7 Cup Salad
A vibrant, sweet, and creamy fruit salad featuring pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, coconut, marshmallows, and nuts. The addition of sour cream and sugar creates a delightful tangy sweetness. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing dessert, it's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except sour cream and sugar together in a large bowl.
- Add sour cream and sugar to the mixture.
- Mix well until combined and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also substitute fresh fruit like diced apples or berries for a seasonal twist. If you're not a fan of nuts, try adding sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Make sure to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing 7 Cup Salad as a delightful side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with main dishes like grilled chicken or burgers. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light soup or an American recipe such as Old Fashioned Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become slightly watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits and sour cream may not hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 7 Cup Salad contains roughly 552 calories, with 9g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple and mandarin oranges can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the sweetness if necessary, as fresh fruit may be less sweet than canned varieties.
Is it possible to make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead of time. Mix all the ingredients except for the sour cream and sugar, then add them right before serving. This ensures the fruits stay fresh and vibrant while allowing the flavors to blend nicely.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are great choices for adding crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be excellent substitutes, providing a similar texture without the allergens.
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).