Description
Watergate Salad is a classic, creamy dessert salad that combines pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, fluffy Cool Whip, mini marshmallows, and crunchy walnuts. This easy no-cook recipe is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations, offering a sweet, fruity, and nutty treat that requires minimal preparation and refrigeration time.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant pistachio pudding mix (dry powder, not prepared)
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple (with the juice)
- 1 (8 ounce) tub Cool Whip, thawed
Add-ins
- 1 (10 ounce) bag mini marshmallows (divided, about 2 cups + remaining for garnish)
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts, divided (½ cup for mixing, remaining for garnish)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juice and the dry instant pistachio pudding mix. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the pudding powder completely and ensure a smooth, well-blended mixture.
- Make it fluffy: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding and pineapple mixture. Stir carefully to blend all ingredients evenly, creating a creamy and fluffy texture without deflating the Cool Whip.
- Add texture and crunch: Fold in about 2 cups of mini marshmallows and ½ cup of chopped walnuts to the salad. Mix gently to evenly distribute the marshmallows and nuts throughout the creamy mixture.
- Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the salad firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the remaining mini marshmallows and chopped walnuts evenly over the top. Garnish with maraschino cherries as desired. Serve the Watergate Salad chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans for a different nutty flavor if preferred.
- For an extra tropical touch, add a handful of shredded coconut when mixing in the marshmallows and nuts.
- If you prefer, use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to deepen the flavors.
- Ensure the Cool Whip is fully thawed for easier mixing and a lighter texture.
