Mandarin Orange Salad

Here’s a detailed, classic Mandarin Orange Salad with clear step-by-step directions.

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Mandarin Orange Salad (Classic Creamy Version)

Serves

6–8 people

Preparation Time

15 minutes
Chilling time: 1–2 hours (recommended)

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Ingredients

Salad

• 1 large can (20 oz / about 565 g) crushed pineapple, do not drain

• 2 cans (11 oz each / about 312 g) mandarin oranges, well drained

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

• 1 container (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping (Cool Whip or equivalent), thawed

• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional but traditional)

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

1. Open the cans of mandarin oranges.

2. Drain them thoroughly using a colander. Excess liquid will make the salad watery.

3. Set the drained oranges aside.

4. Open the can of crushed pineapple without draining it. The juice is necessary for the pudding to set.

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Step 2: Mix Pineapple and Pudding

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the crushed pineapple along with all its juice.

2. Sprinkle the dry instant vanilla pudding mix evenly over the pineapple.

3. Stir well with a spoon or whisk until the pudding mix is fully dissolved.

4. Continue mixing for about 1–2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.

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Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

1. Add the thawed whipped topping to the pineapple-pudding mixture.

2. Gently fold it in using a spatula.

3. Mix just until smooth and fully combined. Do not overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping.

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Step 4: Add the Oranges and Extras

1. Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges.

2. If using marshmallows, coconut, nuts, or grapes, fold them in at this stage.

3. Stir carefully to avoid breaking up the orange segments.

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Step 5: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2 hours.

3. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and the salad to fully set.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Stir the salad lightly before serving.

2. Spoon into individual bowls or serve as a side dish.

3. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

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Storage

• Store covered in the refrigerator.

• Best consumed within 2–3 days.

• Do not freeze; freezing will change the texture.