Description
A sweet, creamy, and effortless fruit salad that is perfect for summer BBQs and parties. This make-ahead dish combines pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and pecans for a crowd-pleasing side or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks (in 100% juice, drained well)
- 1 cup (150g) mini marshmallows
- 1 cup (50g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges (in light syrup or juice, drained well)
- 1 tub (12 oz / 340g) Cool Whip (thawed) or fresh whipped cream
- ½ cup (60g) pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
- Optional: Blueberries, sliced bananas, or halved seedless grapes
Instructions
- Drain the canned pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for a few minutes and press gently to remove excess liquid.
- While the fruit drains, chop the pecans. For best flavor, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let them cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple, drained mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
- If using Cool Whip, ensure it is thawed and soft. If using fresh whipped cream, whip to soft peaks. Add the cream to the fruit mixture.
- Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the cream into the fruit using a figure-eight motion until just coated and no white streaks remain. Avoid vigorous stirring to prevent crushing the fruit.
- Stir in the toasted pecans (and any optional fresh fruit like bananas or grapes).
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to allow flavors to meld.
- Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with extra pecans or mint if desired.
Notes
Draining the fruit thoroughly is crucial to prevent a watery salad. Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and helps them stay crunchy. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for Cool Whip and reduce marshmallows. Add bananas or grapes right before serving to prevent browning or mushiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
Keywords: ambrosia salad, fruit salad, labor day recipe, summer side dish, easy dessert, make-ahead salad, picnic food