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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
– Drain both the **pineapple chunks** and **mandarin oranges** and set them aside. Make sure to reserve a little of the juice for the dressing or to help adjust the consistency later on.
– If using **maraschino cherries**, drain the liquid and cut them in half to make them easier to mix in with the rest of the ingredients.
#### Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Base
– In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the **heavy whipping cream** until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed.
– Gently fold in **sour cream** (if using) to the whipped cream, along with a tablespoon of the **orange juice** from the reserved fruit juice. This gives the salad a smooth texture and a slight citrusy flavor.
#### Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
– To the whipped cream mixture, add the **pineapple chunks**, **mandarin oranges**, **maraschino cherries**, and **mini marshmallows**. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking up the fruit.
– If you’re adding **shredded coconut**, now’s the time to toss it in for a tropical flair and added texture.
#### Step 4: Chill and Serve
– Once everything is mixed together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least **2 hours** to let the flavors meld. This gives the Ambrosia Salad its signature chilled, creamy texture.
– When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle stir and enjoy!
### Variations and Tips:
– **Add More Fruit**: Some variations of Ambrosia Salad include other fruits such as **grapes**, **bananas**, or **apples**. Get creative and customize the recipe with whatever fruits you love!
– **Use Greek Yogurt**: For a healthier alternative, swap the sour cream for **Greek yogurt** for a bit of tang and a creamy consistency without the extra calories.
– **Coconut-Free**: If you’re not a fan of shredded coconut, feel free to leave it out—Ambrosia Salad will still be delicious.
– **Sweetened Whipped Topping**: For a faster version, you can replace the homemade whipped cream with **store-bought whipped topping**. Just fold it into the fruit mixture instead of whipping your own cream.
### Why Ambrosia Salad Is the Perfect Side Dish:
Ambrosia Salad is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s sweet without being overly sugary, and it offers a nice balance between creamy and fruity. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or as a side dish to your main meal, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly! It pairs especially well with savory dishes like **grilled meats**, **BBQs**, or **holiday roasts**.
This salad’s versatility also means you can make it your own. Add a handful of your favorite fruits or even swap in a different topping. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight treat or bring it to a potluck, it’s the kind of recipe that’s always a hit.
### Conclusion:
Ambrosia Salad has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s an easy, refreshing dessert (or side dish) that combines the best of fruity sweetness with creamy richness. Perfect for any occasion, this classic recipe is sure to become a go-to in your recipe box.
Give this recipe a try the next time you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. Once you taste it, you’ll see why **Ambrosia Salad** has been a family favorite for generations!
**Enjoy your ambrosia salad, and remember—it’s the perfect way to add a little sweetness to any meal!**
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