Tropical Delight Ambrosia Salad

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you're looking for a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic dish, this Tropical Delight Ambrosia Salad is just for you. It's a vibrant mix of juicy fruits, creamy dressing, and a touch of crunch to brighten up any gathering. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish to your holiday feast!

Ingredients for Tropical Delight Ambrosia Salad

Seedless grapes bring a juicy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the other fruits. Fresh pineapple adds a tropical tanginess that elevates the salad. Mango offers a smooth, luscious texture and a bit of exotic flair. Kiwi lends a tart contrast and a vibrant green color. Mini marshmallows give a playful touch of sweetness and softness. Shredded sweetened coconut adds a chewy texture and a hint of the tropics. Sour cream is the creamy base that binds everything together with a slight tang. Chopped pecans provide a crunchy, nutty element. Pomegranate arils add a pop of color and a burst of juicy flavor. Honey sweetens the dressing naturally. Finally, vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use ripe but firm fruits to avoid a mushy salad.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and ingredients beforehand for a fresher result.
  • Toast the pecans for added depth and flavor.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this ambrosia salad with grilled chicken or fish for a light and refreshing meal. It's also a great addition to brunch spreads, especially alongside savory dishes like quiche or frittata. For a festive touch, serve it in individual dessert cups with a sprig of mint on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned fruits?
Fresh fruits are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but canned fruits can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well.
How long will this salad keep?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh for the most vibrant flavors.
What if I'm allergic to nuts?
You can omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or granola for added crunch.

Tropical Delight Ambrosia Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Toss in your seedless grapes, diced pineapple, mango, and kiwi. Make sure everything is evenly diced so you get a bit of each fruit in every bite. Next, gently fold in the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut. You want to mix without mashing the fruits.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined. This is your dressing, and it should have a creamy consistency with a hint of sweetness.

Pour the dressing over your fruit and marshmallow mixture. Stir gently, ensuring everything is well coated. You want all the flavors to meld without turning the fruits into mush.

Transfer your salad into a serving dish. Sprinkle the top with chopped pecans and pomegranate arils. These not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.

Pop the salad into the refrigerator for at least an hour. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up a bit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table.
  • Easy to prepare with no cooking required.
  • The perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy.
  • Can be made in advance, saving you time on busy days.

Ingredients

1 cup seedless grapes
1 cup diced fresh pineapple
1 cup diced mango
1 cup sliced kiwi
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup pomegranate arils
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grapes, pineapple, mango, and kiwi.
2. Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the sour cream mixture over the fruit and marshmallow mixture, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with chopped pecans and pomegranate arils.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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