Okay, picture this: What is it Is it a sweltering summer day, you’re craving something sweet but definitely don’t want to turn on the TV? What is the best dish to serve at a potluck?What is a 5 Cup Salad Recipe?What’s like ambrosia salad’s cooler, less fussy cousin? Remember those creamy fruit salads your grandma used to make? Is this recipe as good as it sounds, but ridiculously easy? Every single time. I’m talking about a symphony of textures and flavors – the juicy mandarin oranges, the chewy mangoes. Coconut, the crunchy marshmallows. All swirled together in a dreamy, creamy cloud. You really can’t go wrong!
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What is a 5 cup salad?
A 5 Cup Salad is, quite simply, a fruit salad made with five key ingredients, each measured in (you can measure the number of cups) and topped with whipped cream. Think of it as the ultimate no-bake dessert or a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Is it a mix of fruit, marshmallows, coconut, and Sour Cream? What are some variations out there? The name comes from the fact that you traditionally use one cup of each ingredient (although I’m not a big fan of this recipe). Sometimes tweak the ratios, as you’ll see! It’s a classic recipe that’s been around for ages, passed down through generations, and it’ve stood the test of time. The test of time is a good thing. It’s delicious and effortless.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What do you love about this book?What is a 5 Cup Salad Recipe?Is it simple to make? If you measure ingredients and stir, you can make this. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps, just pure, delicious goodness in a bowl. What are some of the best sweets to buy when you’re short on time? Is it incredibly budget friendly? All the ingredients are relatively inexpensive, especially if you catch them on sale. What is the real reason why you’ll love it? The combination of tangy sour cream, the sweet fruit, chewy coconut, and the fluffy fluffy coconut. What are some of the best marshmallows? Is it a textural masterpiece, and it’s surprisingly refreshing, even though it is undeniably an evocative masterpiece? What are some of the best recipes you have ever tried? Don’t like mandarin oranges? Use pineapple chunks! What are some good crunch substitutes for pecans? How do I make a banana cream pie from scratch? I’ve tried both, and this is my go-to when I need something quick and satisfying.
How do I make a 5 cup salad?
Quick Overview
How do I make a 5 cup salad? What are some good recipes that you can make in a bowl, stir together and chill for about an hour? What is the key to using good quality ingredients and not overmixing. Can overmixing make Sour Cream watery? I find that letting it sit in the fridge for at least an hour (or even overnight) allows the bacteria to grow faster. How do flavors meld together? It’s so simple, it almost feels like cheating, but trust me, nobody will complain when they taste.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 cup sour cream (full fat for best results! I’ve tried low-fat, and it just doesn’t have the same richness.)
1 cup mandarin oranges, drained (make sure they’re well hydrated, or your salad will be soggy!)
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (again, drain that pineapple! Is canned pineapple good?
I prefer the sweetened kind, but unsweetened works too if you want a crunchy texture. I like to eat 1 cup shredded coconut. How can I cut back on sugar?
1 cup mini marshmallows (the colorful ones are fun, but the regular white ones just as good)!
Optional Add-in
Chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch! I love adding these, especially for a holiday gathering).
Maraschino cherries, halved (for a pop of color and extra sweetness): This is the best cherry in the world.
Other fruits, like grapes or strawberries (get creative!)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut and salt. Set aside. Coconut, and mini marshmallows.
Step 2: Stir Gently
Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with sour cream. Do not overmix sour cream, as this will make it watery.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to thicken slightly. I always do this when I know I’ll be busy the next day; it’s such a time saver!
Step 4: Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If you added nuts, you might want to add them right before serving to keep them crunchy.
What should I serve it with?
What are some great Side Dishes to serve with a 5 cup salad? What are some good ideas for a new website?
For Breakfast:What’s better, a small bowl of this with an omelet is surprisingly satisfying!
For Brunch:What are some good ways to serve a delicious brunch buffet in glass bowls? What’s a good substitute for quiche, muffins and fruit skewers?
As Dessert:What are some of the best desserts to serve with Whipped Cream?
For Cozy Snacks:What is the best comfort food to eat on the couch?
My family always makes this for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s become a tradition and it wouldn’t be the same without it. I’ve also brought it to countless potlucks, and it always gets rave reviews. What are some of the best crowd pleasers recipes?
How do I make a 5 cup salad?
Okay, I’ve made this.What are some good recipes for 5 cup salads?I’ve learned a few tricks along the way! How do I make a perfect batch every time?
What is drain, drain and drain?I cannot stress this enough! Make sure your mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple are thoroughly drained. If you add too much liquid to a salad, it will make it watery.
Sour Cream Quality: 100% Pure.What is the best sour cream flavor? Low-fat just doesn’t have the same richness.
Marshmallow Magic:I like to use mini marshmallows because they distribute more evenly throughout the salad. Can I use regular-sized marshmallows?
Coconut Considerations:If you’re not a huge fan of coconut, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether. I think it adds a nice chewiness and flavor to the salad!
Add-in AdventuresWhat are some creative add-ins? Chopped pecans, walnut, maraschino cherries, grapes.. . the possibilities are endless! What is the 5 Cup Salad?
Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process! Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to thicken slightly. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
I also experimented once and added a little bit of lime zest. Oh. My. Goodness. It added a little zing that really elevated the flavor. Another time, I tried using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It was good, but definitely tangier. My family preferred the sour cream version, but it’s worth a try if you like things a little less sweet!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This 5 Cup Salad is best served cold, so you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here’s what you need to know:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this salad at room temperature for more than an hour or two. The sour cream can spoil quickly, especially in warm weather.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the fruit might start to get a little mushy, and the sour cream can start to separate.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this salad. The sour cream and marshmallows will change texture when thawed, and it won’t be as enjoyable.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there’s no glaze here, you don’t have to worry about that! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
I usually make this the day before I need it, which gives it plenty of time to chill and for the flavors to meld. It’s also a great way to prep ahead of time if you’re hosting a party or bringing it to a potluck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! My go-to 5 Cup Salad Recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a refreshing side dish, or a potluck superstar, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver. And honestly, it’s one of those recipes that just makes me happy. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always brings a smile to my face.
If you love this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other easy dessert recipes! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear about your variations and add-ins. Happy salad-making!
5 Cup Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Chopped red cabbage
- 1 cup Chopped carrots
- 1 cup Chopped cucumbers
- 0.5 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Wash and chop all vegetables.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
