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A bowl of Watergate Salad in a white bowl with a spoon.

Watergate Salad (Watergate Fluff Salad)

Chef Jenn
Sweet, creamy, and irresistibly fluffy, Watergate Salad is a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with pistachio flavor, crushed pineapple, and fluffy marshmallows, this nostalgic dish is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, or family gatherings.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 218 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3.4 ounces instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 20 ounces canned crushed pineapple in juice undrained
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip thawed
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnut divided
  • 3 each maraschino cherries with stems for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Mix the instant pistachio pudding with the undrained crushed pineapple. Stir until the pudding is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Add the Cool Whip and gently fold it into the pudding mixture until smooth and well combined.
  • Stir in the mini marshmallows and half of the chopped pecans or walnuts, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
  • Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become fluffy.
  • Top with the remaining toasted pecans and place a maraschino cherry in the center for garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Chef Jenn’s Tips

  • Use instant pistachio pudding mix—do not substitute with cook-and-serve pudding.
  • Toast the nuts for extra flavor by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stirring until fragrant.
  • Chilling the salad is important for the best texture and flavor.
  • For variation, try adding shredded coconut or diced maraschino cherries.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 218kcalCarbohydrates: 41gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 205mgPotassium: 149mgFiber: 2gSugar: 33gVitamin A: 89IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 0.4mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.

Keyword Watergate Fluff Salad, Watergate Salad
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