When it comes to easy and delightful desserts, few can rival the charm of Ambrosia Salad Fruity Marshmallow. This lush, creamy creation features a delightful medley of fruits, nuts, and marshmallows, all enveloped in a cool whipped topping that sings of summer picnics and holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a family reunion, a summer barbecue, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, this ambrosia salad is sure to be a hit! Its combination of flavors and textures makes it not only appealing to the taste buds, but also visually attractive for any occasion.
What makes Ambrosia Salad truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to feature your favorite fruits or add a subtle twist with spices. The core ingredients marry beautifully in a sweet, creamy dressing, offering bursts of sweetness from the fruits and a satisfying crunch from the nuts. This dessert is also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no baking and minimal hands-on time, making it the perfect choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. By the end, you will have a luscious treat that not only pleases the palate but also brings back fond moments of gathering around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Salad Fruity Marshmallow
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal cooking time, this dessert is perfect for quick prep.
- Endless Customization: Tailor the fruit and nut mix to fit your taste — there are no limits!
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and fruity flavor combination.
- No-Bake Delight: This recipe can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for celebrations.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making this delicious Ambrosia Salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen to ensure everything runs smoothly. Start by gathering your ingredients: whipped topping, sour cream, pecans, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, coconut flakes, and mini marshmallows. A large mixing bowl will be your primary tool, while a spatula or wooden spoon will help you gently fold and mix the ingredients without crushing the delicate fruits. You’ll also need an airtight container to store the salad while it chills in the refrigerator.
Make sure to have a measuring cup and scale handy for accuracy, especially when it comes to measuring whipped topping and fruits. This recipe is straightforward, but having a clean workspace and all your ingredients prepped can turn a good cooking session into a great one. Clear off your kitchen counter, wash all fruits, and drain any canned products like mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple; this will keep the salad from becoming too watery. Once you’re ready, you can dive into creating this refreshing dessert!
Ingredients
- 225 grams whipped topping, defrosted
- 120 millilitres sour cream
- 90 grams pecans, chopped or whole
- 310 grams mandarin oranges, drained
- 565 grams crushed pineapple, drained
- 280 grams maraschino cherries, drained
- 80 grams sweetened coconut flakes
- 120 grams mini marshmallows
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by blending the defrosted whipped topping with sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a rubber spatula to fold the two together gently until they form a smooth, creamy mixture that will be the base for our salad. This step is critical as it combines the lightness of the whipped cream with the tangy flavor of the sour cream, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Step 2: Add the Fruits and Nuts
Next, it’s time to elevate that creamy base by adding in your fruit medley. Carefully fold in the chopped or whole pecans, drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, sweetened coconut flakes, and mini marshmallows. Use a gentle stirring motion to ensure everything is evenly distributed without mashing the pieces. The goal is to create a colorful, inviting mixture that harmonizes the sweet and nutty flavors.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
After combining all the ingredients, it’s essential to let the ambrosia salad chill in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container and cover it tightly. Allow the salad to rest for at least one hour—this time is crucial for the flavors to meld beautifully. Once adequately chilled, serve the salad in small bowls or a large platter, and prepare for the smiles as your guests take their first bites!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding some mini marshmallow-flavored yogurt for an extra layer of flavor or protein nuts for a crunchier finish.
- Vegetables: For a twist, try adding chopped celery or grated carrots for added texture.
- Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to this dish; just a pinch is enough to provide flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For those sensitive to sweetness, reduce the amount of mini marshmallows or use sugar-free whipped topping.
- This salad is best consumed fresh within a couple of days of preparation to ensure the fruits stay firm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your ambrosia salad with grilled meats at a barbecue or picnic for a perfect side dish.
- Offer it during holiday gatherings or potlucks as a refreshing and colorful dessert option.
Tips
- Always drain canned fruits thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from watering down the salad.
- Consider chilling your mixing bowl in the fridge before preparing the salad to keep all elements cold and fresh while mixing.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 60mg
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure you store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.
What fruits can I use?
You can use any combination of fruits. Feel free to include grapes, bananas, or even strawberries to match your taste preference!
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute whipped topping and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, and enjoy a vegan-friendly version of Ambrosia Salad.
How long can I store Ambrosia Salad?
It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for maximum freshness, but it can last in the fridge up to a week.
Conclusion
Ambrosia Salad Fruity Marshmallow is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting reminder of sunny days and communal feasts. Its creamy texture and fruity flavors come together to create a dish that delights everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer barbecue or simply want to whip up a delightful treat for your family, this salad brings happiness with every bite. Don’t forget to try out your variations and creative twists on this classic recipe, and make sure to share your experiences in the comments below – we can’t wait to hear how your ambrosia salad turns out!
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Ambrosia Salad Fruity Marshmallow
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Ambrosia Salad Fruity Marshmallow is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting reminder of sunny days and communal feasts.
Ingredients
- 225 grams whipped topping, defrosted
- 120 millilitres sour cream
- 90 grams pecans, chopped or whole
- 310 grams mandarin oranges, drained
- 565 grams crushed pineapple, drained
- 280 grams maraschino cherries, drained
- 80 grams sweetened coconut flakes
- 120 grams mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Start by blending the defrosted whipped topping with sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a rubber spatula to fold the two together gently until they form a smooth, creamy mixture that will be the base for our salad.
- Next, it’s time to elevate that creamy base by adding in your fruit medley. Carefully fold in the chopped or whole pecans, drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, sweetened coconut flakes, and mini marshmallows.
- After combining all the ingredients, it’s essential to let the ambrosia salad chill in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container and cover it tightly. Allow the salad to rest for at least one hour.
Notes
This salad is best consumed fresh within a couple of days of preparation to ensure the fruits stay firm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Protein: 3 g