5 Cup Salad (Classic Retro Fruit Salad)

Introduction

5 Cup Salad is a beloved retro recipe that has stood the test of time thanks to its simplicity, nostalgia, and irresistible creamy-sweet flavor. True to its name, this classic dish uses five ingredients—each measured by the cup—making it one of the easiest salads you’ll ever prepare. No baking, no cooking, and no complicated steps required.

Popular at potlucks, church dinners, holidays, and family gatherings, 5 Cup Salad walks the line between salad and dessert. It combines juicy fruit, fluffy marshmallows, sweet coconut, and tangy sour cream into a creamy mixture that’s refreshing, comforting, and surprisingly addictive.

This recipe became a staple in mid-century American kitchens because it was affordable, quick, and always a crowd-pleaser. Today, it remains just as popular, especially for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer cookouts. Best of all, it tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

If you love vintage recipes with big flavor and zero stress, 5 Cup Salad is a must-have classic.

Ingredients

1 cup mandarin oranges, drained

1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained

1 cup miniature marshmallows

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup sour cream

Preparation
Step 1: Drain the Fruit

Drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple very well. Excess liquid will make the salad runny, so this step is essential.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, and shredded coconut.

Step 3: Add the Sour Cream

Add the sour cream to the bowl and gently fold everything together until evenly coated and creamy.

Step 4: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably longer, to allow flavors to blend and marshmallows to soften.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Serve chilled.

Variations

Cool Whip Version: Replace sour cream with whipped topping for a sweeter salad.

Pineapple Orange Only: Skip coconut for a simpler fruit-forward version.

Cherry 5 Cup Salad: Add ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries.

Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Light Version: Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Cooking Notes

Drain fruit thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.

Mini marshmallows soften as the salad chills.

Do not overmix—fold gently to keep fruit intact.

Chill time improves flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve 5 Cup Salad chilled as a side dish or dessert. It pairs perfectly with holiday meals, BBQs, potlucks, and Sunday dinners. Spoon into small bowls or serve alongside cakes and pies for a nostalgic dessert spread.

Tips

Chill overnight for best flavor.

Use full-fat sour cream for classic taste.

Stir gently before serving.

Store covered to maintain freshness.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

0 minutes (No-Bake)

Total Time

1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 220

Protein: 3g

Sodium: 70mg

FAQs

Why is it called 5 Cup Salad?
Because it uses five ingredients, each measured as one cup.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made several hours or a day ahead.

How long does 5 Cup Salad last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Is this a dessert or a side dish?
It’s traditionally served as either—especially at potlucks.

Conclusion

5 Cup Salad is a timeless, no-fuss recipe that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Creamy, fruity, and delightfully nostalgic, this retro classic is perfect for gatherings, holidays, and make-ahead meals. Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, this easy salad delivers comfort and charm in every spoonful.

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