Watergate Salad (5 ingredients + 5 minutes prep time!)
User Reviews
5
Watergate Salad (5 ingredients + 5 minutes prep time!)
Description
The Watergate Salad combines dry instant pistachio pudding mix with crushed pineapple including its juice, chopped or whole pecans, and mini marshmallows in a large bowl. These ingredients are stirred together to distribute flavors evenly. Folded in last is thawed Cool Whip, which lightens the mixture and adds a creamy, fluffy texture. The salad is then refrigerated for several hours or overnight to set and chill thoroughly.
This no-cook dessert balances sweetness from the pineapple and marshmallows with the nutty crunch of pecans and the mellow pistachio flavor of the pudding mix. The Cool Whip adds volume and softness, making the salad airy yet substantial. Optionally, maraschino cherries can be added on top for decoration and an additional touch of sweetness.
This salad can be served as a side dish or light dessert and is often prepared ahead due to its chilling time. It is simple to assemble, making it convenient for gatherings. The use of only five main ingredients and short prep time makes it accessible to cooks of all levels.
Ensure Cool Whip is properly thawed in the refrigerator to maintain the texture and prevent runniness. Colorful marshmallows can be used for variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Ingredients
- 3.75 ounces instant pistachio pudding mix dry
- 8 ounces pineapple with juice, crushed
- 1/4 cup pecans halves or chopped
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 1/2 cups Cool Whip thawed
- maraschino cherries optional, for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl combine the instant pudding mix, crushed pineapple, pecans and marshmallows. Stir well. Fold in Cool Whip until well blended.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator several hours or overnight.
- To serve, top with Maraschino cherries and extra chopped pecans.
Notes
- Thaw Cool Whip in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours or overnight to preserve texture and avoid runniness.
- Colorful marshmallows can be used for added visual interest; brands like Jet Puffed "Fun-Mallows" or Great Value mini fruit marshmallows work well.
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Maraschino cherries can be used as an optional garnish for serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 165 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 165kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 11% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 4mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 219mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 74mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 27g | 54% |
| Vitamin A | 55IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 34mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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