2. Classic Ambrosia Salad

Ingredients:
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist)
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 cup mini marshmallows
2 cup2 fresh mandarin oranges
1 cup fresh crushed pineapple
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions:
In a large bowl, gently mix sour cream and whipped topping until smooth.
Fold in marshmallows, fruit, coconut, and nuts (if using).
Cover and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
Serve cold, optionally topped with extra whipped cream or toasted coconut.

3. Classic Watergate Salad

Ingredients:
1 box pistachio pudding mix
1 can crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans, walnuts or pistachios
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
Make whipped cream: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Mix pudding and pineapple: Combine the dry pudding mix and pineapple with juice.

Add marshmallows and nuts: Stir those in gently.

Fold in whipped cream: Carefully fold in the whipped cream until everything is fluffy and mixed.

Chill & serve: Let it chill for 1–2 hours. Top with extra nuts or cherries.

4. Grape Pecan Salad

Ingredients:
4 cups seedless grapes (red, green, or a mix), washed and patted dry
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup pecans, chopped
½ cup brown sugar (for topping)

Instructions:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the grapes until fully coated.
Transfer to a serving dish.
In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans with brown sugar, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving so it’s cold and set.