Rosamarina Or Frog Eye Salad
A vibrant, sweet pasta salad featuring pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschinos, coated in a creamy, gelatinous sauce—perfect for parties and summer gatherings. Bright and refreshing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook acini de pepe pasta as directed on the package; drain and set aside.
- Pour the juice from all the canned fruit into a large saucepan.
- Mix all the fruit in a large mixing bowl; set aside.
- Combine sugar with the fruit juices in the saucepan.
- Add cornstarch to the mixture and stir until lumps are gone.
- Turn on the heat and stir constantly with a wire whisk until the mixture thickens to the consistency of pudding.
- Be careful not to let it burn on the bottom.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside to cool, stirring occasionally until fully cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or sour cream. If you want to reduce sugar, use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar to half a cup. You can also substitute acini de pepe with another small pasta like couscous or quinoa for a different texture. Be sure to stir the mixture continuously to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at summer gatherings or potlucks. This salad pairs beautifully with Cornish Hens Tarragon for a delightful main course. Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top for extra flavor and texture. For a colorful presentation, consider layering in a clear glass bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken upon chilling; if so, stir in a little fruit juice to loosen it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits will change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rosamarina Or Frog Eye Salad contains roughly 276 calories, with 1g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% 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 substitute fresh fruit for canned options. Just be sure to include enough juice or a light syrup to maintain the right consistency and sweetness. Fresh pineapple, oranges, and cherries would work well in this recipe.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan; however, ensure that all canned fruits do not contain any added sugars or ingredients derived from animals. You can enhance the flavor with a splash of orange juice or a few drops of vanilla extract for added complexity.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated and stir it well before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier. It's a great option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.
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).