Icy Fruit Salad
A creamy, tropical fruit salad with coconut, marshmallows, and nuts, perfect for parties and gatherings. Light, sweet, and versatile for any celebration.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine Cool Whip, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and confectioners sugar. Blend thoroughly.
- Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, miniature marshmallows, and chopped pecans.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce with a tea biscuit or salty cookie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and reduce the amount of cream cheese. If you want to add a hint of tartness, consider mixing in some fresh berries. Ensure the fruit is well-drained to prevent a watery salad. Using fresh pineapple instead of canned can enhance the flavor, but be sure to chop it small for even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Icy Fruit Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce to add a refreshing crunch. It pairs beautifully with a light tea biscuit or a salty cookie for a delightful contrast. Consider serving alongside Cheezy Kielbasa And Kraut for a savory option or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. This dish also makes an excellent potluck contribution.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. This dish is best served chilled, so avoid reheating it; enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Icy Fruit Salad contains roughly 1494 calories, with 8g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 absolutely use fresh fruit! Just make sure to chop it into small pieces and keep in mind that fresh fruit may not be as sweet as canned options. You might want to adjust the sugar to taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Icy Fruit Salad gluten-free, ensure that any cookies or biscuits served alongside are labeled gluten-free. The salad itself is already gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you need a nut-free option or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They will add a nice crunch without overpowering 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).