors. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your liking.

Q3: How long does Ambrosia Salad last in the refrigerator?

A: Ambrosia Salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container. After this time, the marshmallows can become overly soft and the fruits might start to lose their freshness and texture. While it might still be safe to eat for a bit longer, the quality will decline. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume Ambrosia within the first 48 hours after making it.

Q4: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad?

A: Freezing Ambrosia Salad is generally not recommended. The creamy dressing, sour cream and mayonnaise, can separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture and consistency of the salad. Marshmallows also tend to lose their texture and become mushy after freezing and thawing. While it might technically be safe to freeze, the quality and texture will be significantly compromised. It’s best to make Ambrosia fresh and enjoy it within a few days of preparation.

Q5: What are some variations of Ambrosia Salad?

A: There are countless variations of Ambrosia Salad, reflecting regional and personal preferences. Some common variations include:

• Southern Ambrosia: Often includes shredded carrots, pecans, and sometimes even mandarin orange segments or fresh oranges in addition to canned.
• Pink Ambrosia: Uses pink or strawberry marshmallows for a festive color.
• Tropical Ambrosia: Incorporates tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or kiwi.
• Pistachio Ambrosia: Adds pistachio pudding mix to the dressing for a unique flavor and green color.
• Healthier Ambrosia: Uses Greek yogurt, less sugar, and more fresh fruits, as mentioned earlier.

Experimenting with different fruits, nuts, and dressing variations is part of the fun of making Ambrosia. Feel free to explore different recipes and find your favorite combination!

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