Go Back

Ambrosia Salad with Jell-O

This simple, no-bake ambrosia salad combines thawed whipped topping with strawberry gelatin, crushed pineapple, chopped walnuts, and miniature marshmallows. It's quickly assembled and then chilled for several hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set, creating a delightfully sweet and creamy dessert or side dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 3287.7
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 12 ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 6 ounce package strawberry-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O®)
  • 1 8 ounce can crushed pineapple with juice
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 10 ounce package miniature marshmallows

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Rubber Spatula or Large Spoon For gentle folding
  • 1 Can Opener
  • 1 Serving Dish For chilling and presentation

Method
 

  1. Ensure the frozen whipped topping is completely thawed in the refrigerator before beginning.
  2. Using a can opener, open the can of crushed pineapple.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder with the crushed pineapple, including its juice. Stir thoroughly with a rubber spatula or large spoon until the gelatin powder is mostly dissolved.
  4. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the gelatin-pineapple mixture until just combined, taking care not to deflate the whipped topping.
  5. Add the chopped walnuts and miniature marshmallows to the bowl.
  6. Carefully fold all ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a clean serving dish or bowl.
  8. Cover the serving dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the salad to set completely and the flavors to fully meld.
  9. Serve chilled.

Notes

1. Ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed but still very cold before incorporating to maintain its structure and achieve the desired creamy texture. Do not overmix once the whipped topping is added, as this can deflate it.2. The juice from the crushed pineapple is crucial for dissolving the gelatin powder and infusing flavor. For an even firmer set, ensure adequate chilling time—at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.3. For an elevated touch, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor and add a pleasant crunch. A sprinkle of shredded coconut or fresh berries as a garnish can also improve presentation and add textural contrast.