Ambrosia Salad Recipe

This Ambrosia Salad is a light, creamy, and fruity dessert perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any gathering. With bright fruit flavors, fluffy marshmallows, and a creamy vanilla pudding base, it’s a timeless dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with no cooking required.
• Light and Refreshing: A perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts for a twist.
• Kid-Friendly: A dessert that’s sure to delight both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, picnics, or casual family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup seedless green grapes
• 1 can mandarin orange segments, drained
• 1 can pineapple tidbits in juice, drained
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1 container refrigerated vanilla pudding
• ½ cup Cool Whip

Directions

1. Prepare the Fruit:
   • Wash the grapes and strawberries. Slice the strawberries and halve the grapes if desired.
   • Drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple tidbits thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
2. Mix the Base:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the refrigerated vanilla pudding and Cool Whip. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the grapes, mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, strawberries, and marshmallows to the pudding mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together to coat everything evenly.
4. Chill:
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the salad to set slightly.
5. Serve:
   • Give the salad a quick stir and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with additional fruit or marshmallows, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Coconut Twist: Fold in ½ cup of shredded sweetened coconut for a tropical flavor.
• Berry Swap: Use blueberries or raspberries in place of strawberries.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free pudding and light Cool Whip for a healthier version.
• Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon or orange zest for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy base may separate upon thawing.
• No Reheating Needed: Serve chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, Ambrosia Salad can be made a day in advance. Refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve.

2. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?

You can substitute whipped cream, but be sure to stabilize it with a little powdered sugar if making from scratch.

3. Can I use canned fruit cocktail?

Yes, but drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.

4. How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?

Ensure all canned fruits are well-drained, and avoid overmixing the ingredients.

5. Can I add bananas?

Yes, but add sliced bananas just before serving to prevent browning.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free. Check labels on pudding and Cool Whip to ensure compliance.

7. Can I use frozen fruit?

Frozen fruit can be used but should be thawed and drained thoroughly before adding.

8. What can I use instead of marshmallows?

Mini meringues or crumbled shortbread cookies can be a fun alternative.

9. Can I omit the pudding?

For a simpler version, omit the pudding and increase the amount of Cool Whip.

10. How do I make it more festive?

Top with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for a party-ready presentation.

Conclusion

This Ambrosia Salad is a delightful combination of fruity, creamy, and marshmallowy goodness. It’s a nostalgic dessert that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear!

Print