why make this recipe
Easter Ambrosia Salad is easy, sweet, and bright. It uses simple canned fruits and Cool Whip. You can make it fast for a family meal or a holiday dish. If you like fruit mixes, also try a warm-weather fruit bowl like Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad for more ideas.
introduction
This salad mixes soft marshmallows, fruit, coconut, and a light whipped base. It needs little time and no cooking. You can make it a day ahead so flavors blend. It is mild in taste and loved by kids and adults.
how to make Easter Ambrosia Salad
Start with a large bowl. Add the Cool Whip first so the other bits fold in easily. Gently fold every ingredient until they look even. Do not stir too hard or the fruit will break. Chill the salad at least one hour so it firms and the flavors join. For more simple salad ideas, you can see a savory option like Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup Cool Whip
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained)
- 1 cup grapes (halved)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions :
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cool Whip, mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, grapes, and chopped nuts if using. Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Easter Ambrosia Salad!
how to serve Easter Ambrosia Salad
Serve cold in a bowl or in individual cups. Use a slotted spoon so syrup from canned fruit does not make it too wet. Top with extra coconut or a cherry for color. This salad pairs well with savory mains and simple breads.
how to store Easter Ambrosia Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or move salad to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge. Eat within 2–3 days for best texture. After two days marshmallows may soften and fruit may make more juice.
tips to make Easter Ambrosia Salad
- Drain canned fruit well to avoid extra juice.
- Fold gently to keep fruit whole and marshmallows soft.
- Add nuts last so they stay crunchy.
- For a fresh twist, add chopped apple just before serving.
- If you want a protein side, try serving with a light shrimp salad like Cilantro Lime Shrimp Avocado Salad.
variation (if any)
- Use real whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
- Swap grapes for sliced strawberries or blueberries.
- Leave out nuts for a nut-free version.
- Add a small spoon of sour cream or yogurt for tang.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
A: Yes. Fresh fruit works well. Just cut to bite size and do not add extra juice.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it a few hours or the day before and chill. The texture may soften after two days.
Q: Is this salad good for kids?
A: Yes. It is sweet and soft, so kids usually like it. Omit nuts for young children.
Q: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended. Cool Whip and fruit can change texture when frozen.
Conclusion
For a classic step-by-step Ambrosia guide and more tips, see Ambrosia Salad Recipe – Tastes Better From Scratch.
Easter Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cool Whip, mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, grapes, and chopped nuts if using.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to stir too hard to avoid breaking the fruit.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld.