Description
This Watergate Salad is a classic and refreshing dessert salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light and sweet treat. It features a creamy pistachio pudding base with chunks of pineapple, marshmallows, and coconut for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 1/2 cups non-fat Cool Whip (or full-fat, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- Maraschino cherries and chopped pistachios or pecans (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Pudding and Pineapple: In a large bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in Remaining Ingredients: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, flaked coconut, and miniature marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Chill and Serve: Optionally garnish with maraschino cherries and chopped nuts. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set slightly.
Notes
- Kraft Version: To make a version closer to Kraft’s recipe, omit the coconut and add ½ cup chopped pecans.
- Whipped Topping: Use full-fat Cool Whip or substitute with homemade stabilized whipped cream. Regular whipped cream will deflate over time and is not recommended.
- Variations:
- Add other fruits, such as chopped oranges or grapes.
- Use a different flavor of pudding mix, such as vanilla or banana.
- Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 180kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
