Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 package (3.4 oz / 96 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 container (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup cottage cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Fruit
- Drain the mandarin oranges well.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
2️⃣ Mix the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple and vanilla pudding mix.
- Stir for 1 minute until the pudding mix is evenly incorporated.
3️⃣ Add Creamy Ingredients
- Fold in the whipped topping.
- Add the cottage cheese if using.
- Mix gently until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Add Marshmallows
- Stir in the mini marshmallows.
- Mix until evenly distributed.
5️⃣ Fold in Oranges
- Carefully fold in the mandarin orange segments.
- Be gentle so the oranges stay intact.
6️⃣ Chill
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- This allows the flavors to blend and the mixture to thicken.
7️⃣ Serve
- Spoon into a serving bowl.
- Garnish with extra mandarin orange segments on top.
- Serve chilled.
💡 Tips
- Chill for 2–4 hours for the best texture.
- Add shredded coconut for extra flavor.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
❓Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
✅ Yes! It can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
Q: Can I use fresh oranges?
✅ Absolutely. Peel and segment fresh mandarins or clementines.
Q: How long does it last?
✅ Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
🍽️ Servings
8–10 servings
📊 Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
🍊✨ A light, creamy, fruity dessert salad that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings! 😋