Simple Ambrosia

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, sweet fruit salad combining marshmallows, coconut, sour cream, and fruit cocktail, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings with a tropical twist.

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Ingredients

  • 1 bag miniature marshmallows
  • 1 (7 oz.) bag shredded coconut
  • 1 (16 oz.) carton sour cream
  • 1 large can fruit cocktail (29 oz.), drained
  • 1 can pineapple chunks

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients well.
  2. Chill for 24 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your Simple Ambrosia, consider adding chopped nuts or a splash of vanilla extract. If you prefer, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste. For a tropical twist, try using diced mango or kiwi in place of some of the fruit cocktail. Just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Simple Ambrosia chilled as a refreshing dessert at gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Tasty Apple Salad or can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats for a light, sweet contrast. Garnish with additional shredded coconut or a few maraschino cherries for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruit and marshmallows may change when thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Simple Ambrosia contains roughly 468 calories, with 6g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

468 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6g 12% DV
Total Fat 10.3g 13% DV
Carbs 92.6g 34% DV
Fiber 7.1g 25% DV
Sugar 39g 78% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 312.5mg 14% DV
Potassium 428mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 2.3mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 283.2mcg 31% DV
Vitamin C 20.2mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 1.8mcg 9% DV
Calcium 221.9mg 17% DV
Iron 8.8mg 49% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 definitely use fresh fruit! Just be sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces. Fresh pineapple, strawberries, and grapes work well. However, keep in mind that fresh fruit may not provide the same sweetness as canned fruit cocktail, so adjust your ingredients accordingly.

How long can I keep the ambrosia in the refrigerator?

Simple Ambrosia can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served fresh, but the flavors can deepen over time. Just ensure it's covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Can I make this ambrosia in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended to make it at least 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to cover it well and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

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).

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