Description
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a delightful, creamy fruit salad that combines mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries in a sweet and tangy sour cream and whipped topping dressing. This nostalgic dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday celebrations and can be served chilled for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed until easily spreadable
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
Instructions
- Combine Dressing: In a large bowl, add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix together until smooth and well blended. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to create a light, creamy dressing.
- Add Fruit and Mix-ins: Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated without crushing the fruit.
- Chill and Serve: Although you can serve the salad immediately, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully and the salad to firm up, enhancing its texture and taste before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- For best texture, fold gently to preserve the fruit shape and marshmallows.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Use full-fat sour cream for creamier texture, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Optional: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
