Watergate Salad

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 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy – Takes just 10 minutes of prep time.
  • No baking required – Perfect for warm weather or when you need a fuss-free dessert.
  • Great for gatherings – A nostalgic favorite at parties and potlucks.
  • Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
  • Versatile – Easily customizable with extra toppings or mix-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 package instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip or whipped topping

Directions

  1. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, stir together the pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple (including the juice) until fully combined.
  2. Add Marshmallows and Nuts: Fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans, mixing until evenly distributed.
  3. Incorporate the Whipped Topping: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the mixture until everything is well combined.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Enjoy this cool, creamy dessert chilled!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8 servings
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

  • Add coconut: Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut for extra sweetness and texture.
  • Use different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a slightly different crunch.
  • Make it cherry-flavored: Add ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries for extra color and flavor.
  • Try a different pudding flavor: Substitute pistachio pudding with vanilla or banana pudding for a unique twist.
  • Healthier version: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping to reduce calories.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store Watergate Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it may change the texture.
  • Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so no reheating is needed.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Watergate Salad?

The origins of the name are unclear, but many believe it was named after the Watergate Hotel scandal in the 1970s, or simply after the Watergate Cake, a pistachio-flavored dessert popular at the time.

2. Can I make Watergate Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

3. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Just whip about 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with a little sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it in.

4. Do I need to drain the pineapple?

No, the juice helps dissolve the pudding mix and creates the creamy consistency.

5. What can I serve with Watergate Salad?

It pairs well with BBQ dishes, ham, or as a sweet contrast to salty snacks like pretzels.

6. Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes! Chopped apples, mandarin oranges, or grapes can add extra flavor and texture.

7. Is Watergate Salad a dessert or a side dish?

It can be both! Some serve it as a dessert, while others treat it as a sweet side dish.

8. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunch without nuts.

9. How do I keep the salad from getting too watery?

Make sure you don’t add extra liquid beyond what’s in the canned pineapple, and keep it refrigerated.

10. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to add about ½ cup of pineapple juice to replace the liquid from the can.

Conclusion

Watergate Salad is a nostalgic, easy-to-make dish that brings a touch of sweetness and crunch to any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, summer picnic, or just a simple family dessert, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of retro comfort food!

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Watergate Salad

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 serving
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Watergate Salad is a classic, no-bake dessert perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Made with pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and pecans, all folded together with a light and fluffy whipped topping, this sweet and creamy dish is refreshing and easy to make. Enjoy it as a side dish or dessert!

 

Ingredients

  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • 1 ½ cups Cool Whip or whipped topping

Instructions

  1. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, stir together the pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) until well combined.
  2. Add Marshmallows and Nuts: Fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans.
  3. Incorporate the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is evenly mixed.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Serve: Enjoy chilled!

Notes

  • Add ½ cup shredded coconut for extra sweetness.
  • Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
  • Stir in ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries for extra color.
  • Substitute pistachio pudding with vanilla or banana pudding for a twist.
  • For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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