Go Back
Delicious Watergate salad made with pistachio pudding, pineapple, and marshmallows.

Watergate Salad

A retro no-bake dessert that combines creamy pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows for a delightful and easy treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 box Pistachio instant pudding mix (small box) Instant matters.
  • 1 can Crushed pineapple (undrained) Juice helps set the pudding.
  • 2 cups Mini marshmallows
  • 1 container Whipped topping (like Cool Whip, thawed) Must be thawed, not melted.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts Optional for added crunch.
  • Maraschino cherries for topping Maraschino cherries for topping Optional, for presentation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, stir the dry pistachio pudding mix with the undrained crushed pineapple.
  2. Let it sit for about 2 minutes to thicken.
  3. Stir in the mini marshmallows and nuts if using.
  4. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain.
  5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour, ideally 2 to 4 hours for best texture.
  6. Spoon into a serving bowl and top with cherries or additional nuts if desired.

Notes

Make ahead by mixing the night before, but add nuts right before serving for crunch. Chilling is essential for the classic thick texture. For variations, consider swapping nuts or adding fruit like shredded coconut or drained mandarin oranges right before serving.