Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Ambrosia salad recipe is a timeless classic that brings a burst of sweetness and a medley of textures to the table. This dessert salad is a nostalgic favorite, often served at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. With its mix of fruits, marshmallows, and a creamy dressing, ambrosia salad is as delightful to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re new to this dish or revisiting an old favorite, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you whip up a batch of this crowd-pleaser in no time.

Brief History of Ambrosia Salad recipe:

The origins of ambrosia salad date back to the 19th century in the Southern United States. The name “ambrosia” comes from Greek mythology, where it was the food of the gods, said to confer immortality. This salad was considered a luxurious dish due to the use of exotic ingredients like coconut and oranges, which were not readily available at the time. Over the years, the recipe evolved, with variations including ingredients like pineapple, maraschino cherries, and marshmallows. Today, ambrosia salad is a beloved dish that continues to be a staple at festive gatherings.

Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Pinklady

The origins of ambrosia salad date back to the 19th century in the Southern United States. The name "ambrosia" comes from Greek mythology, where it was the food of the gods, said to confer immortality

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Course Salad

Cuisine American, Ancient Greece

Servings 6

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or large spoon
• Measuring cups
• Serving dish

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (drained)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup maraschino cherries (halved)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

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Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ingredients: Start by draining the mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks to remove excess liquid. If using maraschino cherries, cut them in half and set them aside. Chop the pecans or walnuts if you choose to add them.
• Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, mandarin orange segments, pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. If you like a bit of crunch, add the chopped nuts to the mix.
• Add the Creamy Dressing: Fold in the sour cream gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. The sour cream will give the salad a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the fruits and marshmallows.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, sprinkle in a tablespoon of sugar and mix well. This step is optional and can be adjusted according to taste.
• Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir before transferring it to a serving dish. Serve cold and enjoy this sweet, creamy treat.

Video

Keyword Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: A refreshing mix of fruits tossed in a zesty honey-lime dressing.
– Waldorf Salad: A classic combination of apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a creamy dressing.
– Creamy Grape Salad: Sweet and juicy grapes covered in a cream cheese-based dressing and topped with brown sugar and pecans.
– Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant salad featuring tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi, with a hint of lime and mint.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ambrosia Salad Recipe:

1. Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare ambrosia salad up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use fresh fruit for the Ambrosia recipe instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be used, but make sure to peel, chop, and drain any excess juice to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to sour cream?

Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

4. How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?

Ambrosia salad can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

5. Can I add more fruits to the salad?

Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite fruits like grapes, apples, or bananas to customize the salad to your taste.

6. Is ambrosia salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients, particularly the marshmallows, are labeled gluten-free.

7. Can I add whipped cream instead of sour cream?

Yes, for a sweeter and fluffier salad, you can substitute sour cream with whipped cream or a combination of both.

8. What can I use instead of marshmallows?

If you prefer not to use marshmallows, you can skip them or replace them with mini meringues or coconut flakes for a different texture.

9. Why is it called “ambrosia”?

The name “ambrosia” is derived from Greek mythology, where it was considered the food of the gods, symbolizing something especially delightful and pleasing.

Conclusion:

Ambrosia salad is a nostalgic and versatile dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Its simplicity and delightful mix of flavors make it a favorite among all ages. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a summer picnic, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it out, and you might find yourself reaching for seconds—or even thirds!

YouTube Video Credits:
The Stay At Home Chef