why make this recipe
Watergate Salad is quick, sweet, and easy. It uses a few pantry items. It makes a good side or dessert for potlucks. Kids and adults like its creamy, fruity taste.
introduction
Watergate Salad mixes pistachio pudding, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping. It adds nuts and cherries for crunch and color. You make it in one bowl and chill before serving.
how to make Watergate Salad
Make the salad in a large bowl. Mix the pudding and pineapple first. Fold in marshmallows and whipped topping until smooth. Stir in nuts and cherries. Chill for at least one hour so flavors blend.
Ingredients :
1 package pistachio pudding mix, 1 can crushed pineapple (in juice), 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1 cup whipped topping, 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (optional)
Directions :
In a large bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) and mix well. Fold in the mini marshmallows and whipped topping until evenly combined. Stir in the chopped nuts and maraschino cherries if using. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

how to serve Watergate Salad
Serve cold from the fridge. Spoon into a bowl or small cups. Top with extra chopped nuts or a cherry if you like. It pairs well with grilled meats or on a dessert table.
how to store Watergate Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or move to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. Do not freeze — texture will change.
tips to make Watergate Salad
- Use the pineapple with its juice for more flavor and moisture.
- Fold gently to keep the salad light and fluffy.
- Chop the nuts small so every bite has a bit of crunch.
- Chill at least one hour for best taste.
variation (if any)
- Add a banana sliced just before serving for fresh fruit.
- Use coconut flakes for extra flavor.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or leave out nuts for a nut-free version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant pudding of any brand?
A: Yes. Use any pistachio instant pudding mix.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge.
Q: Is Cool Whip the only whipped topping to use?
A: No. You can use any whipped topping or whipped cream, but texture may change.
Q: Can I reduce sugar?
A: You could use light whipped topping and low-sugar pudding, but taste will differ.
Conclusion
For a classic quick dish, you can follow a trusted recipe like The Best Watergate Salad – Mom On Timeout.
Print
Watergate Salad
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Watergate Salad is a quick, sweet, and creamy dessert that combines pistachio pudding, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping with nuts and cherries.
Ingredients
- 1 package pistachio pudding mix
- 1 can crushed pineapple (in juice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) and mix well.
- Fold in the mini marshmallows and whipped topping until evenly combined.
- Stir in the chopped nuts and maraschino cherries if using.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold from the fridge, spooning into bowls or small cups.
Notes
Cover with plastic wrap or move to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. Do not freeze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Watergate Salad, dessert, easy recipe, potluck, creamy salad