Cherry Ambrosia Salad
Cherry Ambrosia Salad is a delightful, vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, making it a staple in many households. Ambrosia salads are known for their versatility, and you can explore various related recipes, such as How To Make Ambrosia Salad Fruit, Orange Fruit Salad Mandarin, and Mandarin Marshmallow Salad. Its lightness makes it an excellent choice for dinner or as a side dish at celebrations, connecting beautifully to Pink Ambrosia Salad, Fruit Salad Ambrosia, Traditional Fruit Salad, and Salads For Parties Holiday.
What is Cherry Ambrosia Salad?
Cherry Ambrosia Salad is a sweet, creamy fruit salad that features fresh cherries as its star ingredient, complemented by other delightful flavors. Typically, it includes mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, sour cream, and mandarin oranges, creating a unique blend of textures and tastes. The dish has its roots in the Southern United States, where ambrosia salads were traditionally served at celebrations and gatherings. This salad remains popular due to its easy preparation and refreshing flavor, making it a go-to choice for various meals and occasions. Its also related to recipes like How To Make Ambrosia Salad Fruit and variations such as Pink Ambrosia Salad.
Ingredients and Directions
Ingredients
This Cherry Ambrosia Salad recipe serves 6 people. Heres what youll need:
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh cherries, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup of mini marshmallows
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of mandarin oranges, drained
- Seasoning Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- Optional Add-Ons:
- Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- Additional fruit (e.g., pineapple or strawberries)
Imagine juicy, ripe cherries bursting with flavor, combined with the sweetness of marshmallows and the richness of coconut!
Directions
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: None (no cooking required)
Start by gathering all the ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and mandarin oranges.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the sour cream mixture into the fruit mixture until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before serving. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also fits well within the realm of Light Food Ideas Dinners.
Serving Sizes for Every Occasion
Scaling the recipe for different gatherings is easy. Heres a handy table:
| Ingredients | Standard (x1) | Double (x2) | Quadruple (x4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh cherries | 2 cups | 4 cups | 8 cups |
| Mini marshmallows | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
| Shredded coconut | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
| Mandarin oranges | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
Recipe Variations
Cherry Ambrosia Salad can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences:
- Dietary Options:
- Use low-fat sour cream for a lighter version.
- For a vegan option, substitute dairy-free yogurt.
- Serving Styles: Serve in individual cups for parties or buffets for added convenience.
- Seasonal Twists: Add seasonal fruits like strawberries in spring or apples in fall to keep it fresh and exciting.
Serving Tips
Enhance your presentation and pairing:
- Consider serving alongside grilled chicken or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- These tips make it an excellent choice for Salads For Parties Holiday.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Cherry Ambrosia Salad is not only convenient but also bursting with flavor and versatility. This dish can easily adapt to various events, making it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners. Its sweet and creamy nature ensures it appeals to both kids and adults, connecting seamlessly to Salads For Parties Holiday.
Pro Tips
Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Always use fresh fruits for the best flavor.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Customizations
Make this dish your own with these delicious variations:
- Low-Carb Option: Replace mini marshmallows with sugar-free alternatives.
- Kid-Friendly Option: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra appeal.
Key Takeaways
- Cherry Ambrosia Salad is perfect for quick, light meals.
- Its customizable for various dietary needs.
- Ideal for parties and holiday gatherings.
FAQs
- What fruits can I use in Cherry Ambrosia Salad? You can use a variety of fruits, including pineapple, grapes, and strawberries.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s best made a few hours in advance to allow flavors to combine.
- Is Cherry Ambrosia Salad gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
- Can I use canned cherries? Fresh cherries are preferred, but canned cherries can be used if drained well.
- How long does Cherry Ambrosia Salad last in the fridge? It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Wed love to hear your thoughts! Share your variations of Cherry Ambrosia Salad in the comments below or connect with us on social media. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like Fruit Salad Ambrosia and Traditional Fruit Salad!
