"Ma'S" Fruit Salad
Ma'S Fruit Salad offers a delightful mix of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors, perfect for potlucks and gatherings. The combination of pineapple, cherries, marshmallows, and pecans coated in a rich pudding and mayonnaise dressing creates a sweet, creamy, and textured dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and cool the vanilla pudding.
- Drain and chill the pineapple.
- Remove seeds from the cherries and chop them.
- Mix the pineapple, cherries, marshmallows, and pecans in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the pudding, mayonnaise, and whipping cream.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the fruit and nut mixture and mix well.
- Garnish with paprika before serving.
- Can be made the day before needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, which adds creaminess without the extra calories. You can also use fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries instead of canned ones for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, pre-made vanilla pudding cups can be a quick alternative to cooking your own pudding. Just ensure it's well-chilled before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Homa L'S Caramel Pecan Pie for a sweet finish. For a unique twist, consider topping the salad with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or using it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a delightful brunch idea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit salad can lose some texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to rehydrate it, add a splash of fruit juice before serving, which can help revive its flavor and moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Ma'S" Fruit Salad contains roughly 2147 calories, with 25g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 147g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (183% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1374mg per serving (60% 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 a different type of fruit in this salad?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute fruits like peaches, grapes, or even apples. Just keep in mind that the flavors and textures may vary, so choose fruits that complement the creamy base. Fresh fruits can enhance the overall freshness of the dish.
Is this salad suitable for a diabetic diet?
While the salad contains sugar from the fruits, you can adjust it for a diabetic diet by using sugar-free pudding and reducing the amount of marshmallows. Additionally, consider using fresh fruits instead of canned ones, as they typically have less added sugar. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
This fruit salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, consider adding the whipped cream just before serving to maintain its fluffiness. This makes it perfect for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy time with guests.
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).