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Ambrosia With Acini Di Pepe Recipe

This vibrant and refreshing Ambrosia salad with acini di pepe (small pasta dots) is a crowd-pleasing dessert that's perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any summer gathering! This recipe features a delightful blend of sweet fruit, creamy textures, and a touch of playful color. Easily customizable for any occasion – add green food coloring for St. Patrick's Day or extra red for Valentine's Day! Make it ahead of time; the flavors meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator, ensuring a delicious and memorable treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 19 mins
Calories 398.6 kcal
Protein 11g
Rating 4.6 (7 Reviews)
Ambrosia With Acini Di Pepe

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Ambrosia With Acini Di Pepe

  • Acini Di Pepe Pasta
  • 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
  • 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
  • Miniature Marshmallows
  • 2 (8 ounce) containers whipped topping
  • 8 drops red food coloring (optional, adjust to preference or use green)

How to Make Ambrosia With Acini Di Pepe

  1. Cook 1 cup of acini di pepe pasta according to package directions. Drain completely and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine:
  3. * 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
  4. * 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
  5. * 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
  6. * 2 (8 ounce) containers whipped topping
  7. * 8 drops red food coloring (adjust to your preference or use green for St. Patrick's Day)
  8. Gently fold in 3/4 of a (10 ounce) bag of mini marshmallows.
  9. Add the cooked and drained acini di pepe to the bowl.
  10. Stir gently to combine. Allow to sit for 1 minute, then stir again to allow some marshmallows to melt slightly.
  11. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.
  12. The next morning, gently fold in the remaining 1/4 of the mini marshmallows and the remaining (8 ounce) container of whipped topping.
  13. Stir until well combined.
  14. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy this delightful summer dessert!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

4 g

Sugar

144g

Fat

49g

Carbs

20g

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