Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Indulge in the refreshing taste of ambrosia fruit salad, a delightful mix of sweet fruits and creamy goodness. This classic dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect as a side dish or a dessert, ambrosia fruit salad is sure to impress at your next gathering. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this fruity masterpiece!
Ingredients
– 1 cup miniature marshmallows
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of ambrosia fruit salad contains approximately 150 calories, 3g of protein, 5g of fat, 26g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine miniature marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries.
2. Add shredded coconut to the fruit mixture and gently fold to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the fruit and marshmallows.
5. Carefully stir to coat all the fruit evenly with the dressing.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
8. Serve chilled in individual bowls or a large serving dish.
9. Garnish with additional cherries or coconut if desired.
10. Enjoy your refreshing ambrosia fruit salad!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Additionally, fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas can replace canned fruits. For a tropical twist, consider adding mango or kiwi.
Serving and Pairings
Ambrosia fruit salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecues, or as a refreshing dessert after a rich meal. It’s also great alongside brunch items like pancakes and waffles.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served fresh, and it’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture may become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using canned fruit without draining fully can make the salad too watery.
- Not chilling the salad before serving may affect its refreshing taste.
- Overmixing can break down the fruit and marshmallows.
- Leaving out the coconut can change the traditional flavor profile.
- Forgetting to adjust sweetness can lead to an unbalanced flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh fruits when possible for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of nuts for added crunch.
- Make it a day ahead for flavors to meld together.
- Opt for low-fat options for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I make ambrosia fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and stir before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What fruits work best in ambrosia salad?
Common fruits include pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cherries. You can also add grapes, strawberries, or kiwi for variety.
Is ambrosia salad a dessert or a side dish?
Ambrosia salad can be enjoyed as both! It’s sweet enough to be a dessert but also pairs well with savory dishes.
Can I use whipped cream instead of sour cream?
Yes, whipped cream can be used for a sweeter version, but it will alter the traditional tangy flavor.
How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?
It typically lasts for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Ambrosia fruit salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the sweetness of fruits and a creamy dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is easy to prepare and sure to please your guests. Enjoy this refreshing treat at your next gathering!
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 cup mandarin oranges drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine miniature marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries.
- Add shredded coconut to the fruit mixture and gently fold to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the fruit and marshmallows.
- Carefully stir to coat all the fruit evenly with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve chilled in individual bowls or a large serving dish.
- Garnish with additional cherries or coconut if desired.
- Enjoy your refreshing ambrosia fruit salad!
