Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad
Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad is like a little bowl of sweet sunshine mixed with creamy, fruity goodness. You get all those juicy flavors from mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad is like a little bowl of sweet sunshine mixed with creamy, fruity goodness. You get all those juicy flavors from mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries, combined with the fluffiness of whipped cream and the occasional crunch from miniature marshmallows or coconut. It’s a simple, bright, and happy salad that’s been loved for generations.
I’ve always thought this salad feels like a special treat that reminds me of family gatherings and holiday dinners. I like to make it because it’s easy and always brings smiles to the table. A little tip I love is to let it chill in the fridge for a few hours — it makes all the flavors blend together and the marshmallows soften just perfectly!
Serving this ambrosia salad feels like offering a bowl full of nostalgia and sweetness. I usually bring it to potlucks or have it as a side during warm weather meals, and everyone seems to enjoy the light, fruity burst of flavor. It’s such a comforting dish that’s both refreshing and a little indulgent without being over the top.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Marshmallows: These add a soft, sweet chewiness that balances the fruit. If you want a lighter option, you can skip them or use shredded coconut for added texture.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Coconut gives a nice tropical flavor and a little crunch. Unsweetened coconut works too if you prefer less sweetness.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These create the creamy base. If you want it tangier, use more sour cream. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream.
Mandarin Oranges & Pineapple: Fresh or canned (well-drained) fruit keeps the salad juicy and fresh tasting. If canned isn’t available, fresh cut fruit works great too.
Maraschino Cherries: They add a sweet pop of color and flavor. You can substitute with fresh cherries or even dried cranberries for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad is Creamy but Not Watery?
The key is draining your canned fruit well before mixing. Excess juice can make the salad soggy. Here’s how I do it:
- Drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks in a fine mesh strainer for several minutes.
- Pat them lightly with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
- Gently fold the fruit into the creamy mixture to keep the salad fluffy.
- Refrigerate for a few hours—this softens the marshmallows and lets flavors blend without making it watery.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – big enough to combine all the juicy fruits and creamy dressing easily.
- Rubber spatula – perfect for folding in marshmallows and fruit gently without crushing them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your sour cream, mayo, and sugar just right.
- Fine mesh strainer – helps drain canned fruit well to keep the salad from getting watery.
- Plastic wrap or airtight container – great for covering the salad while it chills in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add crushed pineapple-up pineapple slices for extra tropical sweetness and texture.
- Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-rich twist.
- Mix in diced apple or grapes for a fresh, crisp bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing.
Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved (reserve some whole for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, you’ll need to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time helps the flavors blend and softens the marshmallows, making the salad extra tasty and creamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and well blended.
2. Add Marshmallows and Coconut:
Fold in the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut gently. This adds texture and a touch of sweetness to your salad.
3. Combine the Fruit:
Carefully fold in the drained mandarin orange segments, pineapple chunks, and halved maraschino cherries. Be gentle so the fruit stays in nice pieces.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. The flavors will mingle, and the marshmallows will soften to create that classic ambrosia texture.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, stir the salad gently once more. Top it with the reserved whole maraschino cherries for a pretty, colorful touch. Serve chilled as a sweet side dish or dessert everyone will love!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or spoon for folding
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (for draining canned fruit)
- Plastic wrap or airtight container (for chilling)
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Swap sour cream or mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier taste.
- Mix in diced apples or grapes for fresh crispness.
- Include crushed pineapple for extra tropical flavor.
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and cherries work great. Just make sure to peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces, and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture.
How Long Can I Store Ambrosia Salad?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within that time for freshness and to keep the marshmallows from becoming too mushy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! Preparing it a few hours or even the day before helps the flavors blend beautifully. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream or Mayonnaise?
Sure! You can use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or lighten it up. Just be mindful that the texture and taste will change slightly but still delicious.