Ambrosia Oriental Salad
A vibrant, refreshing salad combining shrimp, citrus fruits, vegetables, and coconut, perfect for light lunches or entertaining with a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the lettuce in a large bowl.
- Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and sliced water chestnuts thoroughly.
- Add the cooked shrimp, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, sliced water chestnuts, diced celery, sliced onions, and green pepper to the bowl.
- Gently toss all ingredients together to combine.
- Sprinkle with flaked coconut before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes to enhance the flavors. You can substitute the shrimp with crab meat for a different texture, which pairs beautifully with Crabmeat Cheese Ball. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like bell peppers or avocado.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a refreshing main dish for a light lunch or a side for dinner. Pair it with crusty bread or serve alongside a fruit platter for a complete meal. It also complements seafood recipes beautifully, making it a great addition to any summer gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the lettuce, consider keeping it separate from the other ingredients until ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Oriental Salad contains roughly 1977 calories, with 34g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1294mg per serving (56% 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 frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the salad. This ensures that the salad remains crisp and doesn’t become watery.
What can I substitute for the water chestnuts?
If you can't find water chestnuts, sliced jicama or even diced apples can provide a similar crunch and texture. This substitution will still keep the salad refreshing and enjoyable.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance, but it's best to keep the lettuce separate until serving. This will help prevent the greens from wilting. Combine all other ingredients, and store them together for a quick assembly when you're ready to eat.
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).