Orange Dreamsicle Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained

• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd)

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

• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh orange zest

• Additional whipped topping

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruits

• Drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks well in a colander. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Pudding & Cottage Cheese

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry vanilla pudding mix with the cottage cheese. Stir until fully blended. The mixture will thicken slightly.

Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping

• Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Fruits & Extras

• Carefully stir in the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, coconut (if using), and nuts (if using). Mix until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve

• Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh orange zest or an extra dollop of whipped topping if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on 6 servings.

• Calories: 280 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 6g

• Cholesterol: 5mg

• Sodium: 280mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 35g

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Tips & Variations

✅ Make it Lighter: Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
✅ Add More Citrus: Include fresh orange segments for extra zing.
✅ Crunchy Twist: Swap nuts for graham cracker crumbs.
✅ Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut whipped topping and dairy-free pudding.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍊 Creamy & dreamy – Just like the classic treat!

• ⏳ Quick & easy – No baking required.

• 🎉 Perfect for parties – A crowd-pleasing side or dessert.

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Enjoy this Orange Dreamsicle Salad as a sweet, nostalgic treat at picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings! 🧡