Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia Salad is a timeless, refreshing dessert that perfectly balances creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures. This delightful dish has been a favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals for decades. Its vibrant colors and sweet, tropical flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert or a unique side dish, Ambrosia Salad fits the bill with ease.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Ambrosia Salad stands out because of its perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of whipped topping and Greek yogurt creates a luscious creamy base that’s light and tangy. The tropical fruits—mandarin oranges, pineapple, and bananas—bring a juicy sweetness, while mini marshmallows add a soft, chewy contrast. Crunchy pecans and shredded coconut provide a satisfying texture that elevates every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you can find at any grocery store.

This version of Ambrosia Salad is a fresh take on the classic, using Greek yogurt for a hint of tang and added protein, while keeping the whipped topping light and fluffy. It’s a perfect dessert for warm weather or any time you want a sweet treat that’s not too heavy.

Ingredients

• 8-ounce tub whipped topping, thawed
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 2 small bananas, sliced
• 1 8-ounce can pineapple tidbits or crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 11-ounce can mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained
• ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup Maraschino cherries, halved

How To Make Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping, Greek yogurt, and pure vanilla extract. Use a spatula or hand mixer to gently fold the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The yogurt adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Step 2: Add the Sweet and Fruity Ingredients

Carefully fold in the mini marshmallows, sliced bananas, drained pineapple tidbits, and drained mandarin oranges. Be gentle to avoid mashing the bananas and to keep the fruit pieces intact and visually appealing.

Step 3: Incorporate the Crunch

Add the roughly chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut to the mixture. The nuts bring a satisfying crunch, while the coconut adds a tropical flair that pairs perfectly with the fruit.

Step 4: Add the Final Touches

Gently fold in the halved Maraschino cherries. These vibrant red gems add a pop of color and a sweet, slightly tart flavor that finishes off the salad beautifully.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Ambrosia Salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning mushy too quickly.
• Drain the canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
• Fold ingredients gently to maintain the salad’s fluffy texture and keep the fruit intact.
• For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad.
• If you prefer a less sweet salad, use unsweetened shredded coconut and reduce the amount of mini marshmallows.
• Add the bananas last to minimize browning and keep them fresh-looking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add fresh berries: Blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries add a fresh, tangy twist.
• Swap the nuts: Use almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for different flavors and textures.
• Dairy-free option: Replace the whipped topping with coconut whipped cream and use a plant-based yogurt.
• Extra tropical: Add diced mango or papaya for a more exotic flavor profile.
• Crunchier salad: Mix in some toasted granola or crushed graham crackers right before serving.
• Less sweet version: Use plain Greek yogurt and reduce or omit the mini marshmallows.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture and flavor, consume within 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the bananas may brown over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you want to prepare ahead, mix all ingredients except the bananas and cherries, then add those just before serving.

FAQ

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a day in advance, but add the bananas and cherries just before serving to keep them fresh and visually appealing.

Is Ambrosia Salad gluten-free?

Absolutely. This recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the mini marshmallows?

You can omit the marshmallows or replace them with small chunks of soft fruit like diced apples or grapes for a less sweet option.

How can I prevent the bananas from browning?

Coat the sliced bananas with a little lemon juice before folding them into the salad. This helps slow down oxidation and keeps them looking fresh longer.

Conclusion

Ambrosia Salad is a delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and refreshing taste will quickly make it a staple in your recipe collection. Whether served as a dessert or a side, this colorful salad brings a burst of flavor and nostalgia to your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with every bite!