Potluck Ambrosia

When it comes to bringing a dish to a family gathering or neighborhood cookout, this Potluck Ambrosia is an absolute must-have. This classic dessert salad comes together in mere minutes, requiring zero cooking and minimal prep work.

A Sweet and Creamy Classic

The secret to a perfect ambrosia is the balance of textures and flavors. Sweet, bright fruits like crushed pineapple, fresh oranges, and bright maraschino cherries are folded into a rich, creamy base made from sour cream and whipped topping. Shredded coconut and fluffy mini marshmallows add a signature chewy texture that makes this nostalgic dish so irresistible. Just be sure to give it enough time to chill in the fridge so the flavors can fully meld before serving!

Also Read : Piri Piri Chicken Recipe

Potluck Ambrosia

Recipe by RecipesVilla

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

Calories

219

kcal

Ingredients

• 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained

• 8 ounces pineapple tidbits, drained

• 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained well

• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented

• 1 can mandarins (optional)

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

• 8 ounces sour cream

• 1 cup whipped topping

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

Directions

• Combine the Fruit and Coconut: In a large serving bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, drained pineapple tidbits, well-drained maraschino cherries, peeled and segmented oranges, optional mandarins, and the shredded sweetened coconut.
• Add the Creamy Base: Stir the sour cream and whipped topping into the fruit mixture, mixing gently until everything is evenly coated.
• Fold in the Marshmallows: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows so they don’t get crushed.
• Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the ambrosia in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

• Drain Well: To prevent your ambrosia salad from becoming watery as it sits, make sure you thoroughly drain the canned pineapple and maraschino cherries before adding them to the bowl! You can even pat the cherries dry with a paper towel.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish actually tastes better when it has time to sit, making it the perfect make-ahead recipe for a busy potluck day.
• Customization: Feel free to swap out the fruits based on what you have in your pantry. Canned fruit cocktail or fresh grapes also make excellent additions to the mix.