Watergate Salad Pistachio Pineapple (Printable)

Creamy blend of pistachio pudding, pineapple, marshmallows, pecans, and whipped topping chilled to perfection.

# What Goes In:

→ Base

01 - 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
02 - 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
03 - 1 cup miniature marshmallows (approx. 120 g)
04 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans (approx. 60 g)
05 - 1 1/2 cups thawed whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip, approx. 360 ml)

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - Additional chopped pecans
07 - Maraschino cherries

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, stir together the instant pistachio pudding mix and entire undrained can of crushed pineapple until the pudding powder is fully dissolved and mixture is smooth.
02 - Fold in the miniature marshmallows and chopped pecans gently until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
03 - Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is uniform and light green in color.
04 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm.
05 - Before serving, garnish with additional chopped pecans and maraschino cherries as desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in ten minutes with absolutely no baking required.
  • The combination of textures—creamy, crunchy, pillowy, and fruity—keeps every spoonful interesting.
  • It's the kind of dish that feels indulgent but leaves you satisfied, not overly full.
02 -
  • Never skip the juice from the pineapple can—it's what keeps this salad from turning dry after a few hours in the fridge.
  • Thaw your whipped topping before folding it in; frozen pieces won't blend smoothly and you'll end up with an uneven texture.
03 -
  • For extra visual appeal, reserve some pecans and cherries to garnish just before serving rather than mixing everything in; it gives guests the impression you put extra care into presentation.
  • If you're doubling the recipe, use a slightly larger bowl than you'd think you need—whipped topping takes up surprising volume when folded in.
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