Prep Time:
Yield:
Category:
Method:
Cuisine:Description
Watergate Salad is an easy pistachio dessert salad made with only 5 simple ingredients: pudding mix, crushed pineapple, Cool Whip, marshmallows, and nuts. This creamy no-bake recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Garnish
- Maraschino cherries
- Additional chopped pecans and mini marshmallows
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the undrained crushed pineapple and dry pistachio pudding mix until well combined.
- Add the thawed Cool Whip and gently fold until the mixture is light, creamy, and evenly combined.
- Stir in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, or until chilled.
- Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries, additional chopped pecans, and mini marshmallows, if desired.
Notes
Do not drain the crushed pineapple. The juice helps dissolve the pudding mix and creates the creamy base.
Use the dry pudding mix straight from the box. Do not prepare the pudding first.
Make sure the Cool Whip is thawed before folding it into the salad.
For the best flavor and texture, chill the salad before serving.
If making this Watergate Salad a day ahead, you can reserve some chopped pecans for garnish so they stay crunchy.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marshmallows will soften as the salad sits.