How Ambrosia Became Our Family’s Favorite Holiday Tradition: A Delicious Fruit Salad Recipe
The holiday season is synonymous with family, food, and, of course, traditions. Over the years, our family has developed a few holiday favorites that are always a must at the dinner table. One of these traditions is the addition of Ambrosia, a sweet, creamy fruit salad that has become our signature dish for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.
If you’re searching for a new holiday recipe or want to add something special to your holiday table, Ambrosia fruit salad is the perfect option. It’s sweet, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to make. Here’s how Ambrosia went from a Southern delicacy to one of our family’s most cherished holiday traditions.
How We Found Ambrosia: A Southern Holiday Favorite
Like many newlyweds, Jay and I started with a blend of holiday traditions from our respective families. Jay’s family, mostly from Ohio, loved hearty dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole, while my Texan roots favored dishes like cornbread dressing and sweet potato casserole. We quickly realized there were some common favorites—turkey, mashed potatoes, and rolls—but we also had a few things we could do without, like traditional holiday fruit salads.
One year, after deciding to skip the usual fruit salad (which featured fruits and whipped cream or mayo), I stumbled upon an article in Southern Living Magazine about holiday fruit salads. That’s when I discovered Ambrosia, a refreshing fruit salad made with fresh fruits, coconut, and a touch of sweetness. I decided to give it a try, and the rest is history. Ambrosia became an instant favorite, complementing our holiday meal perfectly, from turkey to cornbread dressing.
What Makes Ambrosia So Special?
Ambrosia isn’t just any fruit salad. It’s often referred to as the “food of the gods,” thanks to its luxurious blend of tropical fruits like oranges, pineapples, and coconut. Originally, Ambrosia was a special treat in Southern homes, as citrus fruits were considered a delicacy. But what makes Ambrosia so perfect for holidays is its versatility—it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of holiday dishes, from savory stuffing to roasted meats.
Over time, we added a few personal touches to our Ambrosia recipe. The addition of ruby red grapefruit gives it a tangy kick, while the pecans add a bit of crunch and texture. The end result is a beautifully balanced, refreshing dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe: The Perfect Holiday Side Dish
If you’re ready to try this easy-to-make yet impressive dish for your next holiday gathering, here’s our tried-and-true Ambrosia recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 oranges, peeled and chopped (be sure to remove the peel and pith)
- 2 ruby red grapefruits, peeled and segmented
- 1 fresh pineapple (cut into chunks) or 2 cans of pineapple chunks in juice (drained)
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of fruit)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts for a different flavor)
- Optional: A dollop of whipped cream or Cool Whip for extra creaminess
Instructions:
- Prepare the fruit: Peel and segment the oranges and grapefruits. Be sure to remove any membranes for a smooth texture. Chop the pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oranges, grapefruits, pineapple, coconut flakes, sugar, and pecans. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Ambrosia can be served chilled or at room temperature, but chilling it enhances its refreshing taste.
- Serve: If you like, top with whipped cream or Cool Whip for a richer, dessert-like version. Though traditionally served as a side dish, Ambrosia can double as a sweet treat after your holiday meal.
Pro Tip: For a quicker version of Ambrosia, you can substitute fresh fruit with canned mandarins and canned grapefruit. Just be sure to drain them well!
Why Ambrosia is the Ultimate Holiday Side Dish
Ambrosia is not just about the flavors—it’s also about the memories it creates. Every year when we serve Ambrosia, it reminds us of family traditions, holiday laughter, and the joy of sharing a meal together. The crystal bowl I use to serve it was a wedding gift from Jay, and now it’s affectionately known as the “Ambrosia Bowl.” I can’t help but smile every time I fill it with this delicious fruit salad, knowing how much it means to our family.
Ambrosia also offers several benefits as a holiday dish:
- Easy to make: With only a few ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Fresh and vibrant: The combination of citrus fruits and pineapple brings a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday foods.
- Customizable: Whether you like it creamier with whipped topping or prefer it lighter and fruitier, Ambrosia can be adapted to suit your taste.
Ambrosia for Every Holiday Occasion
Although we’ve made Ambrosia a staple for Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s also a great dish for Easter, Father’s Day, or any special family gathering. The vibrant colors of the fruit, the crunch of the pecans, and the tropical sweetness make it the perfect complement to any meal.
If you’re looking for a dish that combines nostalgia, freshness, and ease, Ambrosia fruit salad will not disappoint.
Whether you’re adding it to your Thanksgiving table or serving it as a refreshing side for Christmas dinner, Ambrosia fruit salad is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that will bring your family together. Its unique blend of tropical fruits and creamy texture makes it an unforgettable part of any holiday meal. Try making Ambrosia this season and see how it becomes your next family tradition!