Looking for a delicious and guilt-free treat? My Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad is the perfect answer! Packed with fresh fruits, creamy Greek yogurt, and a hint of sweetness, this salad is refreshing, easy to make, and healthy. Plus, I’ll share tips for variations, storage, and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into this lightened-up classic that everyone will love. Your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients
– 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
– 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional for sweetness)
– ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
These ingredients create a light and tasty fruit salad. The Greek yogurt gives it a creamy base. Honey adds sweetness, while the fruits bring a burst of flavor. You can use mini marshmallows to make it sweeter, but they are optional.
Suggested Substitutions
If you want to change things up, you can swap Greek yogurt for any yogurt you like. Try dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt. For sweeteners, use maple syrup or agave. If you want to switch fruits, you can add blueberries, mangoes, or even kiwi. This salad is flexible and lets you play with flavors.
Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowl
– Spatula or spoon
– Measuring cups
– Plastic wrap
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A mixing bowl is key for combining your ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon for gentle mixing. Measuring cups help ensure you get the right amounts. Finally, plastic wrap keeps your salad fresh while it chills in the fridge.
For the Full Recipe, you can see the complete steps to make this delicious Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, gather your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir these together well until you get a smooth and creamy mix. This base adds rich flavor and a nice creamy texture.
Next, gently fold in the fruits. Add 1 cup of drained canned mandarin oranges, 1 cup of diced fresh pineapple, and 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries. If you want extra sweetness, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows. For a tropical twist, include ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Mix slowly to coat the fruit with the yogurt dressing without breaking it apart.
Chilling and Serving
After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together, making each bite tastier.
When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to mix again. Serve it in small bowls or a large dish. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves if you like. This adds color and a fresh scent.
Cooking Technique Notes
Mixing gently is crucial. It keeps the fruit intact and maintains the salad’s light feel. Too much stirring can mush the fruit.
Before serving, ensure the salad is cold. This makes it refreshing, especially on warm days. Enjoy the bright flavors and creamy texture of your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Making it Even Healthier
To cut calories and sugar, use less honey. You can also skip the mini marshmallows. They add sweetness but pack on extra sugar. Using fresh fruits can help too. They bring natural sweetness to the salad.
For protein-rich options, swap Greek yogurt for protein-fortified versions. You could also stir in some cottage cheese. Both options boost the protein without adding too many calories.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a burst of flavor by using citrus zest. Lemon or lime zest adds a fresh kick. A little zest goes a long way in brightening the taste.
Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch. Almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds are great choices. They give your salad a nice texture and healthy fats too.
Presentation Tips
Get creative with how you serve the salad. Use small cups or clear bowls to show off the colors. Layering the fruits makes it look fancy.
Choose colorful fruits to make your salad pop. Red strawberries, orange mandarins, and yellow pineapple create a vibrant look. They not only taste good but also make the dish visually appealing. Check out the full recipe for more ideas!
Variations
Different Fruit Combinations
Mixing fruits can make your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad exciting. You can use seasonal fruits based on what is fresh. In summer, berries shine bright. Think blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for vibrant colors. In fall, apples and pears add a crisp bite.
For tropical vibes, consider mangoes or kiwi. These fruits add sweetness and a fun twist. You can even add some passion fruit for a unique flavor. Each mix brings a new taste and look to your salad.
Dietary Accommodations
If you want a vegan version, swap Greek yogurt for almond or coconut yogurt. These options still give you a creamy texture. For sweetness, use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps it plant-based and delicious.
If gluten is a concern, you’re in luck! All the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free. You can enjoy it without worry. Just be sure to check your yogurt and marshmallows if they are certified gluten-free.
Themed Ambrosia Salads
You can make themed ambrosia salads for special events. For holidays, add colors to match the season. For Halloween, use oranges, blackberries, and purple grapes. For Christmas, think red and green with cherries and kiwi.
Color-themed salads are fun too! Create a rainbow salad with a mix of colorful fruits. Each layer adds a new hue and flavor. This makes your dish as pretty as it is tasty.
For more ideas, check the Full Recipe and let your creativity flow!
Storage Info
How to Properly Store
To keep your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work well because they do not absorb smells. Before sealing, make sure the salad is cool. This keeps moisture from forming inside the lid. If you plan to eat it later, cover the container tightly with plastic wrap.
To maintain freshness, store the salad in the fridge. Avoid leaving it out for long periods. The yogurt can spoil if it sits too long. If you have leftover salad, eat it within three days for the best taste.
Shelf Life and Safety
The optimal time to enjoy your ambrosia salad is within three days. After this, the fruits may lose their texture and flavor. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or the salad smells sour, it is best to throw it away. Fresh fruits will start to brown and become mushy after a few days.
Re-serving Leftovers
If you have leftover salad, consider remixing it. You can add more fresh fruit for a new twist. Chopped apples or bananas can bring in new flavors. Another fun idea is to use it as a topping for yogurt or pancakes. You could also blend it into a smoothie for a refreshing drink.
For a creative twist, try adding leftover ambrosia to baked goods. You can mix it into muffin batter or use it as a filling for cakes. This way, you reduce waste while enjoying tasty treats.
FAQs
How many calories are in Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad?
Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad has about 150 calories per serving. This number can vary based on the fruits you choose. Here’s a quick breakdown of the calories in each ingredient:
– 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt: 100 calories
– 1 tablespoon honey: 64 calories
– 1 cup canned mandarin oranges: 60 calories
– 1 cup fresh pineapple: 82 calories
– 1 cup strawberries: 50 calories
– 1 cup mini marshmallows: 100 calories (optional)
– ½ cup shredded coconut: 200 calories
You can adjust the amounts to fit your needs.
Can I make Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just mix the fruits and yogurt base, then store it in the fridge. To keep it fresh, cover it well. If you want a nice crunch, add mini marshmallows just before serving. This will help them stay soft.
What if I don’t like Greek yogurt?
If Greek yogurt isn’t your favorite, you can use regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt. Almond, coconut, or soy yogurts work great. Choose a type that fits your taste and diet. These alternatives will still give you that creamy texture.
Is Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Kids love the sweet flavors and fun textures. To make it more appealing, you can cut the fruits into smaller pieces. You can also let them help with the mixing. It’s a fun way to get kids excited about healthy food.
How do I add more protein to the salad?
To boost protein, you can add nuts like almonds or walnuts. Chia seeds are also a great choice. You can mix in a scoop of protein powder into the yogurt. This keeps the salad tasty while increasing its nutrition.
Can I use canned fruits instead?
Yes, you can use canned fruits. They save time, but fresh fruit usually has better taste and texture. Canned fruits may be sweeter, so check the labels for added sugars. If you go canned, drain and rinse the fruits to reduce extra syrup.
This blog post covered easy steps to make a tasty ambrosia fruit salad. You need basic ingredients like Greek yogurt, fruits, and maybe some marshmallows. Remember, you can swap out ingredients to fit your taste.
Think about serving it cool for the best flavor. Add a sprinkle of nuts for crunch and color for beauty. With the right tips, you can make delicious variations, store it well, and enjoy leftovers. Enjoy this fun, healthy dish with friends or family!
![- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste) - 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced - 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional for sweetness) - ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional) These ingredients create a light and tasty fruit salad. The Greek yogurt gives it a creamy base. Honey adds sweetness, while the fruits bring a burst of flavor. You can use mini marshmallows to make it sweeter, but they are optional. If you want to change things up, you can swap Greek yogurt for any yogurt you like. Try dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt. For sweeteners, use maple syrup or agave. If you want to switch fruits, you can add blueberries, mangoes, or even kiwi. This salad is flexible and lets you play with flavors. - Mixing bowl - Spatula or spoon - Measuring cups - Plastic wrap Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A mixing bowl is key for combining your ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon for gentle mixing. Measuring cups help ensure you get the right amounts. Finally, plastic wrap keeps your salad fresh while it chills in the fridge. For the Full Recipe, you can see the complete steps to make this delicious Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad. To start, gather your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir these together well until you get a smooth and creamy mix. This base adds rich flavor and a nice creamy texture. Next, gently fold in the fruits. Add 1 cup of drained canned mandarin oranges, 1 cup of diced fresh pineapple, and 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries. If you want extra sweetness, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows. For a tropical twist, include ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Mix slowly to coat the fruit with the yogurt dressing without breaking it apart. After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together, making each bite tastier. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to mix again. Serve it in small bowls or a large dish. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves if you like. This adds color and a fresh scent. Mixing gently is crucial. It keeps the fruit intact and maintains the salad's light feel. Too much stirring can mush the fruit. Before serving, ensure the salad is cold. This makes it refreshing, especially on warm days. Enjoy the bright flavors and creamy texture of your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To cut calories and sugar, use less honey. You can also skip the mini marshmallows. They add sweetness but pack on extra sugar. Using fresh fruits can help too. They bring natural sweetness to the salad. For protein-rich options, swap Greek yogurt for protein-fortified versions. You could also stir in some cottage cheese. Both options boost the protein without adding too many calories. Add a burst of flavor by using citrus zest. Lemon or lime zest adds a fresh kick. A little zest goes a long way in brightening the taste. Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch. Almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds are great choices. They give your salad a nice texture and healthy fats too. Get creative with how you serve the salad. Use small cups or clear bowls to show off the colors. Layering the fruits makes it look fancy. Choose colorful fruits to make your salad pop. Red strawberries, orange mandarins, and yellow pineapple create a vibrant look. They not only taste good but also make the dish visually appealing. Check out the full recipe for more ideas! {{image_2}} Mixing fruits can make your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad exciting. You can use seasonal fruits based on what is fresh. In summer, berries shine bright. Think blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for vibrant colors. In fall, apples and pears add a crisp bite. For tropical vibes, consider mangoes or kiwi. These fruits add sweetness and a fun twist. You can even add some passion fruit for a unique flavor. Each mix brings a new taste and look to your salad. If you want a vegan version, swap Greek yogurt for almond or coconut yogurt. These options still give you a creamy texture. For sweetness, use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps it plant-based and delicious. If gluten is a concern, you’re in luck! All the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free. You can enjoy it without worry. Just be sure to check your yogurt and marshmallows if they are certified gluten-free. You can make themed ambrosia salads for special events. For holidays, add colors to match the season. For Halloween, use oranges, blackberries, and purple grapes. For Christmas, think red and green with cherries and kiwi. Color-themed salads are fun too! Create a rainbow salad with a mix of colorful fruits. Each layer adds a new hue and flavor. This makes your dish as pretty as it is tasty. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe and let your creativity flow! To keep your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work well because they do not absorb smells. Before sealing, make sure the salad is cool. This keeps moisture from forming inside the lid. If you plan to eat it later, cover the container tightly with plastic wrap. To maintain freshness, store the salad in the fridge. Avoid leaving it out for long periods. The yogurt can spoil if it sits too long. If you have leftover salad, eat it within three days for the best taste. The optimal time to enjoy your ambrosia salad is within three days. After this, the fruits may lose their texture and flavor. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or the salad smells sour, it is best to throw it away. Fresh fruits will start to brown and become mushy after a few days. If you have leftover salad, consider remixing it. You can add more fresh fruit for a new twist. Chopped apples or bananas can bring in new flavors. Another fun idea is to use it as a topping for yogurt or pancakes. You could also blend it into a smoothie for a refreshing drink. For a creative twist, try adding leftover ambrosia to baked goods. You can mix it into muffin batter or use it as a filling for cakes. This way, you reduce waste while enjoying tasty treats. Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad has about 150 calories per serving. This number can vary based on the fruits you choose. Here’s a quick breakdown of the calories in each ingredient: - 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt: 100 calories - 1 tablespoon honey: 64 calories - 1 cup canned mandarin oranges: 60 calories - 1 cup fresh pineapple: 82 calories - 1 cup strawberries: 50 calories - 1 cup mini marshmallows: 100 calories (optional) - ½ cup shredded coconut: 200 calories You can adjust the amounts to fit your needs. Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just mix the fruits and yogurt base, then store it in the fridge. To keep it fresh, cover it well. If you want a nice crunch, add mini marshmallows just before serving. This will help them stay soft. If Greek yogurt isn't your favorite, you can use regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt. Almond, coconut, or soy yogurts work great. Choose a type that fits your taste and diet. These alternatives will still give you that creamy texture. Absolutely! Kids love the sweet flavors and fun textures. To make it more appealing, you can cut the fruits into smaller pieces. You can also let them help with the mixing. It’s a fun way to get kids excited about healthy food. To boost protein, you can add nuts like almonds or walnuts. Chia seeds are also a great choice. You can mix in a scoop of protein powder into the yogurt. This keeps the salad tasty while increasing its nutrition. Yes, you can use canned fruits. They save time, but fresh fruit usually has better taste and texture. Canned fruits may be sweeter, so check the labels for added sugars. If you go canned, drain and rinse the fruits to reduce extra syrup. This blog post covered easy steps to make a tasty ambrosia fruit salad. You need basic ingredients like Greek yogurt, fruits, and maybe some marshmallows. Remember, you can swap out ingredients to fit your taste. Think about serving it cool for the best flavor. Add a sprinkle of nuts for crunch and color for beauty. With the right tips, you can make delicious variations, store it well, and enjoy leftovers. Enjoy this fun, healthy dish with friends or family!](https://tossedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5e2e1739-102e-4422-ac59-59a313e883ae-300x300.webp)