Ambrosia Salad โ A Classic Holiday Dessert
This Ambrosia Salad recipe has been a beloved family tradition for as long as I can remember. Every year, we enjoy it at Christmas, and it’s always a hit. In fact, we have often had to hide it in the fridge so it doesn’t get eaten before dinner! With its refreshing citrus and tropical fruit flavors, this dessert is a perfect addition to any holiday meal or celebration. It’s a light yet indulgent treat that has stood the test of time, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection as well.
Ingredients for Ambrosia Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oranges (peeled and sectioned) | 2 |
| Crushed pineapple (with juice) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Maraschino cherries (cut in half) | 1 jar (6 oz) |
| Sweetened shredded coconut | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Bananas (peeled and sliced) | 4 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 891.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 31.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 27.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 20.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 157.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.4 g |
| Sugar | 121.7 g |
| Protein | 11.6 g |
Recipe Instructions for Ambrosia Salad
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Prepare the Oranges: Peel the oranges and cut them into large sections, removing any remaining membrane. The goal is to have perfectly juicy orange segments without the bitter pith or membrane. Place the peeled orange sections into a large mixing bowl.
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Add the Pineapple: Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour it into the bowl with the oranges, including all the juice. The juice from the pineapple will add a wonderful sweetness and moisture to the salad.
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Prepare the Cherries: Take the maraschino cherries and cut them in half, discarding the stems. Add these cherry halves, along with any juice, into the fruit mixture. The cherries not only bring a pop of color but also a sweet-tart flavor that balances the richness of the other fruits.
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Add Coconut and Sugar: Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and granulated sugar. The coconut adds a tropical flair, while the sugar enhances the overall sweetness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
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Refrigerate Overnight: Once all ingredients are well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the salad to chill, which is essential for the perfect texture.
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Add the Bananas: Just before serving, peel and slice the bananas and gently fold them into the ambrosia mixture. Bananas should be added last to prevent them from browning and becoming mushy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the bananas are incorporated, your Ambrosia Salad is ready to be served. Scoop generous portions into bowls and enjoy the light, fruity, and sweet flavors that make this dessert a perennial favorite.
Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad
- Citrus Variations: While oranges are the traditional fruit for this salad, you can also experiment with adding tangerines or grapefruits for a different twist on the classic citrus flavor.
- Using Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer fresh pineapple over canned, you can easily substitute it by cutting up 1 ยฝ cups of fresh pineapple and adding both the fruit and juice.
- Keep Bananas Fresh: Bananas are prone to browning quickly once theyโre sliced. If you’re worried about this, you can toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
- Non-Dairy Option: For a dairy-free version, you can skip the sweetened coconut and opt for a dairy-free whipped topping instead of the sugar for extra sweetness.
Why Ambrosia Salad is Perfect for Any Occasion
Ambrosia Salad is the kind of dessert that transcends seasons and is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of year, though it truly shines during holidays. The bright, juicy fruit and the creamy texture make it a refreshing contrast to heavier, richer dishes that often dominate the dinner table during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or a light snack, this recipeโs simple yet delicious blend of ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Additionally, itโs incredibly easy to prepare, with minimal effort required. The bulk of the time goes into chilling the salad overnight, which means you can prepare it ahead of time and free up your schedule for other holiday preparations or family time.
Ambrosia Salad is not just a dessertโit’s a part of cherished memories, a comforting dish that reminds you of family gatherings and the joy of sharing a meal. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any festive occasion, it’s a dish that will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Enjoy making this delicious Ambrosia Salad and watch as it becomes as much of a holiday tradition in your family as it is in mine!
