Introduction
Have you ever needed a super quick and tasty side dish for a family dinner, picnic, or holiday gathering? If yes, then 5 Cup Salad might be just what you’re looking for! This classic American dessert salad is creamy, sweet, fruity, and incredibly simple to make. You don’t need to be a chef — just mix five ingredients, and it’s done!
The name “5 Cup Salad” comes from the fact that it uses five ingredients — each one measured as one cup. You can even adjust it slightly to match your taste, but the base recipe stays wonderfully easy. Now let’s take a closer look at what goes into this creamy and delicious dish.
Ingredients – Cup Salad
Here are the five main ingredients you’ll need to make 5 Cup Salad. Each one should be measured as 1 cup.
Ingredients List:
- Mini Marshmallows – soft and sweet; they add a nice chewy texture.
- Crushed Pineapple (drained) – juicy and slightly tangy; brings in fruity flavor.
- Mandarin Oranges (drained) – sweet and soft; makes the salad bright and fresh.
- Sour Cream – adds creaminess and balances the sweetness.
- Shredded Sweetened Coconut – for a tropical touch and a bit of chew.
Optional Add-ins (if you like):
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Maraschino cherries for color.
- Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Step by Step Process – Cup Salad
Making this salad is as easy as counting to five. No cooking, no baking — just mixing!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Make sure the pineapple and mandarin oranges are well-drained. Too much liquid will make the salad runny.
- Open your bag of mini marshmallows and shredded coconut.
- Measure out 1 cup of each ingredient.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed pineapple
- 1 cup mandarin oranges
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- Use a large spoon to gently mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend and the marshmallows soften a bit.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once chilled, give it a gentle stir.
- Spoon into small bowls or cups.
- Garnish with a cherry or a sprinkle of coconut if you like!
That’s it! You’ve just made a simple and yummy 5 Cup Salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230-270 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 4% of Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make 5 Cup Salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead. You can prepare it a day before serving and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Q2: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds extra protein and has a similar creamy texture. You can also try half yogurt and half sour cream.
Q3: Is 5 Cup Salad a dessert or a side dish?
It can be both! Some people serve it as a dessert, while others serve it as a side dish during dinner, especially at holidays or potlucks.
Q4: Can I add nuts or other fruits?
Yes, feel free to get creative. Chopped pecans, cherries, bananas, grapes, or even mini chocolate chips can be added to give it extra flavor and crunch.
Q5: How long can I store it in the fridge?
You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, it may get too watery as the fruits release juice.
Final Thoughts
5 Cup Salad is the perfect mix of sweet, creamy, and fruity. It’s one of those old-fashioned recipes that never go out of style. What makes it so special is how easy it is — no oven, no special tools, and only five basic ingredients.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday meal, summer picnic, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Even kids enjoy it because of the marshmallows and fruit! So the next time you want something quick, tasty, and fun to make, remember this: five simple cups — one unforgettable salad.
