Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad
Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad is a delightful tropical dish that combines the sweetness of bananas and apples with the tartness of cherries and the crunch of pecans. It’s a refreshing fruit salad perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Pour cooled dressing over all and stir well.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned, or try substituting walnuts for pecans. If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace any creamy dressing with a vegan alternative or simply use yogurt. Make sure to mix the salad gently to keep the bananas from browning too quickly. This salad is a great side for dishes like Honey-Glazed Carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a delightful addition to a summer brunch. For an added touch, consider garnishing with extra coconut or cherries on top. This dish complements American recipes, making it a festive addition to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the bananas from browning, add a little lemon juice before storing. It's best served cold, so you can enjoy it straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad contains roughly 999 calories, with 10g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 21g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. However, add the bananas right before serving to prevent browning. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
What can I substitute for crushed pineapple?
If you don't have crushed pineapple, you can use diced fresh pineapple or even canned pineapple chunks, just ensure they are well-drained. This keeps the salad from becoming too watery. Pineapple provides sweetness and tang, crucial for balancing the flavors.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
To make a healthier version of Hawaiian Ambrosia Salad, consider reducing the amount of coconut or using unsweetened coconut flakes. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for any creamy dressing to add protein while lowering the fat content. This keeps the salad light and refreshing.
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).