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Watergate Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 32 reviews

Watergate Salad is a classic, sweet, and fluffy dessert salad made with instant pistachio pudding, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, and Cool Whip, garnished with cherries and chopped pistachios. It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 3.4 ounces instant Pistachio pudding mix
  • 20 ounces canned pineapple chunks with juice
  • 1/4 cup Maraschino cherries, drained
  • 2 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 4 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
  • Maraschino cherries, for garnish
  • Chopped pistachios, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Combine pudding and pineapple: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pistachio pudding mix and canned pineapple chunks along with the juice until fully combined and smooth.
  2. Add mix-ins: Gently stir in the drained maraschino cherries, chopped walnuts, and mini marshmallows to the pudding and pineapple mixture.
  3. Fold in Cool Whip: Carefully fold in the thawed Cool Whip to maintain the fluffy texture and blend all ingredients evenly.
  4. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to set properly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, top the salad with extra maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a decorative and flavorful finish.

Notes

  • Use thawed Cool Whip for the best texture; avoid adding frozen topping directly.
  • For added texture, you can toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
  • This salad can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated, which enhances the flavor.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts and substitute with sunflower seeds if desired.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American