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+ servings

Ultimate California Ambrosia Salad

A creamy, no-bake dessert salad with perfectly drained fruit, toasted coconut, and a tangy-sweet dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dessert, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Fruit & Mix-Ins
  • 1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits drained well
  • 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges drained well
  • 10 oz jar maraschino cherries drained and halved
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut toasted, if desired
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans toasted, if desired
Creamy Base
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 8 oz container frozen whipped topping thawed

Method
 

Prep the Fruit
  1. Drain the pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat the fruit dry with paper towels if needed to remove excess moisture.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream and thawed whipped topping until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Gently fold the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans into the creamy mixture until evenly distributed.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This allows the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 85mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30g

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the shredded coconut and pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, then let cool before adding. Make sure all fruit is very well drained to avoid a watery salad. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half the sour cream for a tangier taste. This salad is best made a day ahead to let the marshmallows soften slightly. Serve chilled as a side dish or light dessert.

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