Ambrosia
Ambrosia is a refreshing fruit salad that combines the bright flavors of juicy oranges, sweet cherries, and crunchy pecans, all enveloped in moist coconut. Perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, this delightful dish offers a balance of sweetness and texture that will please fruit lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients.
- Chill overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some crushed pineapple or swapping the pecans for walnuts. If you're looking to reduce sugar, use a sugar substitute or omit it altogether as the orange juice and fruit provide natural sweetness. Ensure the oranges are ripe for the best taste and texture. This recipe is also great for those exploring vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve ambrosia as a refreshing side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert on its own. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Chocolate 'Stuff' for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. When ready to serve, simply give it a stir, and it’s ready to enjoy cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia contains roughly 432 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g 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 canned fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned fruit, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh fruit will provide a better texture and taste, but canned options can be a convenient substitute if fresh is not available.
How can I make this recipe more colorful?
To enhance the color, add slices of kiwi or diced strawberries. The vibrant colors will make your ambrosia visually appealing and exciting. You can also use a mix of different colored cherries to liven it up further.
Is ambrosia gluten-free?
Yes, this ambrosia recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, always check the labels of packaged items like coconut to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
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).