Description
This Macaroni Fruit Salad is a popular Filipino dessert salad featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with a medley of fruits like fruit cocktail, pineapple, apples, grapes, and mini marshmallows, all tossed in a creamy dressing made from condensed milk, mayonnaise or cream, and a hint of lemon juice. It’s a sweet, refreshing treat perfect for gatherings and celebrations, served chilled to bring out its luscious flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni and Fruits
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup fruit cocktail, drained
- 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1/2 cup diced apples
- 1/4 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
Dressing
- 1/4 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or all-purpose cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, boiling until al dente. Drain the macaroni and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain and cool completely.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni along with the drained fruit cocktail, pineapple tidbits, diced apples, halved grapes, and mini marshmallows. This creates the fruit and pasta base of the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed milk, mayonnaise (or all-purpose cream), lemon juice, and sugar if using. This dressing adds the creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the macaroni and fruit mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the salad is nicely chilled before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of condensed milk to suit your taste.
- Use all-purpose cream instead of mayonnaise for a milder, creamier flavor.
- For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut.
- Best served cold, making it a refreshing dessert for warm weather or fiestas.
