Ambrosia Salad

Looking for the perfect sweet side for your next gathering? This creamy, fruity Ambrosia Salad is a classic crowd-pleaser! It’s cool, fluffy, and bursting with tropical flavor. Juicy pineapple, tangy mandarin oranges, and vibrant cherries mix with soft marshmallows and sweet coconut. A dreamy swirl of Cool Whip brings it all together. It’s quick to make, fun to eat, and a hit at BBQs, potlucks, and holiday parties!

Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Salad

• Quick and easy: Mix, chill, and serve. There is no baking needed.
• Perfect for gatherings: A hit at barbecues, potlucks, and parties.
• Creamy and fruity: Every bite is loaded with sweet, tropical flavor.
• Kid-friendly: Fun textures and colors make it a favorite for all ages.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Recipe Tips

• Drain fruit well: This keeps the salad from getting watery.
• Use Cool Whip, not whipped cream: It holds up better in the fridge.
• Fold gently: This keeps the fruit from breaking apart.
• Chill before serving: It gives the flavors time to blend.

Ambrosia Variations

• Add sour cream: Swap half the Cool Whip for tangy contrast.
• Use fresh fruit: Fresh pineapple or oranges give a vibrant twist.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch.
• Mix in yogurt: Greek yogurt makes it slightly tangier and more protein-packed.
• Try flavored marshmallows: Adds fun colors and a little extra sweetness.

Swaggy Eats

Ambrosia Salad

This classic Ambrosia Salad recipe is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert bursting with tropical fruit, sweet coconut, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy Cool Whip. A favorite at potlucks and holiday tables, it’s effortlessly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that blends fruity sweetness with creamy texture in every bite!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Course: Brunch, dinner, Lunch, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 can pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained (20 oz)
• 1 can mandarin oranges, drained (15 oz)
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 container Cool Whip, thawed (8 oz)

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, coconut, and mini marshmallows.
2. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow flavors to blend and marshmallows to soften.
4. Serve chilled.

Notes

Estimated Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 230
  
• Fat: 9g
  
• Saturated Fat: 7g
  
• Carbohydrates: 36g
  
• Sugar: 29g
  
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

(Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on exact ingredients and mix-ins used.)

Check Out These Side Dish Recipes:

• Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers in a zesty vinegar-sugar dressing, perfect for summer.
• Potato Salad: Creamy, classic potato salad with a tangy twist and crunch.
• Macaroni Salad: A chilled, creamy pasta salad with a hint of sweetness.
• Dense Bean Salad: Hearty mix of beans in a bold, savory dressing.
• Taco Mac and Cheese: Cheesy, taco-seasoned pasta loaded with beef and flavor.
• Cucumber Tomato Pasta Salad: Light, refreshing pasta salad with crisp veggies and herbs.