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Ambrosia salad, a heavenly creation bursting with tropical flavors and textures, has remained a popular dessert for generations. This delightful dish is loved for its refreshing taste, versatility, and nostalgic charm. Explore the origins of this heavenly salad, delve into its enduring popularity, and share some top tips to create the best ambrosia salad ever in just 3 steps.

My version is a bit different from the classic ambrosia salad recipe because it uses sour cream instead of whipped topping. This delicious fruit salad is extra creamy and is the perfect addition for your holiday table or your next potluck.

Also called ambrosia fruit salad, it’s a real treat that is always a big hit. My version is more of a tropical fruit medley with a slight tartness that is so refreshing for the summer. Another version calls for pistachio pudding mix, but my family prefers this easy recipe. 

Origins of Ambrosia Salad

The exact origins of this heavenly fruit salad are a subject of debate, but it is believed to have emerged in the Southern United States in the late 19th century. The name “ambrosia” is derived from Greek mythology, referring to the food of the Roman gods that granted immortality. Much like its namesake, ambrosia salad has captured the hearts and palates of countless individuals over the years.

Popularity of Ambrosia Salad

There are several reasons behind the enduring popularity of ambrosia salad. Firstly, its combination of tropical fruits, creamy dressing, and optional additions like marshmallows and coconut flakes creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This medley of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Additionally, this side dish often carries a nostalgic charm, evoking fond memories of family gatherings, picnics, and holiday feasts. Its vibrant appearance and the variety of ingredients make it visually appealing, enhancing its allure for special occasions.

Top Tips to Make the Best Ambrosia Salad Ever

1. Delicious fruits: Pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries are popular choices. Feel free to experiment with other fruits as well, such as grapes, strawberries or kiwis, to add your own twist.

2. Properly drain the fruits: Ensure that the fruits are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad. This will help maintain the desired creamy consistency and prevent the salad from becoming watery.

3. Creamy dressing: Prepare a luscious dressing by combining whipped cream, sour cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. This combination adds richness and a smooth texture to the salad. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

4. Optional additions: While traditional ambrosia salad includes mini marshmallows and shredded coconut, you can personalize it with your favorite add-ons. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch, while coconut flakes or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can add an extra layer of flavor.

5. Chill before serving: Once prepared, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the salad’s refreshing taste.

Its versatility allows for personalization, making it suitable for any occasion. By following these top tips, you can create a divine ambrosia salad that will undoubtedly become a favorite among family and friends. So, indulge in this classic dessert with tropical fruit flavors and savor the enchanting blend of tastes that have delighted palates for generations.

What do you need to make ambrosia salad?

To make this salad, you will typically need the following ingredients:

• Canned pineapple chunks or fresh pineapple, diced
• Canned mandarin oranges or fresh oranges, segmented
• Maraschino cherries, drained and halved (optional)
• Mini marshmallows
• Shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
• Whipped cream or whipped topping such as Cool Whip
• Sour cream, Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt

These ingredients form the base for a classic ambrosia salad, but feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or toppings of your choice. My easy ambrosia recipe uses sour cream but you can swap for Cool Whip if you desire.

Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Prep: 10 minutes (not including refrigeration)

Yield: 4 to 6 servings 

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut 
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows 
• 1 cup sour cream

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, stir together the pineapple, oranges, coconut, and marshmallows.
2. Fold in the sour cream until completely blended.
3. Cover and store in the refrigerator for at least two hours or until the moisture is absorbed by the coconut. 

How to store ambrosia salad

To store ambrosia salad, it’s best to keep it chilled in the refrigerator. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Covered container: Transfer the ambrosia salad to an airtight container with a lid or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This helps prevent the salad from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator and keeps it fresh.

2. Refrigeration: Place the covered container in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Ambrosia salad contains perishable ingredients like fruits and dairy products, so it should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to maintain its quality and prevent bacterial growth.

3. Consume within a few days: Ambrosia salad is best enjoyed within a couple of days of preparation, as the fruits may start to lose their freshness over time. Consume it promptly or consider making smaller batches if you anticipate leftovers.

Remember to give the salad a gentle stir before serving if any separation or settling has occurred. Following these storage guidelines will help you maintain the taste, texture, and safety of your ambrosia salad.

More delicious salad recipes

• Best (and easy!) homemade egg salad recipe
• The Most Delicious Chicken Salad Recipe
• Fuji Apple Salad and Dressing

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