Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad is a delightful fruit salad that combines the sweetness of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cherries with creamy sour cream and fluffy marshmallows. It's a perfect dish for potlucks, barbecues, or holiday gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple, oranges, and cherries, then put them in a bowl.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Put in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped nuts for texture. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas can also be added for a twist. For a festive touch, try incorporating some mini chocolate chips to give it a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ambrosia Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert. It pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light snack. For a delightful brunch, serve it alongside Sour Cream Pound Cake or Soft Delicious Pumpkin Bars. Garnish with extra coconut or cherries for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. The flavors may meld together, making it taste even better the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits and sour cream may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Salad contains roughly 362 calories, with 6g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 4g 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?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruit! Fresh pineapple, oranges, and cherries will provide a vibrant taste and texture. Just make sure to prepare them properly by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Keep in mind that fresh fruits may release more juice, so you might want to adjust the sour cream quantity accordingly.
How long can Ambrosia Salad be left out?
It's best to serve Ambrosia Salad immediately after preparation. If left out at room temperature, it should not sit for more than two hours to ensure food safety. If you're serving it at a gathering, consider placing it in a cooler or on ice to keep it chilled and safe for longer periods.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Ambrosia Salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. However, if using fresh fruit, add those right before serving to maintain their texture and freshness.
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).