Mandarin-Pineapple Fruit Salad
A refreshing and creamy fruit salad combining tangy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple, toasted coconut, and crunchy pecans, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or light dessert options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream, drained crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, flaked coconut, miniature marshmallows, chopped pecan pieces, and Splenda in a large bowl.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat sour cream instead of low-fat. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. If you want a bit of acidity, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice. You can also use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a more vibrant taste. This salad is perfect as a side for American recipes like Green Beans Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Mandarin-Pineapple Fruit Salad as a delightful side at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Greenville Macaroni Pie, making it a perfect summer dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for added flavor. This salad also makes a great light dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sour cream and fruit will change upon thawing. Best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin-Pineapple Fruit Salad contains roughly 1085 calories, with 12g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh mandarin oranges and pineapple can elevate the flavors and add a vibrant texture to the salad. Just make sure to peel and segment the oranges and chop the pineapple into small pieces to maintain the salad's consistency.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
You can reduce the sugar by using a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar instead of Splenda. Additionally, substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream can increase the protein content while still providing creaminess, making it a healthier option.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the pecans right before serving to keep them crunchy.
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).