Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
This classic ambrosia salad recipe is a no-cook, small-batch dessert or side that stays light and soft. It uses canned and fresh fruit with a gentle yogurt dressing for a creamy, easy texture.
Making ambrosia this way keeps steps simple and cleanup minimal. You do not need a mixer or special tools. The soft fruit and yogurt make it easy to eat and gentle on the stomach.
Portion size is small by design. This helps avoid waste and keeps the salad fresh when you want a quick, comforting treat or light side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained or about 5 to 6 fresh segments
- 1/2 cup canned pineapple tidbits, drained and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup seedless grapes, halved or 1/4 cup canned cherries, drained
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or a mild vanilla style yogurt for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional and to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped soft nuts such as toasted walnuts or pecans – optional
- 1 tablespoon mini marshmallows – optional for classic texture
- Fresh orange zest, a small pinch, optional for brightness
- Pinch of salt, optional
Serves 1 to 2. You can serve this ambrosia salad on its own, spooned over soft cake, or with a slice of soft bread if you like.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Place the drained mandarin oranges and pineapple in a medium bowl. If using fresh fruit, peel and chop the fruit into bite-size pieces so it is easy to eat.
- Add the halved grapes, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts if using. If you prefer a softer texture, skip the nuts or chop them very fine.
- In a small cup, stir the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup if using. Add a small pinch of salt and a little orange zest for flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness gently.
- Fold the yogurt dressing into the fruit mixture until evenly coated. Add mini marshmallows last if using to keep them fluffy.
- Cover and chill for 10 to 20 minutes to let flavors meld and to soften the fruit slightly. Stir gently before serving.
Tips and Easy Variations
Texture and chewing
- Omit nuts and marshmallows for an easier to chew salad
- Chop nuts very finely if you want some crunch without large pieces
- Use fruit packed in juice not syrup to keep pieces soft
Light and digestion
- Use plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter dressing
- Skip the added honey if you need to limit sugar
- Choose fruit packed in juice and drain well to reduce extra sweetness
Quick and simple
- Use all canned fruit, well drained, and fold together without chilling
- Stir in a mashed ripe banana for extra creaminess and natural sweetness
- Add mini marshmallows at the end to keep them fluffy
Key tips to remember
- Adjust mix ins to suit chewing ability and taste
- Use unsweetened yogurt and skip added sweetener if desired
- Chill briefly to let flavors meld but do not freeze
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Stir gently before serving as fruit will release some juice.
Freezer
Do not freeze. Yogurt separates and becomes watery when thawed, so freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
Do not reheat. Serve chilled and stir gently to redistribute any juices before serving.
Conclusion
Give this classic ambrosia salad recipe a try for a soft, no-cook treat that is simple and gentle. It is quick to make and keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge.
Adjust fruits, sweetener, and mix ins to suit texture and digestion needs. Keep portions small for best freshness and minimal waste.
FAQ
How long will this keep?▶
Keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 48 hours. Stir gently before serving.
Can I make this dairy free?▶
Yes. Swap Greek yogurt for a plain dairy free yogurt such as coconut or almond style for a similar creaminess.
Are marshmallows required?▶
No. They are optional. Leaving them out makes the salad easier to chew and less sweet.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?▶
Yes. Fresh fruit works well. Cut into small, soft pieces and consider gently mashing firmer fruit for an easier bite.
Is this suitable as a light side dish?▶
Yes. Its small portion and mild flavors make it a nice light side for soft mains or as a gentle dessert.
