Ambrosia(Five By Five Salad)
A creamy, fruity salad combining pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, and marshmallows, coated in sour cream. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a light dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice off of fruits.
- Place fruits into a bowl with coconut and marshmallows.
- Pour in sour cream and mix thoroughly.
- Put in mold and chill overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra crunch and flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream. Ensure the fruits are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad. This ambrosia pairs beautifully with Janet And Etta'S Pineapple Cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ambrosia as a refreshing side dish at potlucks or picnics. It complements savory dishes well, making it a great addition to barbecues. Consider pairing it with Baked Cinnamon Raisin Apples for a delightful dessert duo. Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld further overnight, but the texture may become softer. Avoid freezing, as the fruit and sour cream may separate upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia(Five By Five Salad) contains roughly 534 calories, with 8g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 6g 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 use fresh fruit, but ensure they are well-drained and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Fresh pineapple and mandarins can add a crisp texture and bright flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to keep the salad from becoming too watery.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This ambrosia is made entirely with fruits, marshmallows, and sour cream, making it a great fit for vegetarian recipes. Just check that the marshmallows are gelatin-free if you need a strict vegetarian option.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using low-fat or nonfat sour cream and reducing the amount of marshmallows. You can also add in fresh fruits like berries or apples for added nutrition, or substitute with low-sugar versions of canned 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).