why make this recipe
Mandarin Orange Salad is a delightful dish that combines sweet and refreshing flavors with a creamy texture. This salad is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a family barbecue or a holiday meal. It’s easy to make and will impress your guests with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Plus, it doubles as a light dessert!
how to make Mandarin Orange Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 large can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 2 medium/large cans mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 package (8 oz) Cool Whip
Directions:
- In a large bowl, gently mix the Cool Whip and dry instant vanilla pudding mix until fully combined and fluffy.
- Stir in the undrained crushed pineapple and drained mandarin oranges.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the salad firm up and the flavors meld.
- Just before serving, garnish with reserved mandarin slices. Enjoy chilled as a side dish or dessert!
how to serve Mandarin Orange Salad
Serve Mandarin Orange Salad in a large bowl or individual cups. It looks pretty when garnished with extra mandarin slices on top. This salad is great as a side dish at meals or as a light dessert on a warm day.
how to store Mandarin Orange Salad
You can store Mandarin Orange Salad in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it’s been sitting for a while.
tips to make Mandarin Orange Salad
- Make sure to gently fold the ingredients together to keep the Cool Whip fluffy.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for extra texture if you like.
- For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut.
variation
If you want to change it up, you can replace the vanilla pudding with another flavor, like coconut or banana. You can also add other fruits like strawberries or grapes.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mandarins and pineapples, but you may need to adjust the sweetness.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you check the pudding mix label, Mandarin Orange Salad can be gluten-free.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day before your event. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
