If you’re from the South, chances are you’ve been to many a potluck where ambrosia salad graced the table. In fact, at any given church fellowship, there might even be two or three versions of it!
Funny thing, I checked into the history of ambrosia and realized I’m a little lax on my knowledge of Greek mythology. I had no idea that the word ambrosia is the name of the magically delicious food that helped the Greek gods maintain their immortality. (Now, that’s what I call a pretty serious health claim!)
Yet, I can’t help but find it a bit ironic that this dish named after a mythological superfood has so many health faux pas with its processed marshmallows, red-dye laden maraschino cherries, and oftentimes cool whip. Ouch!
The good news … you can create a healthier version using homemade dairy or non-dairy Greek-style yogurt combined with wholesome fresh fruits and unsweetened coconut.
Of course, there’s only one food that can truly bring eternal life (John 6:35-69). Thank you, Lord!
When it simply comes to enjoying the familiar taste of Southern-style ambrosia, this real food version is a satisfying treat that provides a great dose of probiotics, as well as a healthy boost of nutrition!
This healthy ambrosia salad yogurt parfait, can easily be transformed in an ambrosia fruit salad by simply doubling or tripling the ingredients as described in the recipe below. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup homemade dairy or non-dairy Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mandarin orange sections (learn how to section an orange)
- 1 cup fresh diced pineapple
- 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
- Optional: 1 tbsp crispy walnuts or pecans
- Optional: 1-2 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions
- If desired, toast 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened coconut flakes to use as garnish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey and vanilla. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, add the orange sections, pineapple, shredded coconut and nuts, if desired. Toss to combine.
- Fold the yogurt into the fruit and top with toasted coconut flakes. Absolutely delicious!
Notes
Recipe Variation: For a classic ambrosia-style fruit salad, double or triple the amount of fruit in this recipe, but keep the yogurt, honey and vanilla measurements the same. This will result in a delicious creamy fruit salad perfect for summer entertaining!
P.S. Feel free to add or substitute fruits, as desired. Some delicious options include: Kiwi, red grapes, cherries, etc.