If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, this 5 Cup Salad is your new best friend. It’s creamy, fruity, and loaded with nostalgic flavors that will take you straight back to childhood potlucks and family gatherings. Trust me, this one’s a keeper! Whether you need a quick treat for a party, a side dish for a barbecue, or just a sweet pick-me-up, this salad has you covered.
Why You’ll Love 5 Cup Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a friendly gathering, or just because you deserve something delicious, this dish always delivers. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect as a dessert, side dish, or sweet snack, this salad fits any occasion. Serve it at barbecues, potlucks, or even as a light treat after dinner.
Budget-Friendly
With just five simple ingredients, this is a cost-effective way to satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy
There’s no baking, no complicated steps—just mix, chill, and enjoy! It’s a foolproof recipe that comes together in minutes.
Customizable
Not a fan of one ingredient? Swap it out! Add extra marshmallows, mix in some nuts, or experiment with different fruit combinations.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. This creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy salad always disappears fast at gatherings!
Ingredients in 5 Cup Salad
Here’s the beauty of this salad—it’s made with just five simple ingredients, but the flavors come together in the most magical way:
Mandarin Oranges
Juicy and slightly tangy, they add a refreshing citrusy burst that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Pineapple Chunks
Sweet, tropical, and full of flavor, they add a delightful texture and taste that makes this salad irresistible.
Mini Marshmallows
Soft, fluffy, and a little chewy, these add a fun texture and just the right amount of sweetness.
Sweetened Coconut Flakes
Brings a slight crunch and tropical flair to the dish, enhancing every bite with a hint of nuttiness.
Sour Cream
The secret ingredient that ties everything together! It adds a creamy, slightly tangy contrast to balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, sweetened coconut flakes, and sour cream. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Let It Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the salad its signature creamy texture.
Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give it a quick stir, serve in bowls or cups, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6 Calories per serving: 180
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve 5 Cup Salad
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve it in a fancy glass and top it with a cherry for a fun presentation.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair it with a warm slice of pound cake for the ultimate dessert combo.
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit platter for a lighter option.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use fresh fruit if available – It adds a brighter flavor, but canned fruit works great too.
- Let it chill longer – If you have time, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for even better flavor.
- Lighten it up – Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
- Make it ahead – This salad is even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or parties.
- Double the batch – If serving a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients.
FAQ’s
Can I make 5 Cup Salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! It will make the salad sweeter and creamier, but it’s a great substitute if you prefer a less tangy flavor.
How long does 5 Cup Salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I add bananas to this salad?
Yes, but add them just before serving so they don’t turn brown.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I freeze 5 Cup Salad?
It’s not recommended, as freezing changes the texture of the fruit and sour cream.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
What other fruits can I add?
Try grapes, strawberries, or chopped apples for extra variety.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream in place of sour cream.
Conclusion
5 Cup Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, making it an effortless yet delicious dish for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic, a holiday dinner, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this simple recipe never disappoints. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
5 Cup Salad
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (No-Bake)
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert / Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
5 Cup Salad is a simple, creamy fruit salad made with just five ingredients: mandarin oranges, pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and sour cream. This classic dessert is a favorite at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and summer picnics. It’s light, sweet, and slightly tangy, making it a perfect no-bake treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until all ingredients are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or whipped topping instead of sour cream.
- Add chopped pecans or maraschino cherries for extra texture and flavor.
- Letting it chill overnight enhances the flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg