Tropical Paradise Acini di Pepe Salad with Citrus Whip

Recipe Collection: Salads

Tropical Paradise Acini di Pepe Salad with Citrus Whip elevates your summer gatherings with a refreshing balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This vegetarian Italian-American dish combines tender acini di pepe pasta with a medley of juicy fruits, all enveloped in a luscious whipped citrus cream. Perfect for potlucks or festive occasions, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

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Overview

This Tropical Bliss Acini di Pepe Salad is a delightful fusion of tender pasta and vibrant fruits, enveloped in a luscious whipped citrus cream. Perfect for summer gatherings or holiday feasts, this refreshing salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its blend of sweet and tangy flavors.

Diet Type

Vegetarian

Allergies

Eggs, Dairy, Gluten

Cuisine

Italian-American

Serving Size: 8

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Cup acini di pepe pasta
• 20 Ounces (oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 15 Ounces (oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 Cup white sugar
• 2 Large eggs, whisked
• 3 Tablespoons (tbsp) all-purpose flour
• 0.5 Teaspoon (tsp) salt
• 8 Ounces (oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 7 Ounces (oz) miniature marshmallows
• 10 Ounces (oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained
• 1 Teaspoon (tsp) vanilla extract
• 0.5 Teaspoon (tsp) lemon zest
• 0.5 Teaspoon (tsp) orange zest

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the acini di pepe pasta until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the reserved pineapple and mandarin orange juices (about 1.5 cups), sugar, whisked eggs, flour, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the cooked pasta into the custard mixture, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, transfer the pasta mixture to a large serving bowl. Gently fold in the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, whipped topping, and miniature marshmallows.
5. Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest, stirring gently to combine.
6. Top the salad with maraschino cherries for a festive touch, if desired.
7. Keep the salad chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy the tropical flavors and creamy texture of this delightful dish!

Enjoy making and tasting this vibrantly sweet and creamy salad!