If you’ve never tasted Watergate Salad, you’re truly in for a retro treat! This dreamy, creamy concoction brings together pistachio pudding, juicy pineapple, fluffy whipped topping, crunchy nuts, and mini marshmallows, all in one irresistible bowl. It’s a playful blend of flavors and textures with a nostalgic charm — perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet pick-me-up. There’s a reason Watergate Salad has stayed a favorite for generations: it’s effortless, unique, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Main Ingredients
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (thawed)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Watergate Salad
Step 1: Mix the Pistachio Pudding and Pineapple
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combining the instant pistachio pudding mix with the entire can of crushed pineapple, juice and all. Stir thoroughly until the pudding mix is completely dissolved and the mixture starts to thicken up. This step infuses every bite with that iconic pistachio flavor and a refreshing hint of pineapple!
Step 2: Add Mini Marshmallows and Nuts
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped walnuts or pecans. The marshmallows will puff up and soften as they chill, while the nuts add just the right amount of crunch to balance out the creamy base.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Spoon in the thawed whipped topping and fold everything together until it’s evenly mixed and beautifully fluffy. Take your time — a gentle touch keeps the salad light and airy, just the way Watergate Salad should be.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This gives all the flavors a chance to mingle and the salad to firm up to that perfect scoopable texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, top your Watergate Salad with a few bright maraschino cherries for a festive touch. If you want to go the extra mile, a sprinkle of extra nuts or a bit of shredded coconut never hurts!
How to Serve Watergate Salad
Garnishes
Maraschino cherries are the classic crowning touch for Watergate Salad, offering a burst of color and a sweet bite right on top. For even more visual appeal, try a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or a flurry of shredded coconut. You can even add a few extra mini marshmallows for a whimsical look.
Side Dishes
Watergate Salad shines as a side alongside a holiday ham, turkey, or roast chicken, but it’s also right at home next to other picnic favorites like baked beans, potato salad, or deviled eggs. It’s sweet enough to double as a dessert, so don’t be surprised if it disappears before the main course!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or potlucks, spoon Watergate Salad into individual cups or parfait glasses for an easy, mess-free presentation. You can also layer it in a trifle bowl with extra fruit or crushed cookies for a show-stopping centerpiece. For a playful twist, try serving it in hollowed-out pineapple halves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Watergate Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, and the marshmallows get even softer — it’s just as delicious the next day!
Freezing
While you technically can freeze Watergate Salad, the texture can suffer a bit, especially when it comes to the whipped topping and marshmallows. If you do freeze it, scoop into individual portions first and thaw in the fridge before serving. Just know it’s at its best fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
Watergate Salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If it’s been in the fridge for a while, give it a quick stir to fluff it back up and redistribute any settled juices before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to include some juice for moisture and to help dissolve the pudding mix. Just note that fresh pineapple can sometimes prevent gelatin from setting, but for this salad, it works just fine with a little extra stirring.
Is there a dairy-free version of Watergate Salad?
Absolutely! Look for a non-dairy whipped topping and make sure to check that your instant pudding mix is dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are already free from dairy, making it easy to adapt.
Can I make Watergate Salad in advance?
Yes, in fact, Watergate Salad tastes even better when made a few hours (or a day) ahead. The flavors meld together beautifully and it sets up nicely in the fridge — just wait to add garnishes until right before serving.
What other mix-ins can I add?
Try tossing in some shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or even a handful of chopped fresh fruit like strawberries or grapes. Watergate Salad is endlessly customizable, so feel free to make it your own.
Why is it called Watergate Salad?
This whimsical name dates back to the 1970s, around the time of the famous Watergate scandal. While the exact origins are a bit murky, the salad quickly became a sensation at potlucks and family tables — and the quirky name only added to its charm!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert or side dish that’s quick, quirky, and utterly delicious, give Watergate Salad a try. It has a way of winning over everyone at the table (and disappearing fast!). Whip up a bowl and enjoy a spoonful of nostalgia — you might just start a new family tradition.
Print
Watergate Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Watergate Salad is a classic American no-cook dessert salad that’s creamy, sweet, and packed with a delightful combination of pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and nuts. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (thawed)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine pudding and pineapple: In a large mixing bowl, mix the instant pistachio pudding mix with the crushed pineapple including its juice. Stir thoroughly until the pudding mix is completely dissolved and the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add marshmallows and nuts: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and the chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and flavor to the salad.
- Fold in whipped topping: Carefully fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, keeping it light and fluffy.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set properly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, if desired, garnish the salad with maraschino cherries for a decorative and tasty finish.
Notes
- For extra texture, you can add shredded coconut or chopped fresh pineapple.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
