Description
Ambrosia Salad is a timeless dessert that evokes memories of potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. This creamy fruit salad combines fluffy marshmallows, tropical fruits, and coconut in a sweet and refreshing medley that’s sure to please everyone’s palate.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup heavy cream (chilled)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (regular or fruit-flavored)
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 11 ounces mandarin oranges (well drained)
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries (stems removed, rinsed, and drained)
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (well drained)
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a medium bowl, beat chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently fold sour cream into the whipped cream mixture until evenly combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, drained mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and pineapple tidbits.
- Mix and Coat: Pour the whipped cream and sour cream mixture over the salad ingredients. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the Ambrosia Salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with additional maraschino cherries if desired.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Chill Thoroughly: Ambrosia Salad is best served cold. Refrigerate it for at least one hour before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.
- Garnish Before Serving: Just before serving, garnish the Ambrosia Salad with additional maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a decorative touch.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all fruits are well drained to prevent excess moisture from diluting the creamy dressing and to maintain the salad’s texture.
- Serve in Chilled Bowls: For an extra refreshing experience, chill serving bowls or individual cups before portioning out the Ambrosia Salad.
- Accompaniments: Pair Ambrosia Salad with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish alongside holiday meals for a balanced flavor profile.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store any leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
- Stir Before Serving: Before serving leftover salad, gently stir it to redistribute the creamy dressing and ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to its creamy base and fruit content, Ambrosia Salad does not freeze well. Freezing can alter the texture and may cause separation when thawed.
- Single Serving Option: Portion leftover salad into individual containers for quick and easy grab-and-go snacks or lunches.
- Refresh Before Serving: If the salad seems a bit dry after refrigeration, add a splash of fresh orange juice or a tablespoon of sour cream to moisten it before serving.
