Are you craving a light, fruity treat that’s both tasty and guilt-free? Look no further! My Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad combines creamy low-fat Greek yogurt with vibrant fruits like pineapple and strawberries. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this refreshing delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready to impress your taste buds? Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
The beauty of Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a refreshing treat. Here’s what you need:
– 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (adjust to your taste)
– 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, thoroughly drained
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for additional sweetness)
– ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnishing (optional)
I love using low-fat Greek yogurt in this recipe. It adds creaminess without too many calories. Honey gives it a touch of natural sweetness, while the fruit brings bright flavors and textures. The canned mandarin oranges add a citrusy zing, and fresh pineapple enhances the tropical vibe. Strawberries not only add color but also a sweet burst with each bite.
The mini marshmallows are optional. They can make the salad sweeter if you prefer. Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a nice chewy texture, while vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. Finally, fresh mint leaves elevate the dish with a fragrant touch.
Each ingredient plays its part to create a salad that is both delightful and guilt-free. You will find that these simple components come together beautifully in the full recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Mixing yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract
Start by taking a big mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt. Pour in 1 tablespoon of honey. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spatula to mix. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Folding in the fruits and coconut
Next, gently fold in the fruits. Add 1 cup of canned mandarin oranges, drained well. Then, add 1 cup of fresh pineapple, diced small. Include 1 cup of sliced strawberries. If you want extra sweetness, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows. Finally, fold in ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Mix carefully to keep the fruits whole.
3. Chilling the salad
After mixing, taste the salad. You can add more honey if you want it sweeter. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors blend well.
Serving Considerations
– Garnishing options
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. You can garnish it with fresh mint leaves for a nice touch. This adds color and freshness.
– Recommended serving dishes
Serve the salad in individual bowls for a fun touch. You can also use a large serving dish for family style. Either way, this salad looks great and tastes even better!
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Healthier Variations
To make this salad even better for you, consider these tips. First, try using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave. They add flavor without too much sugar. You can also adjust the honey to fit your taste. If you want to add more fruit, consider using blueberries or kiwi. They bring new colors and tastes. Adding nuts like walnuts or almonds gives a nice crunch and boosts protein. This makes your salad filling and fun.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your salad, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. If you mix too much, the fruits can get mushy. Gently fold the fruit into the yogurt mix. This keeps the pieces nice and whole. Another mistake is not letting the salad chill. It needs time in the fridge to let the flavors blend. I suggest chilling it for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time is key to a tasty salad. Enjoy your beautiful creation! Check the Full Recipe for more tips.
Variations
Fruit Substitutions
You can switch up the fruits in Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad. Use fruits that are in season. For example, peaches and blueberries work well in summer. In the fall, try adding apples or pears. You can also explore tropical variations. Mangoes, kiwis, and bananas add a fun twist. These fruits blend well with yogurt and give a burst of flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad can fit many diets. For a vegan option, swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt. Use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness. This keeps it plant-based and delicious. If you want a low-carb version, skip the mini marshmallows. You can also use berries like raspberries or blackberries, which are lower in sugar. These simple changes keep the salad tasty and healthy, perfect for any gathering or snack. For the full recipe, check out the link provided.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad fresh, refrigerate it right away. Put it in an airtight container. This helps prevent air from spoiling the fruit. Make sure to use a container that seals well. Glass or plastic containers work great. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the fruit may get mushy.
Freezing Guidelines
Can you freeze Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad? I do not recommend it. Freezing can change the texture of the fruit. However, if you must freeze it, here are steps to follow. First, pack the salad in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Next, cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. This gentle thawing helps keep some texture. After thawing, stir it well before serving.
FAQs
How do I make this salad without marshmallows?
To make the salad without marshmallows, simply skip that step. The fruit already adds a lot of natural sweetness. You can increase the honey if you want more sweetness. This change keeps the dish light and fresh while still tasting great.
Can I use non-dairy yogurt for a vegan version?
Yes, you can use non-dairy yogurt! Look for coconut or almond yogurt. These options will keep the salad creamy without dairy. Just make sure to pick a yogurt without added sugars for the best taste. This way, you still get a refreshing dish that fits your diet.
How long can Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad last in the fridge?
Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad can last up to three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The flavors meld more over time, making it taste even better. However, for the best texture, enjoy it within the first two days.
In this blog post, I covered how to make a delicious Skinny Ambrosia Fruit Salad. I shared the key ingredients, like Greek yogurt and fresh fruits, and outlined easy preparation steps. I also provided tips for healthier variations and common mistakes to avoid. Remember, you can store leftovers properly or even freeze them. Enjoy your tasty salad, and feel free to explore different fruit combinations and dietary options. This recipe is all about creativity and fun in the kitchen!
