Ambrosia Mold Salad
Ambrosia Mold Salad is a delightful retro dessert featuring sweet marshmallows, shredded coconut, tangy orange jell-o, fresh orange segments, and juicy pineapple. Its light, fruity flavor makes it perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion needing a nostalgic, refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple and save the juices.
- Add cold water to the pineapple juice to measure 1 cup.
- Stir 2 cups of boiling water into the orange jell-o powder until dissolved.
- Stir in the pineapple juice mixture and the remaining juice and water.
- Refrigerate until the mixture slightly jells, about 1-2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of whipped cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before refrigerating. You can substitute the orange jell-o with another flavor like lemon or lime for a different twist. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using unsweetened coconut or adding chopped nuts for added crunch. For added freshness, include some mint leaves before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ambrosia Mold Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert at picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a light salad like Romaine Spinach Orange Salad. You can also garnish with additional orange segments or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture may change slightly as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing this salad as the gelatin may separate and the fruit can become mushy when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Mold Salad contains roughly 301 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 5g 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 fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just ensure that any fresh fruit, like oranges or pineapple, is well-drained to prevent excess liquid from affecting the jell-o set. Be mindful that some fruits, like bananas, may not hold up well in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Ambrosia Mold Salad vegan, simply use a plant-based gelatin substitute instead of traditional jell-o. There are several vegan jell-o options available that will work just as well. Also, ensure that any whipped topping used is dairy-free.
What if my jell-o doesn't set properly?
If your jell-o doesn't set, it may be due to not enough chilling time or the ratio of liquids. Make sure to follow the instructions closely and allow sufficient time in the refrigerator. If it remains unset, you can try adding more gelatin or serving it as a pudding instead.
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).