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+ servings

Classic California Ambrosia Salad

A creamy, no-bake dessert salad with perfectly balanced fruit and marshmallows, a California twist on a beloved classic.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dessert, No-Bake Desserts, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 295

Ingredients
  

Creamy Base
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 8 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed such as Cool Whip
Fruits and Mix-Ins
  • 8 oz canned pineapple tidbits drained well
  • 11 oz canned mandarin oranges drained well
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows about 3.5 oz
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut about 3 oz
  • 10 oz maraschino cherries drained, halved if desired
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans toasted for extra flavor

Method
 

Prepare the Fruits
  1. Drain the pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries thoroughly in a colander. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Make the Creamy Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream and thawed whipped topping until smooth and fully combined.
Combine and Chill
  1. Gently fold the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans into the creamy mixture until evenly distributed.
  2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled, to allow the flavors to meld. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 2gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 75mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30g

Notes

For the best texture, make sure all canned fruits are very well drained to avoid a watery salad. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor. If you prefer a less sweet salad, use unsweetened shredded coconut. This salad can be made a day ahead, but add the pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy. For a fun California twist, swap half the pecans with chopped almonds from the Central Valley.

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