Name: Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 18 1/2 oz. can fruit cocktail (juices drained); 18 oz. can unsweetened pineapple chunks (juices drained); 1 cup seedless red grapes (cut in half); 1 cup apple chunks (peeled); 1/2 cup chopped pecans or slivered almonds ((optional)); 3/4 cup vanilla yogurt (sour cream can also be used); 1 cup miniature marshmallows; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a bowl of Ambrosia Fruit Salad. I still remember the first time I tasted it at a family gathering; the vibrant colors and delightful textures were enough to make anyone smile. This dish has a way of capturing the essence of summer, even on the grayest of days. Each spoonful brings back memories of warm afternoons spent with loved ones, joyfully sharing stories around the table. The combination of fruits, creamy yogurt, and a hint of sweetness creates a medley that’s not just food—it’s a celebration. Whether it’s a potluck, a picnic, or simply a cheerful side for dinner, Ambrosia Fruit Salad never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8g g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Peeler

The Beauty of This Ambrosia Fruit Salad

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I whip up a batch of Ambrosia Fruit Salad, I know I’m in for a treat. This dish is always a hit, whether at birthday parties or holiday dinners. The vibrant assortment of fruits and the creamy dressing draw people in like moths to a flame. Who can resist that?

Versatility at Its Best

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Prefer grapes over apples? Go for it! Want to add some kiwi or berries? The sky’s the limit! Every version of Ambrosia Fruit Salad I make tastes delicious.

Perfect for Any Season

This salad isn’t just a summer treat; it’s perfect all year round! In the spring, the fresh fruits are delightful, while in the fall, you can add a twist with seasonal fruits like pears. Even in winter, it shines on a holiday table, brightening up the dreary days.

Easy to Prepare

Making Ambrosia Fruit Salad is as simple as it gets. With minimal prep time, you can have a delicious, healthy dish ready in no time. Tossing together a few ingredients never felt so rewarding.

Kid-Friendly

This dish is a fantastic way to sneak some nutrients into your kids’ diets. They’ll love the colorful fruits and sweet flavors, often asking for seconds! It’s a great guilt-free dessert option.

Healthy Yet Indulgent

While it feels indulgent, Ambrosia Fruit Salad is surprisingly healthy. The fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals, and when you use yogurt, it adds a protein kick. It’s a sweet way to incorporate healthy choices into your diet.

Ingredients to Make Ambrosia Fruit Salad

In any fruit salad, the magic lies in the harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet and tart fruits, creamy yogurt, and the crunch of nuts creates a delightful balance. Each ingredient plays its unique role, making Ambrosia Fruit Salad a universally beloved dish.

18 1/2 oz. can fruit cocktail, juices drained
18 oz. can unsweetened pineapple chunks, juices drained
1 cup seedless red grapes, cut in half
1 cup apple chunks, peeled
1/2 cup chopped pecans or slivered almonds (optional)
3/4 cup vanilla yogurt (sour cream can also be used)
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

How to Cook Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Preparing Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a fun and easy process! You’ll love how simple it is to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Follow these steps to make your own delicious fruit salad.

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your fruit cocktail and pineapple chunks are well-drained to avoid excess liquid. This will help keep your salad from becoming soggy.
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained fruit cocktail and pineapple chunks. These form the base of your Ambrosia Fruit Salad and will provide a lovely sweetness.
Next, toss in the seedless red grapes cut in half and the apple chunks. The crunch of the apples combined with the juiciness of the grapes will add great texture.
If you’re using nuts, add your chopped pecans or slivered almonds now. They will give a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness to your dish.
Now it’s time for the creamy part! Add the vanilla yogurt to the bowl. If you prefer, you can substitute with sour cream for a different flavor profile.
Sprinkle in the miniature marshmallows. They add a sweet, chewy texture that balances perfectly with the fresh fruits.
Finally, add the sweetened shredded coconut. This brings a delightful tropical twist to your Ambrosia Fruit Salad.
Gently toss all the ingredients together, making sure everything is well coated in the yogurt.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad until you’re ready to serve. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld.
When you’re ready to enjoy, give the salad a quick stir and serve in individual bowls or on a large platter. You’ll see everyone’s eyes light up once they take a scoop!

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness Matters: Always choose ripe, fresh fruits for the best flavor. This makes a huge difference in your Ambrosia Fruit Salad.
Chill Time: Letting your salad sit for at least an hour in the fridge helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to mix and match fruits according to the season or your personal preference.
Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can serve as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.

Change It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize your Ambrosia Fruit Salad to make it uniquely yours. Here are some suggestions to inspire you:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about three days, but it’s best enjoyed immediately.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the fruits can become mushy once thawed.
Pairing: Ambrosia Fruit Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues.
Substitutions: Feel free to swap the vanilla yogurt for Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
Seasonal Variations: Experiment with seasonal fruits like peaches in summer or pomegranate seeds in winter!

Serving Ideas for Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Serving Ambrosia Fruit Salad can be a fun way to enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

Picnic Delight: Pack the salad in a cooler for outdoor gatherings. It’s refreshing and a great side dish.
Holiday Table: Serve in a beautiful glass bowl to make a stunning centerpiece for any festive occasion.
Breakfast Boost: Add a scoop of Ambrosia Fruit Salad on top of pancakes or waffles for a fruity twist.
Brunch Buffets: This salad is perfect for brunch! It adds color to the spread and compliments savory dishes beautifully.
Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to consume it fresh to enjoy the textures and flavors.
Seasonal Pairings: This dish can be enjoyed year-round, but it shines during the summer months when fruits are at their peak!

FAQ

The main ingredients of Ambrosia Fruit Salad include a mix of fruits such as pineapple, seedless grapes, and apple chunks, along with a creamy dressing made primarily from yogurt. Other additions may include mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and nuts like pecans or almonds. This combination creates a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess, making it a favorite for many occasions.

Absolutely! In fact, Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the ingredients. This makes it a perfect option for potlucks or gatherings!

Yes, Ambrosia Fruit Salad can be a healthy dessert option! It’s packed with fresh fruits, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Using yogurt instead of heavier dressings helps keep the overall calories in check. Plus, the salad contains fiber that aids digestion. Customize it by adding walnuts or almonds for healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ambrosia Fruit Salad is perfect for a variety of occasions! It’s a popular choice for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, and family reunions. Its refreshing taste makes it a hit at brunches or as a side dish during dinner. You can also serve it as a light dessert, making it versatile enough for any event!

Conclusion

What makes Ambrosia Fruit Salad special is its delightful combination of flavors and textures that evoke warmth and nostalgia. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering; it’s sure to be a hit that leaves everyone smiling and satisfied.