Watergate Salad

User Reviews

4.9

92 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    15 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Additional Time

    6 hrs

  • Total Time

    6 hrs 20 mins

  • Servings

    10 servings

  • Calories

    242 kcal

  • Cuisine

    American

Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad blends crushed pineapple, instant pistachio pudding mix, miniature marshmallows, chopped pecans, and whipped topping into a creamy, sweet salad. The pudding is whisked into pineapple juice to create a light, flavorful base before folding in the fruit, marshmallows, and nuts. Chilling for several hours softens the marshmallows and melds the flavors, making a popular dessert or side dish.

Description

Watergate Salad begins by reserving pineapple juice from a can of crushed pineapple, mixing the instant pistachio pudding powder into the juice to form a smooth base. Then the drained pineapple, miniature marshmallows, chopped pecans, and optional coconut flakes are gently folded into the mixture. Finally, whipped topping is folded in to add airiness and creaminess. Refrigeration for at least 6 hours allows the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to blend thoroughly.

This salad offers a textured contrast between soft pineapple, chewy marshmallows, and crunchy pecans, with the pistachio pudding providing a faint nutty flavor. It’s a popular dish served as a sweet side or dessert, often garnished with extra whipped topping and cherries for visual appeal.

The salad holds well refrigerated for up to 2 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months; thaw and stir before serving.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 20 ounces pineapple in juices, 1 can, crushed
  • 3.4 ounces instant pistachio pudding mix 1 box
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1 cup pecans chopped
  • 8 ounces whipped topping such as Cool Whip

Optional

  • ½ cup coconut flakes
  • maraschino cherries for serving

Instructions

  1. Drain the juices from the crushed pineapple into a large bowl, reserving the pineapple in the can. Whisk the pudding mix into the pineapple juice.
  2. Stir in the crushed pineapple, marshmallows, pecans, & coconut if using. Fold in the whipped topping.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours and up to 48 hours before serving.
  4. Garnish with additional whipped topping and a cherry for serving.

Notes

  • Coconut flakes are optional, but they add texture and flavor to the salad.
  • Prepare ahead and refrigerate at least 6 hours to allow marshmallows to soften and flavors to meld.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; mix well before serving again.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container; thaw and stir before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 242 (12%) Carbohydrates 32g (11%) Protein 2g (4%) Fat 12g (18%) Saturated Fat 4g (20%) Sodium 173mg (7%) Potassium 153mg (3%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 29g (58%) Vitamin A 50IU (1%) Vitamin C 5.4mg (6%) Calcium 34mg (3%) Iron 0.5mg (3%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 10servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 242 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 242 12%
Carbohydrates 32g 11%
Protein 2g 4%
Fat 12g 18%
Saturated Fat 4g 20%
Sodium 173mg 7%
Potassium 153mg 3%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 29g 58%
Vitamin A 50IU 1%
Vitamin C 5.4mg 6%
Calcium 34mg 3%
Iron 0.5mg 3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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User Reviews

Overall Rating

4.9

92 reviews
Excellent

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