Florida Ambrosia
Florida Ambrosia is a refreshing fruit salad that showcases the vibrant flavors of Florida citrus and strawberries, complemented by a hint of coconut. Perfect for summer gatherings or brunch, it offers a sweet and tangy taste with a tropical twist that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Section the grapefruit and two oranges into segments.
- Slice the remaining peeled orange crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Combine the grapefruit segments, orange segments, and sliced orange pieces in a serving bowl.
- Add sliced strawberries to the mixture.
- Sprinkle with sugar if desired.
- Turn into a serving bowl and sprinkle with flaked coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For added sweetness, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar. You can also substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries. If you want a creamier texture, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt. To enhance the flavors, chill the fruit before assembling the ambrosia for a refreshing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Florida Ambrosia chilled as a refreshing dessert or a light side at your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a fun twist, include it as part of a brunch spread along with other fruits or dishes like Pistachio Pudding Salad for a colorful table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the fruit may release juice, so it's best to consume it fresh. If you want to serve it later, consider storing the coconut separately and adding it just before serving to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Ambrosia contains roughly 89 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 other types of citrus fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Florida grapefruit and oranges are traditional, you can mix in other citrus fruits like tangerines or mandarins for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to balance the sweetness if you use more tart varieties.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, Florida Ambrosia is naturally vegan as it contains only fruit and coconut. If you use sugar, opt for organic sugar to ensure it meets vegan standards, and feel free to add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Can I make this ambrosia ahead of time?
You can prepare the fruit ahead of time but wait to assemble the ambrosia until just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy. If you prep the fruit, store it in the refrigerator in individual containers.
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).