24 Hour Ambrosia Salad
A creamy, sweet fruit salad with marshmallows and coconut, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a nostalgic and refreshing treat with a hint of nuttiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream, drained fruit cocktail, miniature marshmallows, coconut, and nuts in a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to blend the flavors before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can substitute the fruit cocktail with fresh fruits like diced apples or berries for an added crunch. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a teaspoon of almond extract. Adjust the sugar level according to your taste, especially if using fresh fruits.
Serving Suggestions
This ambrosia salad is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or with brunch items like pancakes and waffles. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Somethings or can complement a summer picnic menu. Garnish with additional nuts or a sprinkle of coconut for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ambrosia salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing as the texture may be compromised. Serve chilled for the best flavor experience, and give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour Ambrosia Salad contains roughly 757 calories, with 14g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is designed to be made a day in advance. Allowing it to sit in the fridge for 24 hours helps the flavors blend beautifully. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge.
What type of nuts works best in this recipe?
Walnuts or pecans are commonly used, but you can also try almonds or macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that any nuts you use are chopped to prevent large pieces, which can alter the texture.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this ambrosia salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients. It's a delightful option for potlucks or gatherings where you want to provide a vegetarian alternative.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).