Tropical Ambrosia Salad

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

Tropical Ambrosia Salad is your ticket to a blissful escape with every bite. Combining fresh tropical fruits and a creamy, dreamy dressing, it's perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a taste of paradise.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of creamy and fruity textures.
  • Quick to prepare and requires no cooking.
  • Great for potlucks and family gatherings.
  • Uses fresh, vibrant ingredients for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
2 cups diced fresh pineapple
2 cups peeled and diced mango
1 cup sliced bananas
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. Toss in your shredded coconut, diced pineapple, mango, bananas, mini marshmallows, and macadamia nuts. Give it a gentle stir to evenly distribute the ingredients. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. Carefully fold the whipped cream into your fruit mixture, ensuring every piece is coated without deflating the cream. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use ripe but firm fruits to keep the texture just right.
  • Chill your mixing bowls for faster, fluffier whipped cream.
  • Toast the macadamia nuts for an extra depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Tropical Ambrosia Salad in a chilled glass bowl for an elegant presentation. Pair it with grilled seafood or chicken for a refreshing, balanced meal. It also shines as a dessert centerpiece at barbecues and picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
What if I can't find fresh pineapple or mango?
Canned fruits can work in a pinch, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

Ingredients Explained

Sweetened shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and a hint of tropical sweetness, tying the whole salad together. Diced fresh pineapple is juicy and tangy, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the creaminess. Peeled and diced mango enhances the tropical vibe with its smooth texture and sweet flavor. Sliced bananas offer a mild sweetness and soft texture that complements the other fruits. Mini marshmallows add a fun, fluffy element, making each bite a delightful surprise. Heavy whipping cream, sweetened with powdered sugar, creates a rich, luscious dressing that binds everything together. A touch of vanilla extract infuses a warm, aromatic note, while chopped macadamia nuts bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, diced pineapple, mango, bananas, mini marshmallows, and macadamia nuts.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the fruit and nut mixture until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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