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Ambrosia Salad

Delightful Ambrosia Salad for Your Next Potluck Gathering

Ambrosia Salad is a nostalgic and creamy dessert that brings joy to any potluck gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup Cool Whip Can substitute with whipped cream or yogurt.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Can replace with Greek yogurt.
For the Fruit Medley
  • 1 cup Mini Marshmallows Omit for a lower-sugar version.
  • 1 15-oz can Mandarin Oranges Drained; can use fresh mandarins.
  • 1 cup Chopped Fresh Pineapple Canned pineapple can be substituted.
For the Crunch & Texture
  • 3/4 cup Shredded Coconut Use unsweetened for a healthier option.
  • 3/4 cup Toasted Pecans Can substitute with walnuts or almonds.
For Garnish
  • 3/4 cup Maraschino Cherries Halved and drained; can be omitted.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Heavenly Ambrosia Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of Cool Whip and 1 cup of sour cream. Fold gently until well blended and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Carefully fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows, 1 can of drained mandarin oranges, and 1 cup of chopped fresh pineapple. Ensure the salad remains light and fluffy, taking about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in 3/4 cup of shredded coconut and 3/4 cup of toasted pecans. Mix gently to retain texture, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Fold in 3/4 cup of halved maraschino cherries. Mix well but avoid over-mixing.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for flavors to meld.
  6. After chilling, give a gentle stir before serving in individual bowls or a large dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Maintain the fruit's integrity by avoiding over-mixing and consider using reduced-fat options for lighter versions.

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