Get ready to dive into a delightful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Acini de Pepe Fruit Salad, affectionately known as Frog Eye Salad, is a whimsical treat that brings a burst of color and flavor to any gathering. With its chewy pasta, sweet fruits, and creamy topping, this salad is sure to be the star of your next potluck or family dinner. Perfect for both kids and adults, this recipe combines the nostalgia of childhood favorites with a refreshing twist. Curious about how to whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes? Keep reading to discover the secrets behind this deliciously unique salad!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup acini de pepe pasta
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup coconut flakes
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and milk, whisking together until smooth and well integrated.
- Cook the sugar and milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken and becomes slightly bubbly, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the sugar mixture from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.
- While the sugar mixture cools, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the acini de pepe pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained crushed pineapple, drained mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and coconut flakes.
- Fold the cooled sugar mixture into the pasta and fruit mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and chill completely.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with additional coconut flakes if desired.
Tips
- Chill for Best Flavor: While you can serve the salad right after mixing, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Fruits: Feel free to experiment with different fruits! You can add strawberries, blueberries, or even bananas for a personal touch that suits your taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, consider reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute. The sweetness of the fruits can also help balance the flavors.
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Make sure to rinse the acini de pepe pasta with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Presentation Matters: For a beautiful presentation, serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish with additional coconut flakes or fresh fruit on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 5mg
