Classic Mandarin Orange Salad

🍊 Classic Mandarin Orange Salad (Creamy & Refreshing)

A timeless family favorite — light, fluffy, sweet, and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or quick desserts!

⏱ Time

Prep: 10 min • Chill: 1 hour • Total: ~1h10
Serves: 6–8

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 can (11 oz / 300 g) mandarin oranges, drained

  • 1 can (20 oz / 560 g) crushed pineapple, drained

  • 1 box (3.4 oz / 96 g) instant vanilla pudding mix

  • 1 cup cold milk

  • 1 tub (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional but classic)

Optional add-ins:

  • ½ cup shredded coconut

  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

  • ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk pudding mix + cold milk until thick (about 2 minutes).

  2. Gently fold in whipped topping.

  3. Add mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows.

  4. Mix carefully to keep it light and fluffy.

  5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

💡 Tips for Best Flavor

  • Drain fruit very well to avoid watery salad.

  • Chill overnight for even better texture.

  • Serve cold — this salad is best super refreshing.

🥄 Perfect For:

✔ Potlucks
✔ BBQs
✔ Family dinners
✔ Holiday tables
✔ Quick desserts

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