Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad is a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a light and fruity treat. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries and bananas with the creamy texture of whipped topping and pudding mix, creating a heavenly dish that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how easy it is to make this delicious fluff salad!
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mix
- Combine Pudding Mix and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Whisk together until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken.
Step 2: Fold in Whipped Topping
- Add Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until well combined and smooth. This creates the creamy base for your fluff salad.
Step 3: Add the Fruit
- Prepare the Fruit: Hull and slice the fresh strawberries, and slice the bananas. Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
- Mix in the Fruit: Add the sliced strawberries, bananas, and drained pineapple to the pudding mixture. Gently fold the fruit into the mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Nuts
- Incorporate Marshmallows and Nuts: Fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped walnuts (if using). These add a delightful texture and crunch to the salad.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Chill the Salad
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up slightly.
Cooking Note
- For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries and bananas. Overripe bananas can become mushy in the salad.
- Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad as a refreshing dessert or a sweet side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
- Garnish with additional sliced strawberries, banana slices, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a decorative touch.
- Pair it with grilled meats or light summer dishes for a balanced meal.
Tips
- For a healthier version, use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt to the pudding mixture.
- Substitute the vanilla pudding
mix with cheesecake or banana pudding mix for a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t like walnuts, you can use pecans or leave the nuts out entirely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of fresh fruit, creamy pudding, and fluffy marshmallows creates a dessert that’s both light and satisfying. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just looking for a simple yet delightful dessert, this Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this refreshing treat with your loved ones!
Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this delightful Strawberry Banana Fluff Salad, a creamy mix of strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows. Quick and perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
- Gently stir in the mini marshmallows, sliced strawberries, sliced bananas, and pineapple tidbits.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best results, add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
- Can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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