I am so excited to share this with you because ambrosia salad always reminds me of my grandmother’s holiday table. It is the one dish that really brings everyone together with those sweet and creamy flavors that feel so nostalgic. This version is light and refreshing and it is just incredibly easy to put together. You are going to love how the fluffy marshmallows soak up the fruit juices to create the most perfect texture. Whether you are hosting a big summer barbecue or a cozy festive dinner this dish is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Why This Is the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

I really think this recipe stands out because it hits that perfect balance between sweetness and a little bit of tang. A lot of versions you find are way too heavy but I like to use a blend of Greek yogurt and whipped cream to keep it feeling light. You get a great burst of citrus from the oranges and a little tropical touch from the coconut. It is just a timeless classic that never goes out of style and always disappears fast at parties.

Ingredients for the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

I always suggest using high quality canned fruits to keep things consistent and easy. Here is what you will need to grab from the store.

1 cup heavy whipping cream whipped up until it forms stiff peaks
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt which I use instead of sour cream for a much smoother finish
1 can of mandarin oranges drained really well
1 can of pineapple tidbits also drained well
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
2 cups miniature marshmallows you can use the multicolored ones or just plain white
1/2 cup maraschino cherries that have been patted dry and cut in half
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts if you want a little extra crunch

Choosing the Right Fruit

The big secret to a great salad is removing as much liquid as you possibly can. I usually let my canned oranges and pineapples sit in a colander for at least ten minutes. If the fruit is too wet the cream will start to break down and everything gets runny. For the cherries make sure you pat them dry with a paper towel so the red juice does not stain the entire salad pink.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Just follow these simple steps to make your own masterpiece. It only takes about fifteen minutes of actual work but the chilling time is the most important part for the best results.

In a large mixing bowl gently fold the Greek yogurt into the whipped cream until it looks nice and smooth.
Gently add in your drained mandarin oranges and the pineapple tidbits and those cherries.
Fold in the shredded coconut and all those miniature marshmallows.
If you are adding nuts stir them in last so they stay nice and crunchy.
Cover the bowl tightly with some plastic wrap.
Put it in the refrigerator for at least two hours before you serve it because this allows the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to really meld together.

Pro Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

I hear from people all the time wondering why their salad turned out watery. This usually happens if you stir it too hard or if you try to skip the chilling step. You want to use a rubber spatula and a very gentle over and under folding motion. Even if you are in a big rush do not skip the fridge time. Those marshmallows need that time to absorb the cream which is what creates that signature fluff texture. If you want a more tropical flavor you can even add a tiny splash of pineapple juice instead of using any extracts.

How to Store the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

You should keep your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for about three days. You might notice a little bit of liquid at the bottom after the first day but you can just give it a gentle stir before you serve it again. I do not recommend freezing this salad at all. The dairy and the fruit will separate when it thaws out and you will end up with a really unpleasant texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruit?

Yes you can definitely use fresh oranges and pineapple. Just make sure they are really ripe and sweet. Fresh fruit tends to release more juice so you might want to serve the salad right after that two hour chill time.

Can I make this dairy free?

You can substitute the whipped cream and the yogurt with coconut based alternatives. It actually makes the flavor even more tropical and delicious.

Is this salad a dessert or a side dish?

In my family it serves as both. It is sweet enough to be a dessert but it is refreshing enough to go right alongside savory dishes like roasted chicken or beef.

Nutritional Information for the Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe

This data is just an estimate for a one cup serving size.

Calories 210 kcal
Total Fat 11g
Saturated Fat 8g
Cholesterol 15mg
Sodium 45mg
Total Carbohydrates 28g
Dietary Fiber 2g
Sugars 22g
Protein 2g