Tropical Ambrosia Salad

20 oz. can pineapple tidbits
1 small pkg. (3.4 oz.) instant coconut cream or vanilla pudding mix
8 oz. whipped topping, thawed
4 T. flaked coconut, toasted, divided use
1-2 c. mini marshmallows
maraschino cherries, optional
1 tsp. maraschino cherry juice, optional

Drain pineapple, reserving juice; set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice and pudding mix; beat on low speed (or use wire whisk) for 2 minutes, or until thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Stir in pineapple, marshmallows, and 3 T. coconut. Transfer to serving bowl. Garnish with remaining coconut, cherries, and cherry juice if desired. Chill until serving. Yields 6-8 servings.

Variation notes: Add 11 oz. can of mandarin oranges (drained) with the pineapple tidbits. I also used only half of a container of whipped topping.


Janice R.