Cloud Nine Ambrosia Salad

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A light, creamy ambrosia salad with sweet coconut, pineapple, and yogurt, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup plain nonfat yogurt
  • 1/2 cup flaked sweetened coconut
  • 20 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 20 oz. can pineapple chunks, drained

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, lightly combine all ingredients until mixed well.
  2. Chill at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of plain nonfat yogurt for added creaminess. You can also substitute fresh fruit like diced apples or berries for a twist. If you're looking for a crunch, add chopped nuts. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish with BBQ. To enhance the flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon can be a delightful addition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this refreshing Cloud Nine Ambrosia Salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. Consider serving it alongside King-Size Gingersnaps for a sweet contrast, or alongside a fruit platter for a colorful presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat; simply serve straight from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cloud Nine Ambrosia Salad contains roughly 1087 calories, with 18g protein, 222g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (160% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (107% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1010mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

1087 kcal 54% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.5g 35% DV
Total Fat 16.5g 21% DV
Carbs 221.9g 81% DV
Fiber 12.6g 45% DV
Sugar 100.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1010.1mg 44% DV
Potassium 851mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 1.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 962.2mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 75.8mg 84% DV
Vitamin D 6.5mcg 32% DV
Calcium 724.6mg 56% DV
Iron 28.8mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. Just make sure to cut it into small chunks and drain any excess juice to maintain the salad's texture. Fresh pineapple adds a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, simply replace the plain nonfat yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like sliced grapes, mandarin oranges, or chopped strawberries. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as some fruits may make the salad watery. Adding a variety of fruits will enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.

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).

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