5-Cup Salad

If you’re looking for a simple, sweet, and refreshing salad that’s perfect for gatherings or a quick side dish, 5-Cup Salad is where it’s at! This classic salad is as easy as it is delicious, combining a mix of fruit, creamy ingredients, and a sweet dressing that everyone loves. It’s a great balance of textures and flavors that’s sure to brighten up any meal. Trust me, this salad is a total crowd-pleaser—whether it’s at a holiday dinner, potluck, or just as a treat for yourself.

Why You’ll Love 5-Cup Salad

• Simple Ingredients: Made with just five main ingredients, this salad is quick and easy to whip up. No complicated prep—just fresh, creamy, and sweet!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, a backyard BBQ, or just a light side dish, this salad is always a hit.
• Deliciously Creamy: The creamy base made with sour cream and pineapple gives it a rich, smooth texture that’s just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
• Versatile: You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative!
• Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance (or even the night before), making it an ideal option for busy days when you want something easy and delicious.

Ingredients in 5-Cup Salad

Here’s what you’ll need for this sweet and creamy salad:

• 1 Cup Mini Marshmallows: These soft, sweet bites are a fun texture in the salad and add a touch of sweetness.
• 1 Cup Pineapple Tidbits: Sweet and juicy pineapple adds a tropical burst of flavor. You can use fresh or canned (just make sure to drain the juice).
• 1 Cup Coconut Flakes: These chewy coconut flakes bring a tropical richness and a lovely texture to the salad.
• 1 Cup Sour Cream: The creamy base of the salad, sour cream balances out the sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows.
• 1 Cup Mandarin Oranges: These juicy, tangy oranges add a fresh pop of flavor and vibrant color to the salad.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are available in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make your 5-Cup Salad:

Step 1: Drain the Fruit

If you’re using canned pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges, drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the salad. You want the fruit to stay nice and fresh, not soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, pineapple tidbits, coconut flakes, and mandarin oranges. Stir them together gently to combine.

Step 3: Add the Sour Cream

Add the sour cream to the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Stir everything together until it’s evenly coated. The sour cream adds a creamy, tangy texture that balances out the sweetness.

Step 4: Chill

For best results, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad chilled, and enjoy! It’s the perfect light and refreshing side dish that pairs well with almost anything.

How to Serve 5-Cup Salad

• As a Side Dish: It’s the perfect accompaniment to main dishes like grilled chicken, ham, or BBQ.
• At Potlucks: This salad is a classic at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches, so it’s great for feeding a crowd.
• As a Light Dessert: If you’re looking for something light after a big meal, this salad can double as a dessert. The sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Additional Tips

• Make It Ahead: This salad can be made up to a day ahead of time, and it tastes even better once the flavors have had time to meld together.
• Swap the Fruit: You can easily swap out the mandarin oranges for fresh berries or grapes, or even add some chopped apples or bananas for extra texture.
• Add Nuts: For some extra crunch, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Use Whipped Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the sour cream for whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: 150
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 35mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 1g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad without sour cream?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor, or use whipped cream for a lighter, sweeter version.

Q2: How long can I store leftovers?
A2: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving!

Q3: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A3: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works just as well. Just be sure to chop it into small, bite-sized pieces and drain any excess juice.

Q4: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A4: Yes, you can! In fact, this salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, giving the flavors a chance to meld together.

Q5: What can I use if I don’t like coconut?
A5: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can simply leave it out or replace it with chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture.

Q6: Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
A6: Yes, you can! Just chop the regular marshmallows into smaller pieces to make them easier to mix into the salad.

Q7: Can I add other fruits?
A7: Yes! You can add other fruits like grapes, chopped apples, or berries. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too much juice can make the salad soggy.

Q8: Is this salad gluten-free?
A8: Yes! All the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Q9: How do I make this salad vegan?
A9: To make this salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or whipped coconut cream, and use vegan marshmallows.

Q10: How can I make this salad more festive?
A10: To make it extra festive, you can add some red and green fruit for a holiday touch, like strawberries or kiwi. You can also serve it in a fancy bowl or garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Conclusion

This 5-Cup Salad is the ultimate simple, sweet, and creamy dish that will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. It’s easy to make, light, and versatile, making it the perfect addition to any meal or celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, dessert, or a fun potluck contribution, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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