Description

A classic Easter Ambrosia Salad that combines sweet mini marshmallows, juicy mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries, all coated in a creamy vanilla-infused sour cream dressing. Optional chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, making this salad a refreshing and festive addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Mix-ins

1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
1 cup maraschino cherries, halved

Dressing

1 cup sour cream (can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

Combine fruits and marshmallows: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and halved maraschino cherries. Gently toss them together until evenly mixed to ensure every bite has a good balance of flavors.
Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which will add sweetness and a fragrant note to the salad.
Mix dressing with fruit: Pour the sour cream mixture over the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the ingredients to coat them evenly without breaking up the fruits.
Add nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts now to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.
Chill: Transfer the ambrosia salad to a serving dish or storage container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly before serving.
Serve: Serve the Easter Ambrosia Salad chilled as a sweet and refreshing side dish or dessert, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Notes

Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter, tangier version.
Use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut based on your preference for sweetness.
For added texture, you can substitute or add other nuts like almonds or cashews.
This salad is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish, Dessert
Method: No-cook, Mix and Chill
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 45 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: Easter salad, Ambrosia salad, fruit salad, holiday side dish, creamy fruit salad, festive salad