Ensalada Navideña is my favorite salad for the holiday table! It’s creamy, fruity, and colorful—sweet apples, juicy pineapple, raisins, pecans, and more, all in a dreamy dressing. Every bite is special, and making it is so easy that it always brings joy to my Christmas celebrations.
Quick Facts
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cooking time: 0 minutes (just chilling)
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Total time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
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Servings: 10–12
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this salad because it’s both a dessert and a side dish, creamy and light with fruit and just a touch of crunch. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser, easy to make ahead, and looks beautiful on your holiday table. Each scoop feels festive and made with love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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4–6 apples, diced
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1 can pineapple chunks (reserve the juice)
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1 cup grapes or strawberries (sliced)
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1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
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1 cup raisins
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1 cup shredded coconut
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1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
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1 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
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1 cup reserved pineapple juice
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1 small can fruit cocktail, drained (optional)
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Maraschino cherries for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, I mix sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and pineapple juice until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
I dice the apples and slice the grapes or strawberries. Then, I combine all the fruits, raisins, coconut, pecans, and marshmallows in a big mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
I pour the creamy dressing over the fruit and gently fold until everything is well coated. I cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
I scoop the salad into small bowls and top each serving with a cherry for that festive look. It’s best served cold and fresh.
Tips for Customization
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Add dried cranberries or bananas for extra flavor.
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For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
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Swap pecans with almonds or leave nuts out for allergies.
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Mix in diced celery or shredded carrots for texture.
Serving Suggestions
I serve Ensalada Navideña as a dessert, side dish, or even with breakfast pastries. It’s also a favorite for holiday potlucks and fiestas, and it travels well when made ahead.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
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Calories: about 305
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Protein: 2g
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Fat: 13g
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Carbohydrates: 49g
FAQs About Ensalada Navideña
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, making it the day before lets flavors blend perfectly. Just stir before serving.
How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Fruit may soften over time.
Can I use only fresh fruit?
Yes! Fresh fruit gives the salad a crisp bite, but canned fruit works when you’re short on time.
This Ensalada Navideña is sweet, creamy, and full of holiday cheer. It’s one of the easiest ways to bring color and joy to your table and hearts to your home.
