What ingredients are in frog eye salad?

A traditional frog eye salad includes cooked acini de pepe pasta, crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, whipped topping, and a sweet pudding or custard base. Some versions also include coconut or maraschino cherries. These ingredients come together to form the creamy texture and fruity flavor that define frog eye salad.

Is frog eye salad a Mormon thing?

Yes, frog eye salad has strong roots in Mormon culture. It became popular at church functions and community gatherings in areas with large LDS populations, especially Utah. While not exclusive to Mormons, frog eye salad is a staple in many Mormon family traditions and holiday meals.

What are the balls in frog eye salad?

The small balls in frog eye salad are acini de pepe pasta. They resemble tiny pearls and are what give the salad its frog-eye look. When coated in creamy pudding and mixed with fruit, they become soft, chewy, and sweet.

Why do they call it frog eye salad?

The name comes from the appearance of the pasta. Acini de pepe, when prepared, looks like tiny eyes scattered throughout the salad. That visual is what inspired the name frog eye salad.

Is frog eye salad a Utah thing?

Frog eye salad is especially popular in Utah. It is commonly served at family reunions, holiday parties, and church potlucks across the state. The dish has become part of Utah’s culinary identity thanks to its deep connection with community and tradition.

Frog Eye Salad – The Ultimate Classic Dessert Recipe You’ll Love

Description

This classic frog eye salad recipe combines creamy whipped topping, fruity sweetness, and acini de pepe pasta into a nostalgic and refreshing dessert perfect for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup acini de pepe pasta

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained

1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping

1 cup mini marshmallows

1 package instant vanilla pudding

2 egg yolks

1/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Cook the acini de pepe pasta according to the package directions, then rinse and cool.

2. In a saucepan, mix pineapple juice, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Heat until thickened, then chill.

3. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mandarin oranges, and the cooled pasta.

4. Add the chilled pudding mixture and fold in whipped topping.

5. Stir in mini marshmallows and mix until fully combined.

6. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

This frog eye salad is best served cold. It can be prepared a day in advance. For added flavor, include shredded coconut or maraschino cherries.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg