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### **Instructions:**
**1. Cook the Pasta:**
Start by boiling the acini di pepe pasta according to the package directions. Typically, it will take about 8-10 minutes to cook until tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down quickly. Set it aside to drain completely.
**2. Make the Dressing:**
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, pineapple juice, and cornstarch. Stir this mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle boil. Keep stirring as it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Next, whisk in the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and fully combined. Allow the dressing to cool completely before adding it to the pasta mixture.
**3. Combine the Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled acini di pepe pasta. Pour the cooled dressing over the pasta, and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
**4. Add the Fruits:**
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut (if using). Be careful not to break up the fruit too much—this salad is all about maintaining texture and freshness.
**5. Chill and Serve:**
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together, and the pasta absorbs more of the creamy dressing.
**6. Serve:**
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with a few extra mini marshmallows or coconut if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness!
### **Tips and Variations:**
– **Add Nuts:** For extra texture and a little crunch, you can stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts.
– **Swap Fruits:** While pineapple and mandarin oranges are the classic fruits in Frog Eye Salad, feel free to get creative. Chopped strawberries, grapes, or cherries can add a fresh twist to the salad.
– **Make It Lighter:** If you want to lighten up the recipe, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or substitute the mayonnaise with a lighter version or even plain yogurt.
– **Whipped Topping:** If you want an extra creamy texture, fold in a small container of whipped topping or cool whip just before serving.
– **Make-Ahead:** Frog Eye Salad is great for making ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to improve the longer it sits, making it perfect for meal prepping for parties, holidays, or family gatherings.
### **Why Frog Eye Salad Stands Out:**
Frog Eye Salad is a delightful dessert salad that blends creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy flavors with a fun, playful texture from the acini di pepe pasta. The combination of sweet marshmallows, fresh fruit, and a creamy dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Its easy-to-make nature and ability to be prepared in advance also make it a perfect choice for busy hosts and home cooks who want to impress with minimal effort.
While the name might sound unusual, it’s a charming and memorable dish that has stood the test of time as a beloved family recipe. Whether it’s the star at a summer picnic, the showstopper at Thanksgiving, or the go-to dish at a potluck, Frog Eye Salad is sure to steal the spotlight.
### **Final Thoughts:**
Give Frog Eye Salad a try at your next gathering! It’s a fun, creamy, and sweet treat that will be the talk of the table. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it an unforgettable dish that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, whip up this simple and delicious salad, and let its nostalgic charm bring joy to your next meal. Enjoy!
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