Ambrosia Dessert

A classic and colorful salad for the whole family to enjoy. Recipe and photography provided courtesy of Taste of Home.

About This Recipe

Are you in the mood for a taste of spring? Well, get ready for our version of the classic Ambrosia Salad! This easy recipe is the perfect addition to any spring gathering. Join us as we cover what’s in the fruit dish, its origins, ideal pairings, and more!

What is Ambrosia Salad and What’s it Made of?

If you’re not familiar, traditional ambrosia salad is a classic American dish made from a mix of fruits like oranges, pineapple, and cherries, along with mini marshmallows and sometimes coconut flakes. These ingredients are typically mixed with a creamy dressing made from sour cream, whipped cream, or yogurt, creating a sweet and refreshing dessert or side dish commonly served at gatherings and holidays. Our version skips the cherries and opts for the tangy richness of sour cream, adding a yummy twist to the classic recipe. With its simple assembly and light, fruity flavors, it’s an easy recipe perfect for the Easter season!

Origins of Ambrosia Salad

Are you curious about how Ambrosia salad got its name? The dessert traces its origins to the late 19th or early 20th century. While its exact creator remains unknown, the name “Ambrosia” likely references Greek mythology, where it was considered the food or drink of the gods, believed to bestow immortality to those who consumed it. And once you taste this heavenly treat, you’ll know exactly why it was named after the food of the gods!

What to Serve Alongside Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Are you wondering what dishes go well with Ambrosia salad? We’ve got you covered with options that complement its flavors perfectly. Since it’s often served on holidays, it would make a perfect dessert to go with Glazed Pineapple Hasselback Ham for Easter. We also recommend whipping up a batch of All-Day Fruit Cooler or Agua Fresca – these pineapple-filled drinks will enhance the tropical vibes of your spread. For a side dish, consider serving a Mandarin and Kale Salad. The crisp kale and juicy mandarin oranges will bring some extra color and crunch to your feast.

How Long will Ambrosia Salad Keep?

Ambrosia salad typically lasts well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you’re preparing ambrosia salad the night before, it’s best to add ingredients like marshmallows just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy. We recommended enjoying your creation within a few days for the best taste and texture!

There’s no better way to get ready for the warmer days ahead than with an Ambrosia Salad. And whether you’re hosting Easter or a casual spring brunch, we promise this recipe will make your gathering unforgettable. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this delicious dessert!

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) DOLE® Canned Mandarin Oranges In Light Syrup, drained
  • 1 can (8oz.) DOLE® Pineapple Tidbits in 100% Pineapple Juice, drained
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup sour cream

Method

  1. Combine the DOLE® Mandarin OrangesDOLE® Pineapple Tidbits, marshmallows and coconut in a large bowl.
  2. Add sour cream and toss to mix.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mixture to set.

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