Get ready to scoop up a bowl of pure nostalgia with this 5 Cup Salad! This creamy, dreamy ambrosia blends sweet pineapple, juicy mandarin oranges, and fluffy coconut in a luscious sour cream dressing that’s like a hug from grandma’s kitchen. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the no-cook dessert or side dish that steals the show at any gathering.
I’m crazy about this recipe because it’s a retro classic that brings instant smiles. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a quick sweet treat, it’s a five-ingredient wonder that’s as easy as it is delicious. Let’s mix this up!
Why I Love This Recipe
This salad is a total gem. It’s ridiculously easy, using just five ingredients and no cooking. The creamy, sweet combo is a crowd-pleaser that evokes warm memories.
It’s versatile—serve it as a dessert, side, or even a light snack. Great for holidays or summer BBQs, it’s a dish that everyone loves. Plus, it’s forgiving for beginner cooks.
Ingredients for 5 Cup Salad
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pineapple tidbits: 1 cup, canned, drained, for sweet juiciness.
- Mandarin oranges: 1 cup, canned, drained, for citrusy brightness.
- Mini marshmallows: 1 cup, for fluffy sweetness.
- Shredded coconut: 1 cup, sweetened, for tropical flavor.
- Sour cream: 1 cup, full-fat, for creamy tang.
These five ingredients are all you need for this classic ambrosia.
How to Make the Perfect 5 Cup Salad
This salad is a breeze to whip up:
- Drain pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges well, patting dry with a paper towel if needed. Excess liquid can make the salad watery.
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut. Stir gently to mix the colorful ingredients evenly.
- Add sour cream and fold it into the mixture until everything is well-coated. Keep it light to preserve the fruit’s texture.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve cold for the best creamy, refreshing taste.
It’s as simple as mixing a fruit salad, but with retro ambrosia charm!
Tips for the Best 5 Cup Salad
To make your salad perfect:
- Drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a runny salad. Let them sit in a colander for a few minutes.
- Use full-fat sour cream for the richest texture. Light sour cream works but may be less creamy.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors blend and keeps it refreshing.
- Stir gently to avoid crushing the marshmallows or fruit. A spatula works better than a spoon.
- Taste before chilling. If you want it sweeter, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar.
These tweaks are like adding a cherry on top—they make it shine.
Customizing Your 5 Cup Salad
Make it your own:
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. About ¼ cup adds a nutty twist.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, slightly healthier version.
- Toss in maraschino cherries or grapes for extra color and sweetness. A ½ cup fits well.
- Use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet, more natural flavor. Adjust with a touch of honey if needed.
- Mix in a splash of orange juice or vanilla extract for a citrusy or creamy boost.
Play with it like you’re decorating a sundae!
Nutrition Per Serving
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 10 g (Saturated Fat: 7 g)
- Carbohydrates: 32 g (Dietary Fiber: 2 g, Sugars: 26 g)
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 60 mg
Note:Â Nutrition can vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions (e.g., light sour cream or unsweetened coconut). For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. This salad is a sweet treat, best enjoyed in moderation.
Storage Instructions
Keep your salad fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir gently before serving to refresh.
- Don’t freeze, as the sour cream and fruit will separate and lose texture. Make a fresh batch instead.
- If prepping ahead, mix just before chilling to keep marshmallows from getting soggy.
- Serve cold for the best creamy texture. Perfect for potlucks or holiday spreads.
This salad is a make-ahead dream for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is super versatile:
- Serve as a dessert alongside holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Pairs great with ham or turkey.
- Offer as a side at summer BBQs with burgers or grilled chicken. Its sweetness balances savory mains.
- Spoon into small cups for a potluck or party dessert. Add a cherry on top for retro flair.
- Enjoy as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a light, refreshing treat.
It’s ready to shine at any occasion, from festive to casual.
Try More Salad Recipes:-
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 basic salad types?
- Green Salad: Made with leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, or arugula.
- Bound Salad: Features a creamy base, such as potato salad or chicken salad, with ingredients mixed in.
- Tossed Salad: A mix of raw veggies, usually without a creamy dressing.
- Fruit Salad: Made with a variety of fresh fruits.
- Grain Salad: Includes grains like quinoa, couscous, or rice mixed with veggies.
How to make salad in 5 steps?
- Step 1: Choose a base (e.g., lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens).
- Step 2: Add veggies (e.g., cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots).
- Step 3: Include protein (e.g., chicken, tofu, or beans).
- Step 4: Add healthy fats (e.g., avocado, nuts, or cheese).
- Step 5: Toss with dressing and season to taste.
How many carbs are in a 5-cup salad?
The carb count depends on the ingredients, but a basic 5-cup salad made with leafy greens and veggies will have around 10-20 grams of carbs. Adding fruits, grains, or beans will increase the carb count.
What are 5 common ingredients used in making salad?
- Greens: Lettuce, spinach, arugula.
- Veggies: Tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots.
- Protein: Chicken, tofu, eggs, or beans.
- Cheese: Feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
- Nuts or seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts.
Why This Recipe Works
This 5 Cup Salad is a classic for a reason. It’s ready in 10 minutes, using just five pantry staples for maximum ease. The creamy sour cream binds the sweet fruit and coconut, creating a lush, nostalgic texture.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, balancing tangy, sweet, and tropical flavors. Versatile as a dessert or side, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or quick treats. It’s like a retro dessert that never goes out of style.
Final Thoughts
This 5 Cup Salad is your ticket to creamy, nostalgic bliss. Pineapple, mandarin oranges, and coconut come together in a sweet, tangy ambrosia in just 10 minutes. Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or quick desserts.
Tweak it with nuts or cherries, and serve chilled with BBQ or ham. Grab your bowl, mix it up, and watch it disappear. What’s your favorite add-in? Let’s make this salad!
