A Taste of Childhood and Celebration
Every family has that one dish that shows up at every holiday, every summer cookout, and every special gathering. For me, that dish was always Ambrosia Salad. My grandmother had a knack for turning the simplest ingredients into something magical, and nothing embodied that more than this creamy, fruity delight.
I remember watching her in the kitchen, meticulously draining the canned fruit, folding in the whipped topping with a careful hand, and finally sneaking a few extra marshmallows into my little bowl before serving the rest to the family. The vibrant colors, the mix of textures, and the sweet, citrusy flavors made Ambrosia Salad the highlight of every meal, no matter the occasion.
It wasn’t just about the taste—it was about the feeling. Ambrosia Salad meant togetherness. It meant sitting around the table, laughing, telling stories, and feeling the warmth of family. Even now, when I make this recipe, it instantly transports me back to those childhood moments, filling the kitchen with the same sense of nostalgia and joy.
Ambrosia Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a tradition. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect go-to dessert or side dish for anyone who wants to add a little sweetness to their table.
What is Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia Salad is a classic fruit salad that has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. The name “ambrosia” comes from Greek mythology, where it was believed to be the food of the gods, granting immortality to those who ate it. While it may not hold mythical powers, one thing is for sure—it’s a dish that has stood the test of time.
Traditionally, Ambrosia Salad is made with a mix of canned fruits, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping, creating a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy dessert. Some variations also include chopped pecans, yogurt, or sour cream to add extra flavor and texture.
While many think of Ambrosia Salad as a holiday dish, it’s also a perfect side for summer picnics, BBQs, and potlucks. It’s cool, refreshing, and packed with flavors that both kids and adults love.
Ingredients: A Perfect Blend of Sweetness and Texture
- 15 oz. mandarin oranges, drained
- 20 oz. pineapple chunks, drained
- 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained
- ¾ cup vanilla Greek yogurt (or 6 oz. container)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 8 oz. tub Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
- Chopped pecans (optional)
Directions: Crafting a Classic Treat
Step 1: Prep the Fruits
- Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the drained fruits, vanilla Greek yogurt, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows.
Step 3: Folding in the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip using a spatula, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chilling for Best Flavor
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Stir before serving, garnish with chopped pecans if desired, and enjoy this creamy, fruity classic!
Nutritional Breakdown: A Sweet and Creamy Treat
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe requires no cooking and comes together in just a few minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a summer picnic, Ambrosia Salad always fits in.
- A Nostalgic Favorite – This is one of those recipes that brings back childhood memories with every bite.
- Customizable – You can swap out ingredients or add extras to suit your personal taste.
- A Crowd-Pleaser – It’s loved by both kids and adults, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ambrosia Salad
1. Can I Make Ambrosia Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, Ambrosia Salad tastes even better when made in advance. Letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
2. How Long Does Ambrosia Salad Last?
Ambrosia Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the fruit may begin to release too much liquid, and the texture can become too soft.
3. Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! While canned fruit is traditional and convenient, you can use fresh fruit such as:
- Fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Halved red or green grapes
- Sliced strawberries
Just be sure to drain any excess juice to keep the salad from becoming watery.
4. What Can I Use Instead of Cool Whip?
If you prefer a homemade alternative, you can use:
- Homemade whipped cream – Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Greek yogurt – For a tangier, slightly healthier version.
- Sour cream – Some traditional recipes use half sour cream and half Cool Whip for a balanced flavor.
5. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the Cool Whip with a non-dairy whipped topping like coconut whipped cream and use a dairy-free yogurt.
6. Is There a Way to Make It Less Sweet?
If you want to reduce the sweetness, try:
- Using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened.
- Cutting back on the marshmallows or omitting them altogether.
- Using plain Greek yogurt instead of vanilla-flavored.
7. Can I Add Nuts to Ambrosia Salad?
Definitely! Many versions of Ambrosia Salad include chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch. If you plan to add nuts, sprinkle them in just before serving so they don’t get too soft.
8. Can I Make This Without Marshmallows?
Yes! While marshmallows add a soft, chewy texture, you can leave them out if you prefer a more fruit-forward salad.
9. How Do I Keep the Salad from Getting Watery?
- Make sure to drain all canned fruits well before mixing them in.
- If using fresh fruit, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding.
- Stir just before serving to keep the texture light and fluffy.
10. What’s the Best Way to Serve Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia Salad is best served chilled. You can:
- Spoon it into small dessert bowls for an elegant presentation.
- Serve it as a side dish alongside savory dishes at a holiday meal.
- Use it as a light dessert after a BBQ or picnic.
Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad
- Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours enhances the flavor.
- Use High-Quality Fruit – Fresh or canned, make sure your fruit is ripe and well-drained.
- Don’t Overmix – Fold in the Cool Whip gently to keep the salad fluffy.
- Experiment with Flavors – Try adding a bit of orange zest, cinnamon, or even mini chocolate chips for a twist.
- Serve in a Fun Way – Scoop it into individual cups, top with extra cherries, or layer it in a trifle dish for a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion: A Dish That Stands the Test of Time
Ambrosia Salad is more than just a fruit salad—it’s a celebration of nostalgia, family, and tradition. Whether it reminds you of childhood holidays, summer gatherings, or special family dinners, there’s something undeniably comforting about this dish.
Its perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and texture makes it a standout on any table. And with so many ways to customize it, you can make it exactly how you love it—whether that means adding crunchy pecans, swapping in fresh fruit, or even making it dairy-free.
So, the next time you need a quick and easy dish that’s sure to please, whip up a bowl of Ambrosia Salad. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd favorite.
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Ambrosia Salad: A Nostalgic Spoonful of Sweet Memories
- Total Time: 1 hour (chill time)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, fruity classic that brings together the sweetness of fruit, the tanginess of yogurt, and the fluffiness of whipped topping. This dish isn’t just about the taste—it’s about tradition, family, and memories of togetherness. Whether it’s served at holidays, summer picnics, or potlucks, Ambrosia Salad never fails to bring joy to the table.
Ingredients
- 15 oz. mandarin oranges, drained
- 20 oz. pineapple chunks, drained
- 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained
- ¾ cup vanilla Greek yogurt (or 6 oz. container)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 8 oz. tub Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
- Chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
Prep the Fruits:
- Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Mixing the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained fruits, vanilla Greek yogurt, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows.
Folding in the Whipped Topping:
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip using a spatula, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Chilling for Best Flavor:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Stir before serving, garnish with chopped pecans if desired, and enjoy this creamy, fruity classic!
Notes
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours enhances the flavor.
- Use High-Quality Fruit: Fresh or canned, make sure your fruit is ripe and well-drained.
- Don’t Overmix: Fold in the Cool Whip gently to keep the salad fluffy.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a bit of orange zest, cinnamon, or even mini chocolate chips for a twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
