Watergate Salad

6 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: PT0M Total: 20 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Watergate Salad
This retro Watergate Salad combines pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans in a creamy Cool Whip base—it’s sweet, fluffy, and ready in just 20 minutes. A classic potluck favorite that’s been bringing people together for decades.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 (3 oz) box pistachio pudding (instant)
  • 1 (20 oz) can unsweetened crushed pineapple
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 (9 oz) tub Cool Whip

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium glass bowl, mix pistachio pudding and crushed pineapple with juice until well combined.
  2. Add marshmallows, chopped pecans, and Cool Whip. Fold together gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 1-2 hours, and serve cold.

Tips and Techniques

Make this salad at least 2-4 hours ahead or even the night before to let the flavors meld together and the marshmallows soften slightly. The longer it sits in the refrigerator, the better it gets.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Cool Whip: homemade whipped cream (2 cups heavy cream, whipped with 2-3 tablespoons sugar)
  • miniature marshmallows: regular marshmallows cut into quarters
  • pecans: walnuts or slivered almonds

Equipment Needed

  • medium glass bowl
  • mixing spoon or rubber spatula

Historical Context

Watergate Salad got its quirky name during the 1970s Watergate scandal era, though the exact origin story is debated. Also known as Pistachio Delight, this retro dessert salad became a staple at Southern potlucks and church suppers, loved for its bright green color and sweet, creamy texture.