Description
This Pistachio Fluff Salad—also known as Watergate Salad—is a creamy, dreamy vintage dessert salad made with pistachio pudding, whipped topping, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and crunchy chopped nuts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Extra whipped topping + cherries for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, combine pistachio pudding mix and crushed pineapple with juice.
- Stir until the pudding fully dissolves and the mixture thickens.
2. Add the Fluff
- Fold in whipped topping until creamy and smooth.
- Add mini marshmallows and chopped nuts (and coconut if using).
- Mix gently to combine.
3. Chill
- Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- The marshmallows will soften, and the salad will fluff up.
4. Serve
- Spoon into bowls and top with extra whipped topping, nuts, coconut, or a cherry if desired.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Add 1 cup mandarin oranges for a fruitier variation.
- Can be made a day ahead—improves as it chills.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg