A can of cream of mushroom soup can be a real dinner saver. It works great in casseroles and can turn into a sauce or gravy in a pinch.
Five Cup Salad
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Here's a sweet little recipe that throws coconut, pineapple, and a sprinkle of nostalgia together in one light salad. Add some miniature marshmallows, and you'll be glad you clicked here.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
7 reviews
3 comments
ingredients
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup pineapple chunks, well drained
1 cup mandarin oranges, well drained
1 cup miniature marshmallows
directions
Combine the sour cream, coconut, pineapple, and oranges in a large bowl and mix until the ingredients are well distributed. Fold in the miniature marshmallows.
Place the salad in the refrigerator for one hour (at least) to chill before serving.
recipe tips
Toast the coconut before adding it for a nuttier flavor and added crunch.
Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
Use low-fat or light sour cream for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing creaminess.
For a bit of zest, add a splash of lime or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Serve the salad in individual cups for a more formal presentation.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for a twist that complements the sweetness of the salad.
Use mini chocolate chips as a fun garnish for a different dessert-like experience.
common recipe questions
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative for sour cream, adding a tangy flavor while keeping the creamy texture.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for this recipe?
You could use a non-dairy sour cream or coconut yogurt to replace the sour cream for a vegan option, but the flavor may vary slightly.
How long should I chill the salad?
It is recommended to chill the salad for at least one hour; however, chilling it longer (up to several hours) can improve the flavors.
Can I add other fruits to this salad?
You can add other fruits like diced apples, grapes, or bananas, but consider the moisture content to avoid making the salad too watery.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. It will start to become watery after 2 days.
Can the salad be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze it because the texture of the fruits and sour cream may change after thawing, leading to a watery consistency.
Are there any tips for making this salad look more appealing?
Consider layering the ingredients in a clear bowl or serving dish, or adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top for added texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the salad?
You can adjust the sweetness by using unsweetened coconut or reducing the number of mini marshmallows for a less sweet version, or mixing some sugar or sugar substitute into the sour cream to increase the sugar.
tools needed
Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the sour cream, coconut, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and marshmallows.
Measuring Cups: For measuring 1 cup of each ingredient, including sour cream, coconut, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and miniature marshmallows.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing the ingredients together in the large mixing bowl.
Colander: To drain the pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges before adding them to the salad, making sure the mixture is not overly watery.
what goes with it?
Grilled Chicken: Serving grilled chicken alongside gives a savory counterpoint that balances the sweetness in the salad. The smoky flavor of the chicken enhances the overall meal.
Pork Tenderloin: The mildness of pork tenderloin allows the salad's fruitiness to shine while still providing a substantial protein option.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of dark chocolate over individual servings can introduce a rich contrast.
Cinnamon Graham Crackers: Offer cinnamon graham crackers as a side. They add a subtle spice and crunch that can add to the overall experience without overwhelming the dish.
nutrition data
224 calories, 15 grams fat, 22 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium.
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reviews & comments
We made this Ambrosia Salad for our monthly breakfast. Everyone just loved it. We used the sour cream, pineapple wedges, tropical fruit mix, cherries & coconut. Everyone commented how delicious it was. Thank you for sharing.
March 15, 2012
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe!! I was having spur of the moment guests over for dinner and your Ambrosia Salad was the quickest and easiest desert ever! It was enjoyed by everyone!! I will definitely make it again and again. :)
this is the best! kids love it. its easy to make,and lasts a long time
Hi, this tastes better with a little adjustments. Make the pineapple crushed, and cut the marachino cherries in half, color the coconut with some cherry juice, but don't make it soupy, drain everything really well. Add in some cool whip! Both the cool whip and the sour cream complement each other and with all the fruit ingredients well draines and dried off, the cool whip and sour cream make it so cramy and delicious! Save a few pieces of each fruit to decorate the top too! ENJOY!!
November 21, 2010
This was the holiday dish I always looked forward to as a child. My Mother never had a written recipe so when I found this I was thrilled.
June 25, 2010
I've made this several times for holidays and am always told how great it is.
August 7, 2009
I love this recipe for taking to a potluck. You can put it on the salad end of the table or with the desserts, depending on the need for either. It's so easy! Remember to make it the night before so the sour cream and fruit juices can be soaked up by the marshmallows and coconut.
May 24, 2009
My Grandmother also made this salad. It is a great receipe.
October 11, 2008
I am an occupational therapist and I tried this recipe with 16 high school age children that have various disabilities and who are extremely picky eaters. They ate it up. They came back for seconds and thirds, and so did I ;)
November 10, 2006
My Grandma has made this salad for as long as I can remember. It's one of my favorites!