Frog Eye Salad

Are you ready to impress your guests with a fun and colorful dish? Frog eye salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory ingredients that come together in a refreshing and visually appealing way. Perfect for summer picnics or holiday gatherings, this salad features a unique base of acini di pepe pasta and a medley of fruits and marshmallows. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup acini di pepe pasta
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup whipped topping
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and there is no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of frog eye salad (approximately 1 cup) contains about 200 calories, 3g of protein, 6g of fat, 32g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Cook the acini di pepe pasta according to package instructions; drain and cool.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, milk, and cornstarch; cook over medium heat until thickened.
3. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crushed pineapple, and mandarin oranges.
5. Add the cooled thickened mixture to the pasta and fruit; mix well.
6. Fold in the miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut.
7. Finally, gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
8. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
9. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to combine.
10. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute acini di pepe pasta with orzo or any small pasta if unavailable. Additionally, fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries can replace canned fruits for a fresher taste.

Serving and Pairings

Frog eye salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish for picnics. It also works well as a sweet addition to brunch menus.

Storage and Reheating

Store the frog eye salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture may change upon thawing. Serve cold directly from the fridge.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not allowing the sauce to cool before mixing can lead to a runny salad.
• Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; ensure it is al dente.
• Using warm ingredients can cause the whipped topping to deflate.
• Skipping the chilling time can result in a less flavorful dish.
• Forgetting to drain the canned fruits can make the salad too watery.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh fruits for a vibrant taste and appearance.
• Experiment with flavored whipped toppings for added sweetness.
• Adjust the sugar level based on your preference for sweetness.
• Garnish with nuts for an extra crunch.

FAQs

What is frog eye salad?

Frog eye salad is a sweet, creamy salad featuring acini di pepe pasta, fruits, marshmallows, and whipped topping, known for its colorful and fun presentation.

Can I make frog eye salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare frog eye salad a day in advance. It actually tastes better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

Is frog eye salad gluten-free?

Traditional frog eye salad is not gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe.

How long does frog eye salad last in the fridge?

Frog eye salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other fruits to frog eye salad?

Absolutely! You can customize the salad with your favorite fruits, such as strawberries, grapes, or kiwi, for a unique twist.

What occasions is frog eye salad suitable for?

Frog eye salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, and holiday gatherings due to its vibrant colors and sweet taste.

Conclusion

Frog eye salad is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy and color to any table. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether enjoyed as a side or dessert, this salad promises to impress and satisfy every palate.

Frog Eye Salad

A fun and colorful dish combining acini di pepe pasta, fruits, and whipped topping, perfect for summer gatherings.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: frog eye salad, fruit salad, summer salad, potluck recipes

Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup acini di pepe pasta
• 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 can 15 oz mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup whipped topping
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

• Cook the acini di pepe pasta according to package instructions; drain and cool.
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, milk, and cornstarch; cook over medium heat until thickened.
• Allow the mixture to cool completely.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crushed pineapple, and mandarin oranges.
• Add the cooled thickened mixture to the pasta and fruit; mix well.
• Fold in the miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut.
• Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
• Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
• Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to combine.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 2g