Frog Eye Salad Recipe: Easy Pineapple Pasta Fruit Salad with Marshmallows

frog eye salad: A Creamy Pineapple Pasta Fruit Salad

If you’re craving a delicious summertime treat, frog eye salad is the perfect chilled dessert salad to whip up in under 15 minutes. This American classic blends tiny acini di pepe pasta with sweet pineapple, zesty mandarin oranges, chewy coconut, and fluffy marshmallows in a luscious pineapple cream dressing.

Key Ingredients for Frog Eye Salad

• 1¾ cups unsweetened pineapple juice
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups acini di pepe pasta (or orzo)
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 3 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
• 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
• 11 ounces mandarin orange segments, drained
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves and bring to a simmer.
2. Add the acini di pepe pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Gradually stir in ½ cup of the cooled pineapple juice.
4. Fold in the cooked pasta, crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and coconut until evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld and pasta to fully absorb the dressing.
6. Fluff gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with extra coconut or a few mandarin segments for a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Frog Eye Salad

• Choose the Right Pasta: Acini di pepe gives the classic look of “frog eyes,” but orzo or small ditalini work in a pinch.
• Chill Thoroughly: For that perfectly creamy texture, let your salad rest in the fridge at least 8 hours.
• Customize Your Fruit: Swap in pineapple chunks or even diced mango for a tropical twist.
• Lighten It Up: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-packed variation.

Serving & Storage

Serve your frog eye salad chilled in small bowls or ramekins—perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and summer gatherings. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better with time!

Nutrition per serving (approx.): 581 kcal | Carbs 114 g | Fat 11 g | Protein 9 g | Sugar 75 g

There’s nothing quite like the refreshing, creamy chew of this frog eye salad to brighten up any gathering.

Recipe courtesy of Allrecipes