Auntie Midge’s Hawaiian Salad is a refreshing and tropical treat perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or anytime you crave something sweet and tangy. This creamy fruit salad combines vibrant canned fruits, soft marshmallows, and sour cream for a dessert-like side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly quick and easy to prepare with no cooking required.
• A refreshing mix of sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy texture.
• Perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Requires only five simple ingredients.
• A versatile dish that can be served as a side or dessert.

Ingredients

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

• 1 (30-ounce) can fruit cocktail, drained thoroughly
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained thoroughly
• 1 (8-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained thoroughly
• 1 (10.5-ounce) package miniature marshmallows
• 1 (24-ounce) container sour cream

Directions

1. Combine the Fruits
   In a large mixing bowl, add the thoroughly drained fruit cocktail, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges.
2. Add the Marshmallows
   Toss in the miniature marshmallows and gently stir to distribute them evenly among the fruit.
3. Coat with Sour Cream
   Add the sour cream to the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.
4. Refrigerate
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve
   Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Addition: Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Cherry Garnish: Top with maraschino cherries for extra color and sweetness.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Creamy Cool Whip: Fold in Cool Whip along with the sour cream for an extra creamy texture.
• Fresh Fruit: Use fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, or mango for a modern twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the sour cream and marshmallows, which may change texture when thawed.
• Reheating: This dish is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to prepare it a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld.

2. Can I use low-fat sour cream?

Absolutely! Low-fat sour cream works well and will slightly lighten the dish.

3. What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or a combination of whipped cream and cream cheese can be used as substitutes.

4. Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

5. How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Ensure the canned fruits are thoroughly drained before mixing.

6. Can I omit the marshmallows?

Yes, but the marshmallows add a sweet, pillowy texture to the salad.

7. Can I use frozen fruit instead of canned?

Frozen fruit can be used but should be thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

8. How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the marshmallows to soften.

9. What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, barbecue dishes, or as a light dessert.

10. Can I add food coloring for a festive look?

Yes, a few drops of food coloring can make this dish even more vibrant for special occasions.

Conclusion

Auntie Midge’s Hawaiian Salad is a nostalgic recipe that’s both easy to make and delightfully delicious. With its tropical flavors and creamy texture, it’s a hit for any occasion. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear—it’s a dish everyone will ask for again and again!

Auntie Midge’s Hawaiian Salad

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 5min
• Total Time: 4hours 5minutes ( chill time included)
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish/ Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Hawaiian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Bring the tropics to your table with Auntie Midge’s Hawaiian Salad! A delightful blend of fruit cocktail, pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and sour cream—perfect for potlucks and summer get-togethers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (30-ounce) can fruit cocktail, drained thoroughly
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained thoroughly
• 1 (8-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained thoroughly
• 1 (10.5-ounce) package miniature marshmallows
• 1 (24-ounce) container sour cream

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Instructions

• Mix the Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, combine the fruit cocktail, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and miniature marshmallows.
• Add the Dressing:
  • Gently stir in the sour cream, ensuring all the fruit and marshmallows are evenly coated.
• Chill:
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve:
  • Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or dessert.

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Notes

• For added texture and flavor, mix in shredded coconut or chopped pecans.
• Use a light sour cream option for a lower-calorie version.
• Best served chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.