Get ready for a unique and delicious side dish that's always a crowd-pleaser! This guide will show you how to make a classic Frog Eye Salad, a sweet and tangy pasta salad that's perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any gathering. We'll explore the key frog eye salad ingredients and touch upon its interesting frog eye salad origin, particularly its connection to the Frog Eye salad Mormon community. While it might sound unusual, this Acini de Pepe Salad, sometimes compared to Frog Eye Salad vs. Ambrosia Salad, is a delightful treat.
What ingredients are in frog eye salad?
The main ingredients in Frog Eye Salad typically include
- Acini de Pepe pasta (the "frog eyes")
- Pineapple (crushed and tidbits)
- Mandarin oranges
- Marshmallows (miniature)
- A sweet and tangy dressing made with cooked eggs, sugar, flour, and pineapple juice.
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Variations may include coconut or other fruits.
Why is it called frog eye salad?
The salad gets its quirky name from the small, round Acini de Pepe pasta, which resembles tiny frog eyes.
What are the balls in frog eye salad?
The "balls" in frog eye salad are the Acini de Pepe pasta. These tiny, spherical pasta shapes are the signature ingredient of the dish.
How long is frog eye salad good for in the fridge?
Frog Eye Salad is generally good for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, it's best enjoyed sooner for optimal texture, as the pasta may absorb more of the dressing over time.
Step-by-Step Frog Eye Salad Recipe
Yields: 10-12 servings
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (for custard base) + pasta cooking time
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (about 8 ounces) Acini de Pepe pasta
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
For the Custard Dressing:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can of crushed pineapple, plus more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Acini de Pepe Pasta
Cook the acini de pepe pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in the 1 cup of pineapple juice until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Custard
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Boil for 1 minute, continuing to stir.
Step 4: Finish the Dressing
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the dressing is smooth. Pour the custard dressing into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dressing to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until completely cooled.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Once the custard dressing and pasta are completely cooled, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the custard until well combined and smooth.
Step 6: Add the Fruits and Pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooled acini de pepe pasta, undrained crushed pineapple, and drained mandarin oranges. If using, add the shredded coconut.
Step 7: Mix and Chill
Pour the creamy custard dressing over the pasta and fruit mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Fold in the miniature marshmallows. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Before serving, you can give the salad a gentle stir. This delightful Acini de Pepe Salad (aka Frog Eye Salad) is ready to be enjoyed! It's a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
Enjoy this fun and tasty Frog Eye Salad! It’s a unique dish that's sure to spark conversation and delight your taste buds. You've now learned a recipe that even the Pioneer Woman Frog Eye Salad enthusiasts would approve of!
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