Description
Watergate Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert salad featuring a creamy pistachio pudding base mixed with crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, chopped pecans, and whipped topping. This nostalgic, sweet, and fluffy salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1 large can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) pistachio pudding mix
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1½ cups white mini marshmallows
- 12 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Optional Garnishes
- Additional chopped pecans
- Maraschino cherries
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Combine pudding mix and pineapple: In a large bowl, mix the pistachio pudding mix with the crushed pineapple (including juice) until the pudding mix completely dissolves and the pineapple mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add pecans and marshmallows: Stir the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows into the pudding and pineapple mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- Transfer and garnish: Spoon the salad into a serving bowl or glass dish. Garnish the top with additional chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut if using. Refrigerate until ready to serve, preferably for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best texture, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Shredded coconut is optional but adds a nice flavor and texture contrast.
- You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Watergate Salad, pistachio pudding salad, pineapple dessert, easy no-bake dessert, marshmallow salad, American dessert
