Low-Calorie Ambrosia
A light, fruity dessert combining creamy yogurt with tropical fruits and shredded coconut, perfect for a healthy, refreshing treat suitable for all ages and occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the vanilla yogurt, shredded coconut, pineapple chunks, sliced bananas, and drained mandarin oranges in a bowl.
- Chill the mixture for several hours or overnight to develop flavors.
- Serve in a pretty bowl and garnish with seedless grapes and maraschino cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. You can swap pineapple with other fruits like mango or berries for different flavor profiles. If you want to add some crunch, try adding chopped nuts or sunflower seeds. This dish can also be made with variations like those found in vegetarian recipes for added creativity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ambrosia chilled for a refreshing dessert or snack. It pairs beautifully with Greens With Coconut Milk for a tropical-themed meal. For added flair, consider garnishing with maraschino cherries along with the grapes, or lay it out as part of a buffet spread during gatherings. It's perfect for potlucks or summer picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit may release some juice, but this adds to the flavor. Avoid freezing as the texture of the yogurt and fruit can become compromised. To serve leftovers, give the mixture a gentle stir to recombine the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Calorie Ambrosia contains roughly 430 calories, with 7g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 10g 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 different types of yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture, or opt for a dairy-free yogurt to accommodate dietary restrictions. Just ensure it remains unsweetened to keep the calorie count low.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the ambrosia a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. Chilling overnight helps develop the flavors, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for the coconut?
If you're not a fan of coconut, you can use chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or simply omit it altogether. Adjust the yogurt to keep the consistency creamy.
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).