Description
Easy Watergate Salad is a classic American no-bake dessert that combines the sweet and nutty flavors of pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows with a creamy whipped topping. This refreshing, fluffy salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holidays, offering a delightful combination of textures and a vibrant green color that stands out on any dessert table.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained)
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
Garnish (optional)
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra chopped pecans
Instructions
- Mix pudding and pineapple: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and undrained crushed pineapple. Stir until well blended and the pudding powder dissolves completely.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and fully combined, ensuring an even, creamy texture.
- Add marshmallows, pecans, and coconut: Incorporate the mini marshmallows, chopped pecans, and shredded sweetened coconut (if using) by folding them in gently to distribute evenly without deflating the mixture.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to thicken to a fluffy consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the salad with maraschino cherries and extra chopped pecans if desired for added color and crunch.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, chill the salad overnight.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- This recipe is also commonly known as “Pistachio Delight” or “Green Fluff.”
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
