Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a vibrant, sweet, and creamy dessert perfect for gatherings and potlucks. Combining fresh fruits, coconut, marshmallows, and a tangy sour cream dressing, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages, making it a versatile and refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Combine pineapple, oranges, grapes, marshmallows, coconut, nuts, and cherries in a large bowl.
- Mix sour cream and sugar together; stir into the fruit mixture.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also substitute fresh fruits like diced apples or fresh berries for a twist. If you're nut-free, leave out the broken nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. For added sweetness, a drizzle of honey can enhance the flavor without overpowering the salad. To keep the fruit from browning, consider tossing apples in a bit of lemon juice if you use them.
Serving Suggestions
This Ambrosia Fruit Salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like grilled chicken or burgers. You can also serve it as a light dessert alongside Chocolate Rum Cake or enjoy it on its own as a healthy snack. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves adds a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve as it sits. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the fruit will change when thawed. When ready to serve again, simply stir to combine and check for sweetness, adding more sugar or honey if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Fruit Salad contains roughly 684 calories, with 11g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 467mg per serving (20% 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 fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just be sure to use fruits that are in season for the best taste. Fresh pineapple, strawberries, or blueberries can be great additions. If using apples, toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
How do I make this salad vegan?
To make this Ambrosia Fruit Salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. You can also replace the sugar with a vegan sweetener, like maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure that the marshmallows are vegan-friendly, as some brands contain gelatin.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For extra crunch, consider adding chopped apples or celery. Nuts like walnuts or pecans also provide a delightful texture contrast. If you want something different, try adding crispy granola or crushed pretzels for an unexpected twist that complements the sweetness of the fruits.
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).