If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s as light and fluffy as a dream yet delightfully packed with fruity bursts and creamy texture, this Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a nostalgic American favorite that effortlessly blends sweet mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows with the rich creaminess of sour cream and whipped topping. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just an everyday treat that brings smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is magical in its simplicity, needing only a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role—fruity freshness, creamy base, or just the right balance of sweetness and crunch that makes every spoonful special.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides a creamy, tangy base that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Adds lightness and fluffy texture to the salad.
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained: Offers juicy bursts of citrus flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained: Brings tropical sweetness and moist texture without excess liquid.
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows: Creates a soft, chewy contrast that’s pure fun in every bite.
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Adds subtle crunch and tropical aroma.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained: Gives a pop of bright red color and cherry sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Introduces a nutty crunch for texture variety.
How to Make Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
Begin by whisking together the sour cream and whipped topping in a large mixing bowl until you have a smooth, luscious blend that will hold all ingredients together gently without being too heavy.
Step 2: Fold in the Fruits and Marshmallows
Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple, making sure not to mash them. Then, add the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut, which will give your salad that playful texture and sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Final Touches
Next, stir in the halved maraschino cherries for their color and flavor, along with the chopped nuts if you’re using them. This step completes the beautiful mix of texture and taste.
Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover your bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial as it allows all the flavors to marry and the marshmallows to soften perfectly into the creamy dressing.
Step 5: Serve with a Gentle Stir
Give the salad a gentle stir just before serving to redistribute any settling ingredients. Your Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make your ambrosia truly pop at the table, consider topping it with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut, a few whole maraschino cherries, or even a dusting of finely chopped toasted nuts. These garnishes add a festive look and tantalizing texture right on top.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains, from classic roast chicken to grilled fish, or even as a sweet side for barbecue plates. Its refreshing nature provides a perfect palate cleanser and a light counterpoint to heavier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe in individual clear glass cups or hollowed-out citrus shells. This not only makes each serving special but also showcases the colorful layers and textures, inviting your guests to dig in eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ambrosia salad can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other odors from your fridge.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing because the cream base and marshmallows lose their creamy and soft texture upon thawing. It is better enjoyed fresh or well-chilled.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook salad served chilled, reheating is not necessary and would compromise its texture and flavor. Serve directly from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Using Greek yogurt is a great way to add a boost of protein and tang while keeping the salad creamy. Just be sure to choose plain yogurt to avoid extra sweetness.
Is it necessary to drain the canned fruit?
Yes, draining both the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple is important to prevent your salad from becoming watery and losing its ideal fluffy texture.
Are the nuts really optional?
Definitely. Nuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, but if you have allergies or prefer a smoother salad, leaving them out still results in a delicious dish.
How far in advance can I make this salad?
You can prepare the Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe up to a day ahead. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture and redistribute the ingredients.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
Yes! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully and adds a wonderful homemade touch. Just be sure it’s whipped to soft peaks so the salad maintains its lightness.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that brings joyful nostalgia with every spoonful. Whether you’re sharing it at a festive occasion or enjoying it as a cozy treat at home, it’s an easy-to-make, charmingly sweet salad that feels like a hug in a bowl. Give it a try and spread some ambrosial happiness around your table!
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Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, sweet, and tangy fruit salad featuring mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries folded into sour cream and whipped topping. This easy no-cook dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a nostalgic treat that refreshes and delights with a luscious, creamy texture.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Fruit and Add-ins
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Fold in fruits and extras: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, drained crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts if using. Mix carefully to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften slightly.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the salad gently to redistribute any settled ingredients. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture of the salad.
- For a lighter version, use light sour cream and light whipped topping.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to add protein and tanginess.
- Ensure all canned fruits are well drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
