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5 Cup Salad – A Creamy, Fruity Classic Loved by All Ages
If you’re searching for a no-bake dessert or side dish that’s creamy, colorful, and irresistibly easy, the 5 Cup Salad is a true retro gem. Popular at potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings, this chilled treat brings together just five simple ingredients in perfect harmony: tangy sour cream, juicy fruits, chewy marshmallows, and a pop of cherry sweetness. The result is a dreamy, creamy fruit salad with a cloud-like texture and nostalgic flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. At deesviral, we love recipes that bring joy with minimal effort — and this one takes just minutes to stir up!
Ingredients:
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
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1 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
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1 cup maraschino cherries (halved, drained)
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1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
Drain the pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries thoroughly to avoid extra liquid thinning the salad. Cut the cherries in half for easier mixing and prettier presentation.
2. Combine:
In a large mixing bowl, add all five ingredients: sour cream, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, halved cherries, and mini marshmallows.
3. Mix Gently:
Fold everything together gently using a spatula until well combined. Make sure the fruit and marshmallows are evenly coated in the sour cream.
4. Chill:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the flavors meld and the marshmallows soften to that perfect texture.
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5. Serve:
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Serve cold in small bowls or on a festive platter. Garnish with extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut if desired.
Optional Add-Ins:
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½ cup shredded coconut
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½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
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A splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth
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Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or whipped topping for a lighter version
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Final Notes:
This 5 Cup Salad is proof that simplicity can be delicious. It’s sweet, creamy, slightly tangy, and full of fun textures — making it the perfect make-ahead dish for picnics, BBQs, or holiday buffets. No cooking, no measuring stress, just one cup of each ingredient and a whole lot of flavor.
At deesviral, we celebrate the dishes that bring back happy memories — and this salad is pure, sweet nostalgia in every bite.
