Oh, ambrosia! This classic fruit salad is like a sweet hug in a bowl. I remember my grandma making it for every holiday gathering, and it just wouldn’t be a celebration without this creamy, dreamy mix of fruits. The combination of juicy pineapple chunks and bright mandarin oranges, all coated in fluffy whipped cream, is absolutely irresistible! Plus, those little mini marshmallows and chewy shredded coconut add a fun texture that makes every spoonful delightful. It’s simple to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. Trust me, once you try this ambrosia, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that never goes out of style!
Ingredients for Ambrosia
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delightful ambrosia! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows – These little clouds of sweetness add a fun texture and a hint of nostalgia.
- 1 cup shredded coconut – Make sure it’s unsweetened for a lovely chewy bite that complements the fruit perfectly.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained – The juicy pineapple brings a tropical flair to this salad.
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained – These bright, tangy segments add a burst of flavor and color!
- 1 cup whipped cream – This is what makes everything come together in creamy bliss. You can use store-bought or homemade!
With these simple, yet fantastic ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a bowl of ambrosia that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Ambrosia
Getting your ambrosia ready is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll have it whipped up in no time! Here’s how you do it:
- Start by grabbing a large bowl—this is where the magic happens! Toss in your mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges. Use a spatula to gently mix them together; you want to keep that fluffy texture!
- Next, it’s time to fold in the whipped cream. Take your time here—fold it gently until every piece of fruit and marshmallow is beautifully coated. This is where your ambrosia gets that dreamy, creamy quality!
- Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld together and makes the salad extra refreshing.
- When you’re ready to serve, give it a little stir, and spoon it into bowls. Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!
And that’s it! You’ve just created a delicious ambrosia that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare—whip it up in just 15 minutes!
- Absolutely no cooking required, making it a no-fuss dessert.
- Loaded with vibrant fruits that create a burst of flavor in every bite.
- The creamy texture is simply irresistible and perfect for any occasion.
- Great for gatherings—everyone loves a classic ambrosia fruit salad!
Tips for Success
To make sure your ambrosia turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips I swear by:
- Always use fresh fruits for the best flavor—ripe pineapples and sweet mandarin oranges elevate the dish!
- If you’re looking for a lighter option, try substituting yogurt for whipped cream; it adds a nice tang and creamy texture.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They add a delightful contrast to the softness of the fruits.
- Don’t skip the chilling step—it really enhances the flavors and makes the salad super refreshing!
With these tips, your ambrosia will be a showstopper at any gathering!
Variations of Ambrosia
One of the best things about ambrosia is how easily you can switch it up! For a fun twist, try adding seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries—just imagine that pop of color! You could also mix in some diced apples for a crunchy surprise. Feeling adventurous? A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can give it a warm, cozy vibe, perfect for fall gatherings. If you want to elevate it even more, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top before serving. Each variation brings a unique flavor to this classic dish, so feel free to get creative!
Serving Suggestions
Ambrosia is such a versatile dish that it pairs beautifully with a variety of meals! It’s perfect alongside grilled meats at summer barbecues or as a refreshing side for holiday dinners. I love serving it with a savory ham or alongside a rich turkey at Thanksgiving—it adds a lovely sweetness to the table! You can also enjoy ambrosia as a light dessert on its own, especially after a hearty meal. And don’t forget, it’s a fantastic addition to potlucks, bringing a splash of color and flavor that everyone will adore!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is approximate. Typically, one serving of ambrosia contains around 250 calories, 10g of fat, 3g of protein, and 35g of carbs. Always check your ingredients for more accurate details!
FAQ Section
Can I make ambrosia ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What fruits can I use in ambrosia?
The classic recipe calls for pineapple and mandarin oranges, but you can mix it up! Fresh strawberries, grapes, or even diced apples work wonderfully. Just remember to use fruits that are in season for the best flavor!
Is ambrosia a healthy dessert option?
While ambrosia is a sweet treat, it does contain fruit, which adds some nutritional value. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider substituting yogurt for whipped cream and adding more fresh fruit.
How long does ambrosia last in the fridge?
Generally, ambrosia can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Can I add nuts to my ambrosia?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a delicious crunch and depth to the texture. Just sprinkle them in when mixing for a delightful twist!
Ambrosia: 5 Sweet Reasons You’ll Love This Classic Fruit Salad
- Całkowity Czas: 45 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
A classic fruit salad made with a mix of fruits and creamy dressing.
Składniki
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instrukcje
- In a large bowl, combine mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until all ingredients are well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Uwagi
- Use fresh fruits for better flavor.
- Can substitute whipped cream with yogurt for a lighter option.
- Add nuts for extra crunch if desired.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 0 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: No-cook
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
- Kalorie: 250
- Cukier: 20g
- Sód: 50mg
- Kwasy: 10g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 5g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 3g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 35g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Słowa kluczowe: ambrosia, fruit salad, dessert
