Why You’ll Love this Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a delightful dessert, you’ll love this Ambrosia Fruit Salad recipe. I can’t get enough of its vibrant colors and creamy texture.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, thanks to the mix of fruits and whipped topping. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a revitalizing treat that’ll impress your guests.
I love how versatile it’s too; you can customize it with your favorite fruits. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be craving this salad for every gathering!
Ingredients of Ambrosia Fruit Salad
When it comes to whipping up something delicious and delightful, the ingredients for Ambrosia Fruit Salad are just as important as the love you put into making it. This recipe is like a treasure chest of flavors and textures, combining sweet fruits and creamy Cool Whip into a bowl of happiness.
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this vibrant dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 8 ounces fruit cocktail, drained
- 8 ounces pineapple chunks, drained
- 11 ounces mandarin oranges, drained
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Now, before you get started, let’s talk about a few fun ingredient swaps and considerations. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can easily replace them with pecans or skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
And if coconut’s not your thing (I mean, who doesn’t love a tropical twist, right?), feel free to cut back on the shredded coconut or leave it out altogether.
Also, while the recipe calls for specific fruit like fruit cocktail and pineapple, don’t hesitate to mix in your favorites. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or even bananas could add a nice touch!
Just remember to drain any canned fruit really well—nobody wants a soggy salad.
How to Make Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Making Ambrosia Fruit Salad is like crafting a fruity masterpiece, and the joy begins the moment you gather your ingredients. First things first, grab that 8 ounces of Cool Whip. You’ll want it to be nice and fluffy, so make sure it’s fully thawed before diving in.
Then, in a large mixing bowl, toss in the 2 1/2 cups of shredded coconut. I mean, who doesn’t love a little tropical flair? Next, add in the 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for that delightful crunch. If you’re anything like me, you might accidentally munch on a few nuts while preparing—no judgment here.
Now, it’s time to bring in the fruity goodness. Drain those cans like a pro, starting with the 8 ounces of fruit cocktail and the 8 ounces of pineapple chunks. After that, throw in the 11 ounces of mandarin oranges. This is the part where your bowl starts looking like a colorful rainbow.
Go ahead and mix all of those fruits with the marshmallows—3 cups of miniature marshmallows, to be exact—because who could say no to marshmallows? And don’t forget the cherry on top—well, technically, it’s 10 ounces of maraschino cherries, all drained and ready to shine.
Finally, sprinkle in that 1 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to give your salad that warm, cozy feel. Once everything is in the bowl, mix it all together gently. You don’t want to create a fruit disaster; we’re going for a beautiful blend here.
After you’ve combined the ingredients, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for about 30 to 45 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, like a great friendship that blossoms over time.
When you finally take it out, it’s like unwrapping a gift—bright, colorful, and oh-so-delicious. Just remember to serve it with a smile, because who wouldn’t want a bowl of happiness?
Ambrosia Fruit Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to put your own spin on Ambrosia Fruit Salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a twist, swap out the Cool Whip for Greek yogurt for a healthier option. You can also use fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries instead of canned fruit. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try pecans or almonds.
For a tropical flair, add mango or kiwi. Switching cinnamon for vanilla extract can enhance the flavor too.
Don’t forget to customize the marshmallows; mini chocolate ones could add a delightful surprise! The possibilities are endless! Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Ambrosia Fruit Salad
What goes well with Ambrosia Fruit Salad? I love pairing it with savory dishes for a balanced meal. It complements grilled meats, like chicken or pork, perfectly.
You could also serve it alongside a nice platter of cheese and crackers, enhancing the flavors. For brunch, it’s delicious with fluffy pancakes or waffles, drizzled with maple syrup.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider placing it next to a charcuterie board; the sweetness contrasts nicely with cured meats.
Finally, it’s a vibrant addition to any holiday spread, especially with roasted vegetables. Ambrosia adds a revitalizing touch to any meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Ambrosia Fruit Salad is straightforward, a few tips can elevate the dish.
First, I recommend chilling the salad for at least an hour before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To add a twist, consider mixing in some fresh berries or chopped apples for extra texture.
If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. I also like to adjust the spices—adding a dash of vanilla extract can enhance the sweetness.
Finally, remember to serve it in a pretty bowl; presentation makes a difference and will impress your guests! Enjoy your delicious creation!