Vintage recipe alert! Try this Hawaii-inspired Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad made with whipped topping, coconut, and tropical fruits. It’s THE classic recipe for creating the creamy dessert salad that everyone knows and loves. Perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or holiday celebrations, this delightful dish brings a taste of paradise to your table. Its vibrant colors and sweet flavors are sure to impress guests of all ages!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this refreshing fruit salad in no time.
- Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of coconut, pineapple, and mandarins delivers a delightful taste of Hawaii.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a dessert or a side salad; it fits perfectly into any meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This classic recipe is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it ideal for gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad in advance and chill it until you’re ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Serving spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that the whipped topping mixes smoothly with other ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the perfect balance of flavors in your fruit salad.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded, sweetened coconut
– 2 cups mini white marshmallows
– 1 (11 oz) can mandarins; drained
– 1 cup pineapple chunks; drained
– 1 cup green grapes
– 1 1/2 cups frozen whipped topping; thawed
– 1 Tablespoon milk
– 1 cup maraschino cherries
How to Make Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Step 1: Combine the Fruits
In a large mixing bowl, add the following ingredients:
1. 2 cups shredded coconut
2. Drained mandarins from the can
3. Drained pineapple chunks
4. Green grapes
5. Mini white marshmallows
Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Topping
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together the thawed whipped topping and tablespoon of milk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the whipped topping mixture to the fruit bowl:
1. Gently stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover your bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour:
1. Just before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries on top for a festive touch.
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad as a sweet treat or side dish at your next event!
How to Serve Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this vintage recipe.
As a Side Dish
- Summer Barbecues: This creamy salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats and adds a refreshing touch to any summer meal.
- Picnics: Pack it in individual cups for easy serving, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings.
As a Dessert
- After Dinner Delight: Serve chilled in small bowls for a light and sweet finish to your meal.
- Potluck Favorite: This dish is always a hit at potlucks. Bring a large bowl to share, and watch it disappear!
Garnishing Ideas
- Maraschino Cherries: Top each serving with maraschino cherries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Mint Leaves: Add fresh mint leaves as garnish for an aromatic touch that complements the fruit.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Making Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad is simple, but these tips will help you achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh fruits when possible. They enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
- Thaw Whipped Topping Properly: Ensure the whipped topping is completely thawed for a smooth consistency when mixing.
- Refrigerate Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for at least an hour allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of marshmallows or coconut used in the recipe.
- Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to add other tropical fruits like mango or kiwi for variety and additional flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad complements many delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in herbs makes a savory pairing with this sweet salad.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the creaminess of the fruit salad perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful contrast to the fruity flavors, especially during summer meals.
- Potato Salad: A classic side dish that adds heartiness to your meal without overshadowing the ambrosia.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes offer a refreshing taste that works well alongside tropical flavors.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the fruit salad, making it a crowd-pleaser at barbecues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using non-sweetened coconut: Non-sweetened coconut can make your salad less appealing. Always choose sweetened coconut for that authentic taste.
- Not draining canned fruits properly: Excess liquid from canned fruits can make your salad too watery. Make sure to drain mandarins and pineapple well before adding them to the mix.
- Overmixing the whipped topping: Mixing too much can lead to a runny texture. Stir gently until just combined to maintain a fluffy consistency.
- Skipping the chilling step: Serving right away can affect flavors. Refrigerate for at least an hour for best results.
- Neglecting garnish options: Garnishing adds visual appeal. Don’t forget to add maraschino cherries or additional fruit on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- item Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
- item Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the fruit and creaminess of the salad.
- item If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but expect changes in quality upon thawing.
Reheating Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
- Oven: Not applicable; this dish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Microwave: Not recommended; avoid heating as it will change the salad’s texture.
- Stovetop: Not suitable; serving cold is the way to go for this recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad:
What fruits can I add to Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad?
You can add bananas, strawberries, or kiwi for extra flavor and color. Customize based on what you have!
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit works well! Just ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best taste.
How long does Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad last?
The salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Is Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a delightful blend of tropical flavors that everyone will enjoy. Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it a perfect addition to any gathering. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings for a personalized touch!
Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad
- Total Time: 34 minute
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in a taste of paradise with Hawaiian Ambrosia Fruit Salad, a delightful blend of tropical fruits and creamy goodness. This vintage recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations. Featuring shredded coconut, sweet mandarin oranges, and luscious pineapple, this fruit salad is not just visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors, it’s sure to impress guests of all ages. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time—making it an ideal choice for busy hosts. Garnish with maraschino cherries for a festive finish and enjoy a refreshing treat that captures the essence of Hawaii!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 cups mini white marshmallows
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup green grapes
- 1 ½ cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup maraschino cherries
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, green grapes, and mini marshmallows.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together thawed whipped topping and milk until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped topping mixture into the fruit mixture until well combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Garnish with maraschino cherries before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Use fresh fruits whenever possible for enhanced flavor. Experiment with additions like mango or kiwi for extra tropical flair. Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of marshmallows or coconut.
