Ambrosia salad is a timeless dessert that embodies comfort, nostalgia, and celebration. Known for its creamy base and colorful medley of fruits, it has long been a staple at family gatherings, holidays, and potluck dinners. The name “ambrosia” itself suggests something divine, and this dish lives up to that reputation with its luscious texture and refreshing sweetness. The combination of whipped cream or a creamy dressing with fruits like pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, and grapes creates a delightful balance of flavors. Each spoonful offers a burst of tropical brightness, a hint of tartness, and a smooth, velvety finish. Served in a large dish or individual bowls, ambrosia salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, with vibrant pops of color against the creamy backdrop.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (drained)
- 1 cup seedless grapes (halved)
- ½ cup maraschino cherries (halved)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for tang and balance)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, depending on sweetness desired)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTION
- Prepare the fruit: Drain all canned fruits thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from thinning the salad. Halve grapes and cherries for easier bites.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine whipped cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Add sugar and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and fluffy. This mixture forms the foundation of the salad, balancing sweetness with a slight tang.
- Fold in fruits and extras: Gently fold pineapple, oranges, grapes, cherries, marshmallows, and shredded coconut into the creamy base. Work slowly to avoid breaking the fruit pieces while ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften slightly, creating a harmonious texture.
- Serve: Transfer to a large serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with a few extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut for presentation.
SERVINGS
This recipe yields approximately 8–10 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or holiday feasts. It can also be portioned into smaller cups for individual enjoyment.
NOTE
Ambrosia salad thrives on its balance of textures and flavors. The whipped cream provides lightness, while sour cream or yogurt adds depth and prevents the dish from becoming overly sweet. Marshmallows contribute a playful chewiness, and coconut enhances the tropical character. The fruits bring bursts of juiciness and color, ensuring each bite feels refreshing and indulgent.
The key to success lies in preparation: draining fruits thoroughly prevents a watery consistency, and chilling the salad allows the flavors to blend seamlessly. This dish is versatile—while the classic version includes pineapple, oranges, cherries, grapes, marshmallows, and coconut, it can be adapted to suit personal preferences. Some may enjoy adding raspberries or strawberries for extra brightness, while others may prefer omitting marshmallows for a lighter texture.
Ambrosia salad is more than just a dessert; it is a tradition that evokes warmth and togetherness. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while its vibrant presentation ensures it stands out on any table. Whether served at a holiday dinner, a summer picnic, or a casual family meal, it carries with it a sense of joy and nostalgia.
This dish reminds us that culinary delight often comes from combining familiar ingredients in thoughtful ways. Ambrosia salad celebrates the beauty of fruit, the comfort of creaminess, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. It is a recipe that endures because it speaks to both the palate and the heart, offering a taste of something truly timeless.