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Classic Homemade Ambrosia Salad

classic homemade ambrosia salad - featured image

A timeless, easy-to-make ambrosia salad with just five simple ingredients, blending creamy, crunchy, and fruity textures for a nostalgic summer treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 can (11 oz / 312 g) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup (50 g) sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup (40 g) mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

Instructions

  1. Drain the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly using a colander and let sit for a minute to release excess juice.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges without breaking the fruit pieces.
  3. Add the shredded coconut and mini marshmallows to the fruit mixture. Optionally, toast the coconut in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, then let cool before adding.
  4. Fold in the whipped topping carefully using a spatula until everything is evenly coated and fluffy. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  6. Before serving, gently stir the salad to fluff it back up. Adjust sweetness if needed by adding a teaspoon of honey or extra coconut.

Notes

Drain fruit thoroughly to avoid watery salad. Fold ingredients gently to keep fruit intact and marshmallows fluffy. Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor and texture. Optionally toast coconut for extra flavor. Add fresh mini marshmallows before serving if texture softens. Nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added for crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: ambrosia salad, fruit salad, easy dessert, potluck recipe, summer salad, creamy fruit salad, classic ambrosia