Ambrosia Salad: A Refreshing & Easy Recipe for Your Next Gathering
Ambrosia salad is a classic dish, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any summer gathering. Its sweet and creamy flavors, combined with a delightful crunch, make it a crowd-pleaser. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to prepare this iconic salad. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Adjust quantities based on your needs.
- Fruits:
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained well (key ingredient for authentic flavor)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, segmented (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained (adds a vibrant pop of color and sweetness)
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (essential for the classic ambrosia texture)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (provides a delightful crunch)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened (adds a tropical touch)
- Creamy Base:
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipped topping (crucial for the creamy consistency)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to your desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the overall flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Fruits: Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to remove excess juice. Segment the mandarin oranges if using fresh ones. Drain the maraschino cherries. Chop the pecans or walnuts.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, marshmallows, pecans/walnuts, and coconut.
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Make the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream (or whipped topping) with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If using canned whipped topping, simply open and prepare as directed.
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Gently Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the fruit mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the salad to become watery.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. This step enhances the overall taste and consistency. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a healthier option: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter and tangier version.
- Add some zest: Include a tablespoon of lime zest or orange zest for an extra layer of citrus flavor.
- Fruit variations: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like grapes, strawberries, or kiwi.
- Make it ahead: Ambrosia salad can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
Why This Ambrosia Salad Recipe is the Best:
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements, making it a truly irresistible dessert salad. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Plus, it's highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and dietary needs. Prepare to wow your guests with this delightful classic!
