Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, sweet, and fluffy side dish — a classic favorite for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. This rich fruit salad typically includes a mixture of sweet fruits, miniature marshmallows, coconut, and a creamy base made with whipped topping or sour cream. It’s a nostalgic treat that brings a bit of happiness in every bite.
Total Time
15 minutes (plus 1 hour chill time)
Ingredients
1 (15 ounce) can mandarin orange segments, drained
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved (without stems)
1 cup sour cream or whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
Instructions
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mandarin orange segments, crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, coconut, maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts (if using).
Add creamy base: Fold in the sour cream or whipped topping until everything is evenly blended.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend together and for the salad to chill.
Serve: Serve chilled as a side dish or a dessert.
Tips for Making Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad
Start with high‐quality ingredients:
Choose sweet, juice-rich fruits (like orange segments, strawberries, or pomegranate seeds) alongside briny Mediterranean components (olives, artichokes, or fetta) for contrast.
Balance sweet and salty:
Consider adding a small amount of sea salt or a crumble of Feta to balance the natural sugars in the fruit.
Add texture:
Consider adding toasted almonds, pistachios, or pine nuts for a nice crunch.
Play with herbs:
Fresh mint or basil can make your salad feel even more Mediterranean.
Dress lightly:
A simple blend of extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a drizzle of honey ties all the ingredients together.
Variations to Try
Classic Ambrosia with a Mediterranean twist:
Oranges, strawberries, pomegranate
Coconut flakes
Feta or mozzarella balls
Mint leaves
Light honey-citrus dressing
Mediterranean Chickpea Ambrosia:
Chickpeas
Cucumbers
Kalamata olives
Cherry tomatoes
Feta
Red onion
Herbs (oregano or thyme)
Lemon juice + olive oil
Tropical Mediterranean Fusion:
Pineapple
Mango
Oranges
Coconut
Mint
Sprinkle with pistachios
Q&A — Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad
Q: What makes Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad different from traditional ambrosia?
A: Traditional ambrosia typically includes canned fruit, marshmallows, and whipped cream. Mediterranean Ambrosia focuses on fresh fruit, briny elements, herbs, and a light, healthy dressing — reflecting the Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on simplicity, flavor, and texture.
Q: Is Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad a healthy option?
A: Yes! It’s rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The addition of healthy fats from olives, nuts, and olive oil further contributes to a well-balanced meal or side dish.
Q: How can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the salad up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the herbs, nuts, or delicate ingredients (like Feta) at the last moment to keep everything fresh.
Nutrition (approximation per 1-cup serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrate: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 12g
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 220mg
Vitamin C: 30mg (50% Daily Value)
Calcium: 100mg (10% Daily Value)
Iron: 0.7mg (4% Daily Value)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad is a delicious blend of sweet, salty, creamy, and tangy flavors — a perfect side or light meal for warm days. Rich in nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats, it brings together the best of Mediterranean cuisine in a simple, versatile, and festive dish. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering, a picnic, or a casual dinner, Mediterranean Ambrosia Salad is sure to impress with its color, texture, and health benefits.