Watergate Salad
Watergate Salad is a retro classic that brings creamy, nutty flavors together in one bowl.
With pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping.
It’s incredibly easy to make and ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a refreshing treat to keep in the fridge. This dessert salad balances sweetness with crunch, and best of all, it requires no cooking!
Watergate Salad Recipe Highlights
- Simple ingredients and easy steps
- 5-Minute Prep Quick and fuss-free assembly
- Perfect for Parties from BBQs to holiday dinners
- No Cooking Required Just mix, chill, and serve
- Versatile Easily adaptable with different nuts or fruit toppings
Ingredient Notes
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
PISTACHIO PUDDING MIX – Adds a signature nutty flavor and creamy base. Pistachio pudding mix is a must for the unique taste and texture.
PINEAPPLE – We use canned crushed pineapple to add a fresh, fruity contrast. Use pineapple in juice (not syrup) to keep the salad’s sweetness balanced.
MARSHMALLOWS – We’ll use mini marshmallows to adds a bit of sweetness and a delicious, chewy texture. You can use colored marshmallows for extra flair.
PECANS – Brings a bit of crunch. Chopped pecans add texture and a mild nutty flavor that works well with pistachio. Walnuts can be a substitute.
WHIPPED TOPPING – Creates that classic fluffiness. We use Cool Whip for ease, but homemade whipped cream can work too.
How To Make A Watergate Salad
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Mix the pudding with the crushed pineapple until smooth.
- Stir in the marshmallows and chopped pecans.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy.
- Chill for 2-4 hours or overnight, then top with maraschino cherries before serving.
Leftovers and Storage
STORE – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture. Give it a quick stir before serving to revive its fluffiness.
FREEZE – While freezing isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture, you can freeze individual servings in airtight containers for up to one month. For best results, defrost in the fridge overnight before serving and give it a gentle stir to blend.
REHEAT – Not applicable, as this is a chilled dish meant to be enjoyed cold.
MAKE AHEAD – This dish is ideal for prepping the night before! Mix all ingredients together, cover tightly, and chill for at least 2 hours or even overnight to let the flavors fully blend and the texture set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
FRESH FRUIT – Add sliced strawberries or orange segments on the side for a refreshing contrast.
CHOPPED NUTS – Sprinkle extra pecans or pistachios on top for extra crunch and presentation.
GRAHAM CRACKERS – Serve with graham crackers on the side or as a crumble topping for extra sweetness and texture.
VANILLA WAFERS – Use vanilla wafers for dipping, making it even more fun to eat.
More Easy and Delicious No-Bake Desserts
Recipe Success Tips
MIX WELL – Stir the pudding mix and crushed pineapple thoroughly to dissolve the pudding powder completely. This prevents any lumps and ensures a smooth, consistent flavor.
FOLD, DON’T STIR – Gently fold in the whipped topping instead of stirring to keep the mixture light and airy. This technique preserves the fluffiness of the salad, giving it the perfect texture.
CHILL – Allowing the salad to chill for at least 2 hours helps the flavors meld, and gives the pudding time to set properly. If you have the time, chill overnight for even better flavor.
MARASCHINO CHERRIES – For a festive look and a hint of cherry flavor, add a few maraschino cherries on top right before serving. It’s a simple way to elevate presentation and add a touch of sweetness.
More Easy and Delicious Desserts
Chocolate Pecan Pie – the classic with a twist
Pumpkin Pie – made with canned pumpkin puree
Watergate Salad
Ingredients
- 1 3.4-ounce box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple in its juices
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup pecans chopped
- 1 8-ounce container whipped topping thawed, I used Cool Whip
Instructions
- Combine the pudding mix and crushed pineapple until well combined.
- Add the marshmallows and chopped pecans to the pudding mixture.
- Fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until well combined.
- Chill for 2-4 hours or overnight. Decorate with maraschino cherries.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Cheerful Cook team members are not trained nutritionists or medical professionals. Calorie information and nutritional values are estimates. If you have nutritional concerns, we recommend using a nutritional calculator.
Maike Corbett is the founder and food blogger of Cheerful Cook, a popular recipe website featuring comfort food recipes from the US and Germany. She has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the AP Wire and MSN.