When I was young, my Grandma made the most amazing “salad” to bring to a summer BBQ or church potluck… marshmallow fluff mixed fruit salad! This updated version is a little bougier and a little healthier with the addition of some real fruit, but still not what I would call a salad… hahaha!

Best of all, it's incredibly easy to whip together!  Even if you're new to the kitchen, you can create this delicious dessert salad in no time!

The Best Summer Salad Recipe Ever

If you need something to make everyone smile at your next event or family gathering THIS is the salad to bring! No one can say no to this creamy fruit salad!

There is a printable recipe card below…

Ingredients:

While this is a super fancy “real” old-fashioned marshmallow fruit salad recipe, the principle of this is to grab a can of fruit cocktail, some marshmallows and cool whip, throw it in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and stick it in the fridge!

• 30 ounces mixed fruit cocktail, drained
• 1 fresh blood orange, peeled, segmented, and cut in half
• 1 cup strawberries, quartered
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
• Maraschino cherry halves for topping

Equipment:

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Silicone spatula

Instructions:

Prep your fruit: Quarter the strawberries. Peel the blood orange, divide it into segments, and slice each segment in half. Drain your fruit cocktail.

Combine the goodies: Add fruit cocktail, strawberries, blood orange segments, and marshmallows to your large bowl.

Fold in the magic:  Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until blended.

Top and chill: Scatter halved maraschino cherries across the top of your salad. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors mingle.

Enjoy the sweet nostalgia!

Tips:

• Make it ahead:  This salad is actually even better if prepared a few hours in advance.
• Just before serving: Give it a quick stir to redistribute the whipped topping and fruit. Save a bit of fresh fruit to sprinkle on the top and make it look like a salad not a dessert!!!
• Storage: Store covered and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Customize It:

Feeling adventurous or simply want to mix it up? Dive into the world of customizations for your Marshmallow Fruit Salad Ambrosia. 

• Swap out blood oranges for tangy kiwis or add a burst of tropical flavor with mango chunks to make a tropical marshmallow fruit salad.
• Why not throw in some blueberries for a splash of color, or add peaches for a fun burst of flavor!
• Add some sweet coconut flakes and make it an actual ambrosia fruit salad… we never had coconut because someone (ME) hates the texture of coconut flakes!

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility; you can adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season or what tickles your fancy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits and find your family’s new favorite version of this classic, creamy delight!

Here are some other retro recipes that you might love!

• 1970s Old Fashioned Mandarin Orange Jello Salad
• Spring Poke Cake Box Recipe – Easy and Delicious!
• 1980s Recipes – Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff