Ambrosia Salad (Small)

6-8 servings servings Prep: 10 m Cook: PT0M Total: 2 h 10 m Beginner
4.0/5 (1)
Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad
Classic Southern ambrosia salad with pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, fruit cocktail, marshmallows, coconut, cherries, and sour cream. A colorful, creamy fruit salad that’s perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

6-8 servings servings
  • 1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits
  • 1 (16 oz) can fruit cocktail
  • 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges
  • ½ (11 oz) bag miniature marshmallows
  • ½ (14 oz) bag shredded coconut
  • 1 (10 oz) jar cherries
  • 1 pint sour cream
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Drain all the fruit well for 2 hours before mixing - this prevents the salad from becoming watery.
  2. In medium bowl combine the drained pineapple tidbits, fruit cocktail, mandarin oranges, cherries, miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, sour cream, and chopped pecans. Mix gently until well combined.
  3. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my ambrosia salad watery?

A: Make sure to drain the canned fruits thoroughly for at least 2 hours before mixing. You can even pat them dry with paper towels for best results.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, ambrosia salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Tips and Techniques

For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding them to the salad. The salad tastes best when served cold.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • sour cream: Cool Whip or whipped cream
  • pecans: walnuts or sliced almonds
  • maraschino cherries: dried cranberries or fresh grapes

Equipment Needed

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Strainer or colander for draining fruit

Historical Context

Ambrosia salad has been a Southern tradition since the late 1800s when exotic canned fruits became widely available. The name comes from Greek mythology, where ambrosia was the food of the gods.