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Easy Pioneer Woman Ambrosia Salad

Pioneer Woman Ambrosia Salad

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Pioneer Woman Ambrosia Salad is a nostalgic dessert that’s as delightful as its name suggests. With its roots in Southern traditions, this creamy, fruit-filled dish is a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. Inspired by the hearty and flavorful approach of the Pioneer Woman, this recipe puts a twist on a classic by keeping it simple, accessible, and irresistibly delicious. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dreamy Ambrosia Salad:

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup Cool Whip (or whipped topping)
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
  • 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
  • ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved (optional, but recommended)
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • ½ cup seedless green or red grapes, halved (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh mint leaves
  • A sprinkle of toasted coconut
  • A few whole maraschino cherries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Drain your fruits thoroughly: Pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges can release a lot of liquid, so let them sit in a strainer for a few minutes. If you’re using maraschino cherries, blot them gently with paper towels to avoid bleeding into the salad.
  2. Halve the grapes: If you’re including grapes, slice them in half for a more even texture.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and Cool Whip. Stir until smooth and creamy. This forms the luscious base of your Ambrosia Salad.

Step 3: Fold in the Ingredients

  1. Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and any optional add-ins like cherries, nuts, or grapes. Be gentle to avoid breaking apart the fruit.
  2. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together and the marshmallows soften.
  2. Before serving, give it a quick stir, garnish with your choice of toppings, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: High-quality fruits make a world of difference. Opt for fresh-tasting canned fruits and unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sugary salad.
  2. Customize to Your Tastes: Feel free to skip or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. No coconut? No problem—try adding extra marshmallows or another fruit.
  3. Don’t Skip the Chilling Time: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Storage Instructions

Ambrosia Salad stores beautifully when handled properly:

  • Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.
  • Freezer: While freezing isn’t recommended due to the creamy base, you can freeze individual portions in a pinch. Thaw overnight in the fridge before eating, but note the texture may change slightly.

Variations

Here are a few ways to make this classic recipe your own:

  1. Healthier Twist: Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use light whipped topping for a lower-calorie option.
  2. Tropical Flair: Add diced mango or papaya, and sprinkle with toasted macadamia nuts.
  3. Chocolate Ambrosia: Toss in mini chocolate chips or drizzle a little chocolate syrup over the top for a decadent variation.
  4. No-Coconut Version: If you’re not a fan of coconut, leave it out and increase the marshmallows slightly to maintain the texture.

Nutrition Details

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition for a serving of Ambrosia Salad (based on 10 servings):

  • Calories: ~200
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQ

1. Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is actually better when made a day in advance, as the flavors meld together and the marshmallows soften for a perfect texture.

2. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Absolutely. Fresh pineapple and oranges work beautifully, but you’ll need to peel, chop, and drain them thoroughly.

3. What should I serve with Ambrosia Salad?

It pairs well with savory dishes like baked ham, roasted turkey, or a barbecue spread. It’s also fantastic as a dessert on its own.

4. Is Ambrosia Salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients (especially the marshmallows and whipped topping) are certified gluten-free.

5. Can I leave out the nuts?

Of course! Nuts are optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version.

 

Enjoy this delightful Ambrosia Salad recipe—a creamy, fruity treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious! Let us know how you customize yours in the comments below.