Tasty Ambrosia

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing, sweet fruit salad featuring mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, coconut, and marshmallows, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cans mandarin oranges
  • 2 large cans crushed pineapple
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup honey
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons almond extract
  • 1 cup flaked coconut
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Refrigerate overnight.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter ambrosia, adjust the honey to your taste, starting with 1/2 cup and adding more if desired. If you prefer a nutty flavor, substitute almond extract with a splash of vanilla extract. You can also use fresh fruit like diced apples or grapes for added texture and flavor. This dish is versatile, allowing for modifications to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tasty Ambrosia as a refreshing dessert or a delightful side at picnics and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Glazed Wieners or can be enjoyed alongside savory dishes. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of extra coconut or crushed nuts for added visual appeal and crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover ambrosia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so no need to reheat. If the mixture appears to have released some liquid after storage, simply give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tasty Ambrosia contains roughly 1118 calories, with 15g protein, 245g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (172% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (114% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1075mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

1118 kcal 56% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.2g 30% DV
Total Fat 10.7g 14% DV
Carbs 245g 89% DV
Fiber 10.1g 36% DV
Sugar 129.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1074.5mg 47% DV
Potassium 585.9mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1021.6mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 54.6mg 61% DV
Vitamin D 7.2mcg 36% DV
Calcium 683.3mg 53% DV
Iron 30.9mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Tree nuts

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, fresh fruit can be used to replace the canned mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple. Just ensure the fruit is ripe and sweet for the best flavor. Diced apples or fresh berries can make great additions, enhancing the dish's texture and freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted for vegan diets by replacing honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, making it a refreshing option for vegan gatherings.

How can I make this recipe more festive for holidays?

To add a festive touch, consider incorporating seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or chopped cranberries. You can also use themed bowls for serving or garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color. This makes it a perfect side for holiday meals.

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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