If you’re like me, summer gatherings mean you’re often tasked with bringing something sweet and refreshing. Think about that classic barbecue vibe when juicy burgers sizzle on the grill, and cold drinks are passed around like holiday cheer. There's nothing better to cap off a sunny day spent outdoors than a light and fluffy Ambrosia Salad with Pistachio Pudding. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and tangy BBQ. Trust me, this salad will steal the show—friends and family will be asking for the recipe before the evening is done.
Ambrosia salad might just be the quintessential summer dessert. Its bright colors and refreshing flavors are reminiscent of sunny days spent with loved ones. And since it’s incredibly easy to throw together, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple at potlucks and backyard barbecues.
At its core, ambrosia salad is a mixture of fruits—often tropical—coconut, nuts, and a creamy dressing. This variation relies on instant pistachio pudding mix to add flavor and a lovely green hue. It’s both a salad and a dessert, blending sweet and creamy elements in a delightful dish that pleases the palate.
What makes this Ambrosia Salad really stand out is how it balances flavors and textures. The pistachio pudding lends a subtle nuttiness, while the fruits bring brightness and freshness. The whipped topping ties everything together, creating a creamy base that's oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s adaptable, so you can switch up your fruit and add-ins based on what you love or have on hand.
This dish is a delightful dance of flavors. Creamy and cool, with pops of sweetness from the fruits, it's balanced by the crunch of walnuts and the slight chew of coconut. The infusion of pistachio holds everything together, creating a rich but light flavor profile that's comforting yet refreshing—perfect for a warm day.
While many ambrosia salad recipes stick to a traditional fruit medley, my version takes it a step further by enhancing the taste experience. The addition of vanilla extract gives depth while maintaining the classic flavor we all know and adore. Plus, I’ve included the nutty crunch of walnuts to elevate the texture and heartiness of this dish, making it even more appealing.
To whip up this delightful Ambrosia Salad, gather the following:
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 (8 oz) tubs of thawed Cool Whip (dairy free optional)
- 1 (20 oz) can of crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 (20 oz) can of mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 (10 oz) jar of maraschino cherries (drained)
- ½ teaspoon of alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 2 cups of mini marshmallows
- 2 cups of chopped walnuts
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 cup of diced strawberries (adds freshness and a pop of color)
- ½ cup of honey for extra sweetness (if desired)
Getting into the steps of making this delicious Ambrosia Salad is pretty straightforward. Let’s dive in!
In a spacious glass bowl, take both boxes of instant pistachio pudding mix and combine them with the can of crushed pineapple, including all the juice. Mix this well. As you stir, you’ll notice the mixture change color and thicken, making the base for your salad even more creamy and luscious.
Once your pudding mixture is ready, it’s time to add the Cool Whip. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold both tubs of the whipped cream into your pistachio mixture. Be patient and take your time here; you want the two to meld seamlessly into a fluffy cloud of delight.
Next is the fun part! Toss in your mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and the hint of vanilla extract. If you opted for the strawberries and honey, now’s the time to add them too! Mix everything until it’s well combined. You'll have a colorful, irresistible medley.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, serving it cold on a hot day is just perfect.
- Consider using fresh fruits: Strawberries or sliced bananas can add great flavors.
- If you want a lower calorie version, opt for light whipped topping or Greek yogurt.
- Add some zest: A teaspoon of lemon or lime zest can brighten up the flavor even more.
- For extra fun, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or even pistachios.
- Make it vegan-friendly: Use coconut whipped topping in place of Cool Whip.
Storing this salad is quite easy. Place it in an airtight container and it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember—if it lasts that long! The flavors may develop even more as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
A serving of this ambrosia salad packs about 350 calories, providing a tasty mix of fruit, fats from nuts, and sweetness from the pudding mix. While it’s indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits, especially from the fruits and nuts included.
- Grilled chicken: A great protein option that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- BBQ pulled pork: Adds a savory touch against the sweet salad.
- Charcuterie platter: The salty cheeses and meats offer a nice contrast.
- Chipotle black bean burgers: A hearty, plant-based choice that complements the salad well.
- Corn on the cob: Summer staples should always align for a perfect picnic spread!
- Pistachio pudding mix: If you can’t find this, vanilla pudding mix will work as a base with some crushed pistachios added for flavor.
- Cool Whip: Regular whipped cream or whipped coconut cream can be a great substitute for a lighter touch.
- Crushed pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks or even canned peach slices (with juice) can substitute nicely.
- Maraschino cherries: Fresh cherries or strawberries can add a lovely tart twist.
- Walnuts: Almonds or pecans can be used if you’re looking for a different nutty flavor.
There you have it! A lively and delightful Ambrosia Salad with Pistachio Pudding that’s sure to be the star of your next BBQ or family gathering. It’s always rewarding to see the smiles on faces as they dig into this delicious treat—your friends and family will love you for bringing it! So, fire up those grills, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the sweet touches of summer with this easy-to-make dessert. Happy eating!
Ambrosia salad might just be the quintessential summer dessert. Its bright colors and refreshing flavors are reminiscent of sunny days spent with loved ones. And since it’s incredibly easy to throw together, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple at potlucks and backyard barbecues.
- Consider using fresh fruits: Strawberries or sliced bananas can add great flavors.
- If you want a lower calorie version, opt for light whipped topping or Greek yogurt.
- Add some zest: A teaspoon of lemon or lime zest can brighten up the flavor even more.
- For extra fun, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or even pistachios.
- Make it vegan-friendly: Use coconut whipped topping in place of Cool Whip.
Charlotte Shapiro is a registered dietitian and the author of Freshly Ingredients, a blog dedicated to easy, nutritious, and flavorful recipes. Based in Alaska, Charlotte draws inspiration from local ingredients and diverse cuisines to create balanced meals that are simple to prepare. With a passion for making healthy eating accessible, she shares practical tips and recipes that fit into busy lifestyles. Through her blog, Charlotte aims to empower readers to enjoy wholesome, home-cooked meals without the hassle.