What is Watergate Salad?

Watergate Salad is a classic American dessert salad made with pistachio pudding mix, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, whipped topping, and often pecans. It's known for its distinctive green color and fluffy texture.

Can I make Watergate Salad ahead of time?

Yes, Watergate Salad is an excellent make-ahead dessert! It actually benefits from chilling for at least 2-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

What are some variations for Watergate Salad?

While the classic is beloved, you can customize your Watergate Salad! Try adding other fruits like mandarin oranges or maraschino cherries. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or even omit nuts for an allergy-friendly version. Some people add cottage cheese for a tangier, more savory twist.

Why is it called Watergate Salad?

The exact origin of the name 'Watergate Salad' is a bit murky, but the most popular theory links it to the Watergate Hotel. It's said to have been a popular recipe served at the hotel's restaurant or a name coined by General Foods (the makers of Jell-O pistachio pudding) in connection with the scandal, though this is debated. Regardless, the name stuck!

Easy Watergate Salad: Your Go-To No-Bake Dessert!

Name: Easy Watergate Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3.4 ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix; 20 ounce can crushed pineapple, not drained; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 12 ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip); 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Description

A delightful, no-bake dessert salad featuring pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping.

Ingredients

Scale

3.4 ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix
20 ounce can crushed pineapple, not drained
2 cups mini marshmallows
12 ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant pistachio pudding mix and the undrained crushed pineapple. Stir well until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and combined with the pineapple liquid. The mixture will be thick and green.
Step 2: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and the thawed whipped topping. Continue to fold until all ingredients are well incorporated and the salad has a light, fluffy consistency.
Step 3: If desired, stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften. This chilling time is essential for the best texture and taste.
Step 5: Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy your easy Watergate Salad!

Notes

For an extra burst of fruit, add a drained 11-ounce can of mandarin oranges or 1/2 cup of halved maraschino cherries along with the marshmallows.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake, Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8th of recipe
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg