If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and nostalgic dessert or side dish, this Easy 5 Cup Salad Recipe is the perfect choice! With just five simple ingredients, this creamy, fruity delight is a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, family gatherings, and cookouts. Often referred to as Ambrosia Salad or Marshmallow Salad, this recipe brings together the best flavors and textures with minimal effort.
What is 5 Cup Salad?
5 Cup Salad is a classic Ambrosia Fruit Salad that has been loved for generations. It gets its name from the simple measurement: each ingredient is added in one cup portions. This easy-to-make dish combines citrusy fruit, sweet marshmallows, and creamy dressing, making it one of the Best Fruit Salad recipes out there. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or a cookout side dish, this salad is always a hit!
Ingredients for 5 Cup Salad
The best part about this recipe is its simplicity! You only need five ingredients:
- Mandarin Oranges (1 cup, drained) – These juicy citrus pieces add a sweet, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the salad.
- Pineapple Chunks (1 cup, drained) – Pineapple gives this salad a tropical, refreshing taste.
- Mini Marshmallows (1 cup) – The key to a great Marshmallow Salad, these add a fun texture and extra sweetness.
- Shredded Coconut (1 cup, sweetened or unsweetened) – This ingredient enhances the tropical flavor and gives the salad a subtle chewiness.
- Real Whipped Cream (1 cup, freshly whipped) – Unlike store-bought whipped topping, using Real Whipped Cream makes this dish extra rich and creamy.
How to Make 5 Cup Salad
This Ambrosia Salad Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain the canned fruit well to prevent excess liquid from thinning the dressing.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently mix in the Real Whipped Cream, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad
- Use Fresh Whipped Cream: Store-bought whipped topping works in a pinch, but making your own gives the best flavor and texture.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for a few hours makes it even better.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your Ambrosia Recipe.
- Try Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: For a tangy twist, mix in a little Greek yogurt or sour cream with the whipped cream.
Variations on 5 Cup Salad
Want to change things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Cherry Ambrosia: Add maraschino cherries for extra sweetness and color.
- Fruit Cocktail Mix: Swap out the mandarin oranges and pineapple for a canned fruit cocktail.
- Berry Version: Replace the tropical fruits with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a fresh summer twist.
- Pistachio Pudding Mix: Mix in a package of instant pistachio pudding for a fun “Watergate” salad variation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 Ingredients – No complicated steps or hard-to-find items.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday, BBQ, or weeknight treat, this salad is a winner.
- Kid-Friendly & Nostalgic – A fun, sweet dish that reminds many of childhood family dinners.
- Great Make-Ahead Dish – Prepares in minutes and tastes even better after chilling!
More Delicious Cookout Side Dishes
If you love this easy Ambrosia Fruit Salad, here are some other great cookout side dishes to try:
- Classic Coleslaw
- Creamy Potato Salad
- Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Sweet Strawberry Pretzel Salad
