Watergate Salad Recipe
Introduction
Watergate Salad is a delightfully light and creamy dessert with a unique pistachio flavor. This easy-to-make salad combines toasted walnuts, pineapple, and marshmallows for a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup walnut halves and pieces
- 3.4 ounces pistachio-flavored instant pudding mix (1 box)
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (1 can)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 8 ounces whipped topping (thawed, plus more for garnish if desired, 1 tub)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them for 7-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool, then coarsely chop.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix, crushed pineapple with its juice, miniature marshmallows, 8 ounces of whipped topping, and ½ cup of the toasted walnuts. Stir gently until well mixed.
- Step 3: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Step 4: Before serving, top individual portions with dollops of whipped topping (if desired), sprinkle the remaining walnuts on top, and garnish with maraschino cherries.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, try folding in some shredded coconut or chopped pecans.
- Use fresh pineapple tidbits instead of canned for a fresher flavor.
- Swap pistachio pudding with vanilla pudding and add green food coloring for the classic look without the pistachio flavor.
Storage
Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best served chilled and may thicken after refrigerating; simply stir gently before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture will suffer.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Watergate Salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the salad a few hours or even a day in advance helps the flavors develop and the pudding set, making it tastier and easier to serve.
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can substitute whipped cream or even Greek yogurt for a lighter or tangier version, though the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.
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Watergate Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Watergate Salad is a light, fluffy, and sweet dessert salad featuring a delightful combination of pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, toasted walnuts, and whipped topping. This easy no-cook recipe is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple treat, offering a nostalgic flavor that delights all ages.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3/4 cup walnut halves and pieces
- 3.4 ounces pistachio-flavored instant pudding mix (1 box)
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (1 can, with juice)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed (1 tub)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnut halves and pieces evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, coarsely chop the walnuts for mixing.
- Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio instant pudding mix, crushed pineapple along with its juice, miniature marshmallows, 8 ounces of the thawed whipped topping, and half of the toasted walnuts. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Cover and refrigerate the mixture until you are ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, portion the salad into serving bowls or a large serving dish. Dollop additional whipped topping over the salad if desired. Sprinkle the remaining toasted walnuts on top and garnish with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
Notes
- Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whipped topping with a coconut-based whipped cream.
- Make sure to refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to let it thicken and set properly.
- Maraschino cherries add a classic garnish, but you can omit them if preferred.
- This salad is best served chilled and is ideal for potlucks and picnics.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Watergate Salad, Pistachio Pudding Salad, No Bake Dessert, Easy Salad, Thanksgiving Salad, Holiday Dessert
