This is a straightforward homemade version of Luby’s ambrosia salad — sweet oranges, pineapple, coconut, all dusted in powdered sugar for a light dessert or side. It’s easy, fast, and makes you feel like you actually tried (but didn’t).
Jump to RecipeQuick Summary
- Prep time: 10 mins
- Chill time: 1 hr
- Flavor: tropical, sweet, subtly creamy
- Great for: potlucks, BBQs, easy dessert vibes
Why I Like This Recipe
Not gonna lie—I threw this together after dinner, half-watching a show, and now it’s my go-to when I need something fresh but lazy. It’s like a tropical vacay in a bowl, without packing or sunburn. Somehow kids and adults both inhale it. Every single time.
Ingredients
- 5 large navel oranges, peeled, sectioned, chopped
- 6 oz pineapple tidbits (with juice)
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
How To Make Ambrosia Salad
- Chop the fruit: peel those oranges, section ‘em, and cut into bite-size pieces. Don’t stress about uniformity.
- Combine: toss oranges, pineapple (juice too), coconut, and powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Mix it: stir gently so the sugar coats everything—but not mashed.
- Chill: cover and fridge for at least an hour so flavors mingle and it gets a bit cold.
- Serve: scoop into bowls, maybe top with extra coconut or mint if you’re feeling fancy (or lying).
Tips for Success
- Use fresh oranges—canned? Meh.
- Leave the pineapple juice—it’s magic.
- Chill for best texture. Don’t eat it hot.
- Coconut can be toasted if you’re feeling wild.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Airtight container, up to 2 days (freshest day 1).
- Freezer: Nope—it’ll get icy and sad.
- Note: It might get juicier as it sits. Drain a bit if needed.
FAQs
Yeah, mini ones work. But it turns into fluffier territory.
Sure—just chop or use canned/translucent cherries.
Swap powdered sugar for honey or maple drizzle.
Sweetened or unsweetened both work. Your call.
Yep, a few hours in advance is perfect. Just don’t go more than a day.
Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them
- Using canned oranges: fresh is best.
- Skipping the juice: liquid = flavor = no dust.
- Not chilling enough: tastes meh warm.
- Overmixing: mashy oranges ain’t cute.
- Adding too much sugar: balance is key. You want subtle, not syrupy.
Nutrition Facts (Per 1/8 batch – est.)
- Calories: 151 kcal
- Carbs: 23g
- Fat: 7g
- Sat Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 4mg
- Vitamin C: 63mg
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings10
minutes1
hour151
kcalA vibrant mix of oranges, pineapple, coconut, and powdered sugar—bright, sweet, and effortless.
Ingredients
5 large navel oranges, peeled, sectioned, chopped
6 oz pineapple tidbits (with juice)
1 cup flaked coconut
¼ cup powdered sugar
Directions
- Chop oranges, keep pieces bite-size.
- Add pineapple and its juice.
- Toss in coconut and powdered sugar.
- Stir gently until coated.
- Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Serve cold.
Notes
- Fresh fruit gives best flavor.
- Chill time lets flavors combine.
- Drain excess juice before serving if needed.
- Optional additions: marshmallows, grapes, toasted coconut.
