Pistachio Ambrosia Salad

This Pistachio Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, fruity dessert made with pistachio pudding, whipped cream, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and maraschino cherries, topped with walnuts and shredded coconut. Perfect for potlucks, holiday meals, and family gatherings, this easy and delicious salad combines the best of sweet and crunchy textures. With the richness of pistachio flavor and the refreshing fruit, this no-bake salad is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert or a side dish, this ambrosia salad recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• (2) 3.4 oz boxes instant pistachio pudding mix
• 2 8 oz tubs Cool Whip (dairy or dairy-free, thawed)
• (1) 20 oz can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
• (1) 20 oz can mandarin oranges (drained)
• (1) 10 oz can maraschino cherries (drained, stemless)
• ½ teaspoon Singing Dog Vanilla (alcohol-free vanilla extract)
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 2 cups walnuts (chopped)
• 1 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pistachio Mixture:
In a large glass bowl, combine the two boxes of pistachio pudding mix with the crushed pineapple (including the juice). Stir the mixture until it begins to thicken and turn green.

2. Add Whipped Cream:
Fold in both tubs of thawed whipped cream (dairy or dairy-free) into the pistachio mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Add the drained mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and shredded coconut. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the salad to chill and thicken. Serve cold.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pistachio Ambrosia Salad is a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures. With the sweetness of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries, along with the richness of pistachio pudding and whipped cream, it’s a delightful dessert or side dish. The walnuts and shredded coconut add a lovely crunch, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. This easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family celebrations!

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Tips

• Thickening Tip: If you want your ambrosia salad to be a little thicker, let it sit in the refrigerator for a longer period of time. This will allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
• Maraschino Cherries: If you prefer a less sugary version, you can use fresh cherries or omit them entirely.
• Consistency: For a lighter version, you can substitute the Cool Whip with whipped coconut cream or Greek yogurt.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Non-Dairy Options: Use dairy-free Cool Whip and opt for plant-based pudding mix for a vegan version of this recipe.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip the walnuts if you have a nut allergy, and add more marshmallows or coconut to maintain texture.
• Fruit Variations: Try adding or substituting other fruits such as fresh strawberries, pineapple chunks, or even grapes for a different twist.

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FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors develop even more when it sits in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

How long can I store this salad?
Pistachio ambrosia salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the texture of the marshmallows and whipped cream may change, so it’s best to enjoy it within a few days.

Can I make it without pudding mix?
While instant pudding mix is essential for achieving the signature creamy texture, you could try substituting it with a homemade pistachio pudding recipe or a plant-based version.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this Pistachio Ambrosia Salad as a refreshing side dish or dessert at holiday meals, barbecues, or family gatherings. It’s a wonderful complement to savory dishes like roasted meats or grilled vegetables. For extra flair, top with a few extra crushed nuts or fresh mint leaves. You can also serve it as a sweet snack on a hot day for a cool treat!