Ambrosia salad is a classic American dish that typically consists of a mix of fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and nuts, all bound together with a creamy dressing. The ingredients can vary, but common components include:
- Fruits: Typically, ambrosia salad includes fruits like pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries. Some variations may also include grapes or sliced bananas.
- Marshmallows: Miniature marshmallows are a common addition, providing a sweet and chewy texture.
- Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds a tropical and chewy element to the salad.
- Nuts: Chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, are often included for crunch and flavor.
- Dressing: The salad is usually coated with a creamy dressing, which can be made with ingredients like sour cream, yogurt, whipped topping (like Cool Whip), or a combination of these.
To make ambrosia salad:
- Prepare the fruits: Drain canned fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges. If using fresh fruits, make sure they are washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and nuts.
- Add dressing: Gently fold in the creamy dressing until all ingredients are well coated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the texture of the salad.
- Chill: Refrigerate the ambrosia salad for at least a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Ambrosia salad is a versatile dish, and variations abound. Some recipes might include additional ingredients like sour cream, vanilla extract, or fruit juices in the dressing. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your preferences!
