Description

Classic Ambrosia Salad is a refreshing, sweet, and creamy fruit salad combining juicy pineapple, tangy mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, miniature marshmallows, and maraschino cherries, all enveloped in a luscious creamy dressing. This timeless dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a versatile side or dessert, delivering a nostalgic flavor and delightful texture with minimal preparation and no cooking required.

Ingredients

Fruits

Canned Pineapple Chunks (1 can, drained)
Mandarin Oranges (1 can, drained)
Maraschino Cherries (for garnish, about 8-10 cherries)

Add-Ins

Miniature Marshmallows (1 cup)
Shredded Coconut (1/2 cup)

Creamy Dressing

Whipped Cream or Miracle Whip (1 cup)
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional, 1/2 cup)

Instructions

Prepare Your Fruits: Drain the canned pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges thoroughly to keep the salad from becoming watery. Chop any large fruit pieces for bite-sized consistency, then place all fruits into a large mixing bowl.
Add the Marshmallows and Coconut: Gently fold in miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut ensuring even distribution for the classic chewy texture and tropical flavor.
Mix the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine whipped cream or Miracle Whip with sour cream or Greek yogurt if using. Stir until smooth and well blended to create the luscious creamy base.
Combine All Ingredients: Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture and gently fold everything together, coating every piece without crushing the fruit.
Chill and Garnish: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to develop flavors. Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries for color and classic presentation.

Notes

Use fresh or thawed frozen fruit if canned is not available.
Properly drain fruits to keep the salad fluffy and avoid sogginess.
Chill the salad for an hour or more for the best flavor melding.
Fold ingredients gently to maintain texture.
Customize the cream base by adjusting whipped cream and sour cream ratios.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing is not recommended due to texture and flavor changes upon thawing.
This salad is naturally gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: ambrosia salad, classic ambrosia, fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, potluck recipe, easy side dish, gluten free dessert