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Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad for Refreshing Salad Ideas

When I say this fruit salad is a lifesaver on hot afternoons, I mean it. I remember throwing it together one summer when the AC gave out—five minutes later, we were all cooler and happier. No oven, no sweat, just creamy, fruity comfort in a bowl. It’s my go-to when I need something that feels like dessert but behaves like a healthy dish. This one’s light enough to sneak onto your weekly menu and sweet enough that the kids ask for seconds. And if you're someone who usually skips fruit salad for something 'more exciting'—trust me, this version will surprise you. Loaded with juicy pineapple, cherries, and mandarin oranges, all tied together with a dollop of whipped topping and Greek yogurt—it’s got that classic ambrosia flavor, minus the sugar crash. So if you’re browsing Salad Ideas or looking to reinvent your usual rotation of Salad Recipes Easy and Healthy Salad Recipes, start here. It’s quick, it’s creamy, and honestly, it’s one of my Best Food Recipes to sneak fruit into the day without a single complaint. Plus, it shares fridge space well. Make it the night before, bring it to a brunch, or keep it cold for those midday cravings.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Best Food Recipes, Best Tuna Salad, Healthy salad recipes, recipes best, recipes for salad, Salad Ideas, salad recipes easy
Servings: 12 servings
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup light whipped topping

Instructions

  1. Grab a big bowl—trust me, you’ll need it. Toss in the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, halved cherries, marshmallows, and coconut.
  2. In a smaller bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt and whipped topping until smooth.
  3. Pour the creamy mixture over your fruit and gently fold it all together. Try not to crush the oranges (or your hopes).
  4. Chill it in the fridge for about an hour. Serve cold and try not to eat it all in one sitting.