Watergate Salad Recipe

If you ever wanted a dessert that sounds like a political scandal but tastes like a tropical dream, meet the Watergate Salad Recipe. This green, fluffy mix of pistachio pudding, whipped topping, and mini marshmallows is sweet, creamy, and a little nutty, like your aunt who insists it’s a “salad” just because it’s served in a bowl. No baking. No stress. Just pure 1970s magic that still gets people talking.

What Is Watergate Salad

The Watergate Salad main ingredients are instant pistachio pudding mix, crushed pineapple, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans. The pudding gives it that classic green color, while the pineapple adds juicy sweetness. It’s soft, cool, and creamy, half dessert, half nostalgia trip.

Why Is It Called Watergate Salad

Good question, and one that’s still a mystery. Some say a chef at the Watergate Hotel created it. Others claim it was named after the Watergate scandal because, just like that story, this dish “has layers and nuts.” Whatever the truth, the name stuck, and the salad became a hit at potlucks and picnics everywhere.

Why You’ll Love It

• Ready in less than 10 minutes
• No oven or fancy tools needed
• Sweet, creamy, and full of texture
• Perfect for holidays, picnics, or any excuse to eat whipped topping

Prep Details:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8 servings

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 2g

Ingredients

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Optional: extra whipped topping and cherries for garnish

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula or spoon
• Measuring cups
• Serving bowl or trifle dish
• Refrigerator space for chilling

How To Make Watergate Salad

1. Combine the pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) in a large bowl. Stir until fully blended.
2. Add the whipped topping and fold gently until smooth.
3. Stir in the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts.
4. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
5. Garnish with whipped topping and cherries if you want to show off.
6. Serve cold and enjoy every fluffy, pistachio-filled bite.

Helpful Tips

• Toast the nuts for extra flavor.
• Add coconut flakes for a sweeter twist.
• Chill overnight for the creamiest texture.
• Use real whipped cream for a lighter taste.

The Watergate Salad Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can make something unforgettable. Whether you serve it for nostalgia or just for fun, this quirky green “salad” never fails to make people smile.

Continue to Content

Watergate Salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

This Watergate Salad is creamy, fluffy, and delightfully sweet. Each spoonful melts in your mouth with soft marshmallows, crunchy pecans, and juicy pineapple. Its smooth pistachio flavor and airy texture make it irresistibly tempting and impossible to stop eating.

Print

Ingredients

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Optional: extra whipped topping and cherries for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) in a bowl.
   
2. Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
   
3. Stir in marshmallows and nuts.
   
4. Chill for 1 hour.
   
5. Top with whipped cream and cherries before serving.
   

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 7 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 210Total Fat: 9gCarbohydrates: 30gSugar: 20gProtein: 2g