Original Ambrosia Salad (Nana's 5 Cup Salad)
User Reviews
5
Original Ambrosia Salad (Nana's 5 Cup Salad)
Description
This version of the classic Ambrosia Salad brings together canned mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks for a burst of citrus sweetness, balanced by the creamy sour cream base. Miniature marshmallows add a light chewiness, while shredded sweetened coconut contributes both flavor and a slight texture variation. The ingredients are simply combined and chilled for several hours, allowing the flavors to intermingle and the salad to thicken slightly.
The salad works well as a sweet side dish or light dessert, often served during gatherings or holidays. Its combination of fruit and creamy elements makes it a nostalgic comfort food with a characteristic sweetness and mild tang.
The notes suggest substituting low-fat sour cream for a lighter version or vanilla-flavored yogurt for a different flavor profile. Optional toppings like pecans and maraschino cherries can provide added crunch and visual appeal. Adjustments to ingredient quantities and mix-ins can personalize the salad, maintaining its core creamy fruit essence.
Ingredients
- one ounces mandarin oranges canned, whole, drained
- one ounces pineapple chunks canned, drained
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup coconut sweetened shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Stir together until combined thoroughly.
- Cover the top with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a 3-4 hours. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- Low-fat sour cream can replace regular sour cream to reduce fat content, suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Vanilla-flavored yogurt is an alternative to sour cream, offering a different but enjoyable flavor.
- Adding pecans provides extra crunch, while maraschino cherries enhance color and presentation.
- Ingredients can be adjusted or supplemented according to taste preferences without altering the salad's character.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 175 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 175kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 12g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 19mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 76mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 104mg | 2% |
| Sugar | 12g | 24% |
| Vitamin A | 240IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 44mg | 4% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.