ambrosia salad with fruit cocktail recipe

The Best ambrosia salad with fruit cocktail recipe

I’ve been making ambrosia salad with fruit cocktail for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. This classic recipe is a staple in many American households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients. The dish originated in the early 20th century, when canned fruit became widely available.

It’s a simple mixture of canned fruit, coconut, and marshmallows, but the result is a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick snack. My kids love helping me prepare this salad, as it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about different textures and flavors. We often serve it at family gatherings, and it’s always the first thing to go.

One of the best things about ambrosia salad is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can make it with a variety of fruits, nuts, and spices to suit your taste. I like to use fresh pineapple, grapes, and mandarin oranges for a burst of citrus flavor. My husband swears by adding chopped pecans for crunch.

The key to making this salad is to use high-quality ingredients – don’t skimp on the coconut or marshmallows! I like to use unsweetened shredded coconut for a healthier option. As for the marshmallows, I prefer mini-marshmallows for their tender texture and sweetness level.

Some people may be put off by the coconut, but trust me – it adds depth and richness to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. My kids are obsessed with this salad because of its creamy texture – they can’t get enough of that velvety feel in their mouths. When we’re feeling adventurous, we add some chopped fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

My mom used to make ambrosia salad all the time when I was growing up – she’d serve it at parties and family gatherings without fail. I think what I love most about this recipe is its nostalgic value – every time I make it, I’m transported back to my childhood memories of spending time with my family.

Classic Ambrosia Salad with Fruit Cocktail

4.8 from 1633 votes

A creamy, sweet, and fruity salad that combines canned fruit cocktail with marshmallows, coconut, and a light whipped topping. This retro dish is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or as a refreshing side dish.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, to taste)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Drain the fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple thoroughly in a colander, pressing gently to remove excess liquid.
2Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans (if using) to the bowl.
4Stir gently with a rubber spatula to combine all ingredients evenly.
5In a separate small bowl, mix the thawed whipped topping and sour cream until smooth.
6Fold this mixture into the fruit mixture until everything is well coated.
7Taste the salad and stir in granulated sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
8Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 45mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 24g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and sugar-free whipped topping. You can also add maraschino cherries or mandarin oranges for extra color and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Ambrosia Salad with Fruit Cocktail Works

This ambrosia salad recipe has been a staple in my household for years – not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. My kids love helping me prepare this salad because it’s so much fun to mix together different textures and flavors.

We often serve it at family gatherings or potlucks without fail – everyone loves its sweet and tangy taste! What I love most about this recipe is its versatility – you can customize it to your taste by using different fruits or nuts.

Plus, with its high nutritional value thanks to the coconut and marshmallows (yes!) , you can feel good about serving this dish at any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ambrosia Salad with Fruit Cocktail

What is ambrosia salad?

Ambrosia salad is a classic American dessert made from canned fruit, coconut, and marshmallows.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute fresh fruit like pineapple, grapes, or mandarin oranges for canned fruit.

How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?

Ambrosia salad typically lasts 3-5 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze ambrosia salad?

No – due to the marshmallows’ texture change when frozen.

Is ambrosia salad healthy?

Ambrosia salad can be made healthier by using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened.

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