Amazing Grace Salad
A sweet and creamy fruit salad combining mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, pecans, and marshmallows, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the mandarin oranges and partially drain the crushed pineapple.
- Mix the oranges, pineapple, sugar, and sour cream in a large bowl.
- Add the coconut, pecans, and mini marshmallows to the mixture.
- Refrigerate the salad for 6 to 8 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, consider toasting the pecans before mixing them in. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can use a sugar substitute or even honey for a natural sweetness. Additionally, you can swap out the mini marshmallows for chopped fresh fruits like apples or bananas, which would also provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess. This salad is part of many American recipes, making it versatile for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
This Amazing Grace Salad is perfect as a light dessert or a side dish at picnics and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or hearty dishes like Holiday Pecan Tassies for a sweet contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or a light sandwich. Guests will appreciate the refreshing and creamy flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. However, avoid freezing the salad, as the texture of the marshmallows and coconut may change once thawed. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amazing Grace Salad contains roughly 1228 calories, with 20g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 use fresh fruits instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruits! Fresh mandarin oranges and pineapple can add a vibrant flavor. Keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fresh fruits used. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces for even mixing.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or a vegan sour cream alternative. You can also use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of sugar for added sweetness. The marshmallows may need to be replaced with a vegan version, which is becoming more readily available.
How can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, mix all the ingredients, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will blend beautifully overnight. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle at the bottom.
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).