Citrus Ambrosia Salad Without Marshmallows
Citrus Ambrosia Salad Without Marshmallows is fresh, light, and naturally sweet. This quick, no-bake fruit salad brings a nostalgic touch to holidays and brunch without feeling heavy. Made with fresh grapefruit, sweet oranges, maraschino cherries, and coconut, it’s gently chilled so the citrus juices create a glossy finish, no Cool Whip or whipped cream needed.
Servings: 10
Calories: 151kcal
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife or paring knife (for precise citrus segmenting)
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Serving Bowl
Ingredients
- 5 large grapefruit
- 6 large sweet oranges (Sumo or very ripe navel)
- 1 (10-ounce jar) drained maraschino cherries, stems removed reserve a few with stems for garnish
- 1 tablespoon reserved cherry juice
- ½ cup fresh citrus juice collected from the segmented fruit
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut optional
- small pinch fine sea salt
Instructions
- Trim the tops and bottoms from the grapefruit and oranges. Remove the peel, seeds, and all white pith. Working over a large bowl to catch the juices, cut between the membranes to release clean segments. Discard membranes.
- Drain the entire 10-ounce jar of maraschino cherries, reserving 1 tablespoon of the cherry juice and a few cherries. Add the cherries and shredded coconut (if using) to the bowl with the citrus and gently fold to combine.
- Measure about ½ cup of the reserved citrus juice and pour it back over the fruit. Add a small pinch of fine sea salt and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar and one tablespoon of cherry juice evenly over the fruit and fold once or twice to distribute.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving so the flavors blend and the coconut softens slightly. Taste and adjust with a small squeeze of fresh orange juice if needed.
Video
Notes
Cooking Notes
Segment citrus carefully to avoid bitterness. Drain cherries well so the salad doesn’t become watery. Chill before serving for the best flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- Remove all white pith for a clean flavor.
- Chill for at least one hour for proper blending.
- Drain cherries thoroughly.
- Fold gently to keep the fruit intact.
Nutrition
Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 416mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 2141IU | Vitamin C: 108mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 0.4mg
