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Mandarin Orange Salad

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This Mandarin Orange Salad is a quick, refreshing, and delicious side dish or dessert. Combining the sweetness of mandarins with the richness of vanilla pudding and Cool Whip, this dish is a perfect treat for any occasion. It’s super easy to make and can even be customized to suit your taste preferences, such as opting for sugar-free ingredients for a healthier version.

Ingredients

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  • 1 package vanilla instant pudding mix (use dry, sugar-free optional)
  • 1 large can of crushed pineapple (undrained)
  • 2 medium/large cans of mandarin oranges (drained)
  • 1 package Cool Whip (8 oz, fat-free optional)

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cool Whip and the dry instant vanilla pudding mix. Do not prepare the pudding; just use it as is.
  • Add the undrained crushed pineapple to the bowl and stir well.
  • Drain both cans of mandarin oranges and add them to the mixture. Stir to combine. You can use more or fewer mandarins based on your preference.
  • Save a few mandarin oranges to decorate the top of the salad for a garnish.
  • Refrigerate the salad for a couple of hours to allow it to thicken.
  • Once thickened, serve as a side dish with your meal or as a sweet dessert option. It can also be served with ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Notes

  • You can make this recipe healthier by using low-sugar or sugar-free instant pudding mix and Cool Whip, and by opting for fresh mandarins.
  • The recipe can also be modified by adding other fruits or mix-ins of your choice.
  • The salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.
  • For an extra festive touch, consider garnishing with crushed candy canes during the holidays.
  • Fresh mandarins give the salad a fresh taste, but canned mandarins work just fine for convenience.

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