AMBROSIA SALAD 

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

• Drain both the pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges and set them aside. Make sure to reserve a little of the juice for the dressing or to help adjust the consistency later on.
• If using maraschino cherries, drain the liquid and cut them in half to make them easier to mix in with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Base

• In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed.
• Gently fold in sour cream (if using) to the whipped cream, along with a tablespoon of the orange juice from the reserved fruit juice. This gives the salad a smooth texture and a slight citrusy flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

• To the whipped cream mixture, add the pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and mini marshmallows. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking up the fruit.
• If you’re adding shredded coconut, now’s the time to toss it in for a tropical flair and added texture.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

• Once everything is mixed together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. This gives the Ambrosia Salad its signature chilled, creamy texture.
• When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle stir and enjoy!

Variations and Tips:

• Add More Fruit: Some variations of Ambrosia Salad include other fruits such as grapes, bananas, or apples. Get creative and customize the recipe with whatever fruits you love!
• Use Greek Yogurt: For a healthier alternative, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a bit of tang and a creamy consistency without the extra calories.
• Coconut-Free: If you’re not a fan of shredded coconut, feel free to leave it out—Ambrosia Salad will still be delicious.
• Sweetened Whipped Topping: For a faster version, you can replace the homemade whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping. Just fold it into the fruit mixture instead of whipping your own cream.

Why Ambrosia Salad Is the Perfect Side Dish:

Ambrosia Salad is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s sweet without being overly sugary, and it offers a nice balance between creamy and fruity. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or as a side dish to your main meal, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly! It pairs especially well with savory dishes like grilled meats, BBQs, or holiday roasts.

This salad’s versatility also means you can make it your own. Add a handful of your favorite fruits or even swap in a different topping. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight treat or bring it to a potluck, it’s the kind of recipe that’s always a hit.

Conclusion:

Ambrosia Salad has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s an easy, refreshing dessert (or side dish) that combines the best of fruity sweetness with creamy richness. Perfect for any occasion, this classic recipe is sure to become a go-to in your recipe box.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. Once you taste it, you’ll see why Ambrosia Salad has been a family favorite for generations!

Enjoy your ambrosia salad, and remember—it’s the perfect way to add a little sweetness to any meal!