Description
Watergate Salad is a light, fluffy dessert salad featuring the sweet tang of crushed pineapple, the distinctive flavor of pistachio pudding, miniature marshmallows, and crunchy pecans folded into whipped topping. This easy no-cook dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick mid-week treat, delivering a nostalgic taste of classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can crushed pineapple (20 ounces, undrained)
- 2 packages instant pistachio pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- 16 ounces frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 3/4 cup pecans
Instructions
- Combine pineapple and pudding: In a large bowl, stir together the undrained crushed pineapple and the two packages of instant pistachio pudding mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Fold in whipped topping: Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the thawed frozen whipped topping until the mixture is uniform with no streaks, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Add marshmallows and pecans: Carefully fold in the miniature marshmallows and pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the salad.
- Chill before serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld and the pudding to set before serving.
Notes
- Watergate salad is also known as pistachio fluff, pistachio delight, or "green stuff."
- This salad is well-loved for potlucks and easy dessert options because it requires no baking or cooking.
- For added texture, you can toast the pecans lightly before folding them in.
- Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed for easier folding and a smooth texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 162 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 204 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
