Name: Watergate Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boxes pistachio pudding mix (3.4 oz each); 1 large can crushed pineapple (about 20 ounces), drained; 12 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed; ½ cup chopped pecans; 1½ cups white mini marshmallows; 1 cup shredded coconut (optional); Chopped pecans; Maraschino cherries

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Introduction

Watergate Salad is a delightfully sweet and creamy dessert that combines fruity pineapple, nutty pecans, and fluffy marshmallows. Its light texture and refreshing flavor make it a favorite at gatherings and potlucks.

A bowl filled with a thick, light green fluffy mixture that looks creamy and soft, topped with small pieces of chopped nuts scattered evenly across the surface. Three bright red cherries with long stems sit on top in the center, adding a pop of color. The bowl is white and placed on a white marbled surface with a hint of a striped cloth visible at the bottom edge of the image. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with more bright red cherries, slightly out of focus, adding depth to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boxes pistachio pudding mix
1 large can crushed pineapple

12 ounces whipped topping
½ cup chopped pecans

1½ cups white mini marshmallows
Chopped pecans and maraschino cherries for garnish

1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix, stirring until the pudding mix has completely dissolved and the mixture thickens.
Step 2: Stir in the chopped pecans, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut if using. Then gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Garnish the top with additional chopped pecans and maraschino cherries before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, try adding crushed walnuts instead of pecans or a handful of chopped pineapple chunks.
If you prefer a lighter dessert, use a reduced-fat whipped topping or substitute with Greek yogurt.

Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Storage

Store Watergate Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if it separates slightly. It is best enjoyed cold and should be eaten within a few days for optimal freshness.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a fluffy, light green creamy mixture, with small bits of nuts mixed inside, topped with crushed walnuts scattered on top and three bright red maraschino cherries with stems standing upright in the center. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a black and white striped cloth partially visible in front. In the blurred background, there is another white bowl holding more red cherries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Watergate Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to blend. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Is it possible to use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Fresh pineapple can be used, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture which may thin the salad.