Frog Eye Salad

Who doesn’t love a refreshing, fruity salad that’s both delicious and eye-catching? Today, we’re introducing you to a unique and whimsical dessert salad that will delight your senses: Frog Eye Salad.

Don’t worry; no frogs were harmed in the making of this salad. The name comes from the use of acini di pepe pasta, which are small, round pasta beads that resemble frog eyes.

Originally from the Midwest, this vibrant dish is making its way into kitchens and gatherings all over the country. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even a simple weeknight dessert – and it’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter!

Texture and Flavor: A Perfect Harmony

What makes Frog Eye Salad so unique is the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The acini di pepe pasta adds a tender bite that contrasts beautifully with the juicy fruits, like pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and grapes. A creamy, slightly sweet yogurt dressing ties everything together, while mini marshmallows and toasted coconut flakes provide the finishing touch.

Not only is this dish visually appealing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. All you need is a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, and you’ll have a stunning and delicious dessert salad that will make you the star of any gathering.

A Salad for All Seasons

One of the best things about Frog Eye Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste buds or accommodate dietary restrictions. Try swapping out the fruits for other seasonal favorites, or use dairy-free yogurt and whipped topping to make it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

No matter how you choose to make it, this salad is perfect for any occasion – from summer barbecues to cozy winter gatherings. The bright, fruity flavors and creamy dressing are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Pairing Suggestions

Frog Eye Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side or dessert option. Try serving it alongside savory options like grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or veggie burgers. It also complements other salads, such as a leafy green salad or a pasta salad, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

So, are you ready to bring this delightful and whimsical dessert salad to your table? We promise that once you try Frog Eye Salad, it will become a regular addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy eating!

Frog Eye Salad

Course: DessertCuisine: American

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

A whimsical, fruity dessert salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

• 1 cup acini di pepe pasta, uncooked

• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained

• 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained

• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

• 1 cup vanilla yogurt

• 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions

• Cook acini di pepe pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, grapes, mini marshmallows, and toasted coconut.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla yogurt, whipped topping, and granulated sugar.
• Gently fold the cooked and cooled acini di pepe pasta into the fruit mixture.
• Add the yogurt mixture to the pasta and fruit, and stir until well combined.
• Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

• For a fun variation, add maraschino cherries or diced kiwi to the salad.
• To make this dish more protein-rich, add a cup of cottage cheese to the yogurt mixture.
• If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar or omit it entirely.

This delightful Frog Eye Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it the perfect accompaniment to a potluck or picnic spread. Serve it alongside savory BBQ dishes like grilled chicken, pulled pork, or hamburgers for a touch of fruity sweetness to balance out the flavors.

It also complements light summer salads, such as a classic Caesar or a tangy coleslaw. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a slice of key lime pie or a scoop of homemade ice cream.