Watergate Salad 1

Watergate Salad

If you’ve ever been to a Southern potluck, holiday gathering, or church picnic, chances are you’ve seen Watergate Salad gracing the dessert table. This light and fluffy pistachio pudding creation—also known as Pistachio Delight or Green Fluff—is as simple as it is nostalgic.

Watergate Salad 1

It’s a one-bowl wonder packed with pineapple, marshmallows, nuts, and whipped topping. And while the origins are delightfully quirky (a blend of 1970s convenience and culinary curiosity), this salad remains a beloved staple of American comfort desserts.

Why You’ll Love Watergate Salad

  • No-bake, 5-minute prep with just one bowl
  • Make-ahead friendly and gets better as it chills
  • Light, airy texture that’s kid- and crowd-approved
  • A nostalgic, retro favorite that never goes out of style
  • Versatile for holidays, potlucks, or weekday treats

Ingredients

  • 2 boxes instant pistachio flavored pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
  • 1 large can crushed pineapple (20 oz, with juice)
  • 12–16 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • ½ to ¾ cup chopped pecans
  • 1½ cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup flaked sweetened coconut (optional)
  • Maraschino cherries with stems, extra pecans, and whipped topping for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the crushed pineapple (with juice) and both boxes of instant pistachio pudding. The mixture will begin to thicken as you stir.

2. Add the Crunch

Stir in the chopped pecans.

3. Fold in the Fun

Add mini marshmallows and gently stir to combine.

4. Add the Whip

Fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated. If using, stir in the sweetened coconut.

5. Chill & Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
When ready to serve, garnish with whipped topping, cherries, and a sprinkle of pecans if desired.

Storage Tips

  • Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Best served cold after chilling
  • Not freezer-friendly (texture will change)
Watergate Salad 2

Pairing Suggestions

  • Serve with ham or turkey at a holiday meal
  • Perfect alongside BBQ or grilled chicken
  • Add to a retro dessert spread with Ambrosia Salad and Jell-O molds
Print

Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad is proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes bring the most joy. With its pastel green color, creamy texture, and sweet crunch, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Whether you're reviving a retro recipe or trying it for the first time, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours

Ingredients

  • 2 boxes instant pistachio flavored pudding mix 3.4 oz each
  • 1 large can crushed pineapple 20 oz, with juice
  • 12–16 oz whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed
  • ½ to ¾ cup chopped pecans
  • 1½ cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup flaked sweetened coconut optional
  • Maraschino cherries with stems extra pecans, and whipped topping for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Mix the Base:

  • In a large mixing bowl, stir together the crushed pineapple (with juice) and both boxes of instant pistachio pudding. The mixture will begin to thicken as you stir.

Add the Crunch:

  • Stir in the chopped pecans.

Fold in the Fun:

  • Add mini marshmallows and gently stir to combine.

Add the Whip:

  • Fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated. If using, stir in the sweetened coconut.

Chill & Serve:

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  • When ready to serve, garnish with whipped topping, cherries, and a sprinkle of pecans if desired.
Watergate Salad pinterest 1