Quick answer: stir one 3.4 oz box of instant pistachio pudding mix into a 20 oz can of crushed pineapple with its juice, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows and ½ cup of chopped pecans, and fold in an 8 oz tub of whipped topping. Chill for at least an hour.
Ingredients (8 servings)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed, or about 3 cups stabilized whipped cream
How to make it
- Stir the dry pudding mix into the pineapple and its juice until dissolved.
- Stir in the marshmallows and nuts.
- Fold in the whipped topping until evenly green.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour. Garnish with cherries or more nuts.
With real whipped cream
Any recipe that calls for an 8 oz tub of whipped topping can use about 3 cups of homemade whipped topping instead (1½ cups of heavy cream, whipped and stabilized). Plain whipped cream is too soft and will weep.
Variations
- Add 1 cup of cottage cheese for a higher-protein, tangier version.
- Add shredded coconut or maraschino cherries.
- Use pistachios in place of pecans.
Storage
Keep covered in the fridge. Stir gently before serving if any liquid collects.
Related: ambrosia salad and strawberry, orange and cherry fluff.
Frequently asked questions
What is Watergate salad?
A green, fluffy dessert salad made from instant pistachio pudding mix, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, pecans and whipped topping. It is also called pistachio fluff or pistachio delight.
Do you drain the pineapple for Watergate salad?
No. The juice dissolves the dry pudding mix and thickens the salad.
Can I make Watergate salad with real whipped cream?
Yes. Use about 3 cups of stabilized whipped cream in place of an 8 oz tub of whipped topping.
How long does Watergate salad last?
About 3 days covered in the fridge with whipped topping, and 1 to 2 days with real whipped cream.
