Fresh Fruit Ambrosia
A vibrant, refreshing fruit salad featuring citrus, berries, pineapple, and coconut, perfect for light, healthy gatherings or summer desserts that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the large orange, then cut the orange slices into quarters.
- Arrange the sliced orange, cubed pineapple, strawberries, sliced bananas, and coconut in a serving bowl.
- Combine the powdered sugar and flaked coconut in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the coconut mixture over the arranged fruit.
- Pour the pineapple juice over the fruit and coconut mixture.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter ambrosia, consider adding a touch of honey or agave instead of powdered sugar. You can also substitute the flaked coconut with chopped nuts for added crunch. Feel free to mix in other fruits like kiwi or grapes for variety. If you're aiming for a vegan version, ensure the powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ambrosia as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal, or alongside savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Harriett'S Strawberry Pie for a delightful summer feast. You can also garnish with fresh mint for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may release some juice, so it's best to keep it covered to maintain freshness. Avoid freezing as the texture of the fruits may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Fruit Ambrosia contains roughly 421 calories, with 2g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and 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 canned fruit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned fruit, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh fruit adds a better texture and flavor, but in a pinch, canned varieties will work. Choose fruit in juice rather than syrup for a healthier option.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the fruit and mix the coconut and powdered sugar ahead of time. However, it's best to combine everything just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming too soggy. Chill it for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring the powdered sugar is free from bone char and using plant-based ingredients. All the fruits and coconut are naturally vegan, making it a healthy, plant-based dessert option.
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).