This famous Watergate Salad Recipe is a retro side dish or dessert that features canned fruits, pistachio pudding mix, whipped cream, and crushed pistachios.
author’s note
One Bowl, Zero Leftovers!
Growing up, this salad was a staple at our family gatherings. Utah is famous for its “fluff salads” (hi, orange fluff, ambrosia, berry fluff, and Snickers salad!). My aunt always brought either this or Frog Eye Salad to every potluck or holiday dinner. Honestly, it was unthinkable to have a Thanksgiving or Christmas meal without her famous Watergate Salad on the table.
Now that I’ve grown up and started my own family traditions, this Watergate Salad has carried on. I make it every Thanksgiving, and it’s become my kids’ favorite too!
Watergate Salad Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swap or Tip |
|---|---|
| Crushed pineapple | Don’t drain. Use pineapple packed in juice (not syrup) so the pudding sets right. |
| Pistachio pudding mix | Sugar-free pudding works too, but the salad will be a bit softer. |
| Mandarin oranges | Drain very well to avoid a watery salad. |
| Mini marshmallows | Use colored marshmallows for fun color and a light fruity flavor. |
| Pistachios | Try chopped pecans or walnuts instead. Add just before serving for crunch. |
| Whipped topping | Fresh whipped cream works if stabilized with pudding mix or gelatin. |
How To Make Watergate Salad Recipe
- Mix base: Stir pineapple with pistachio pudding in a large bowl until smooth and thick.
- Fold in fruit and mallows: Add oranges, marshmallows, and chopped pistachios.
- Add fluff: Gently fold in whipped topping until everything is coated and pale green.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate 45 to 60 minutes until set and lightly fluffy.
- Finish: Top with extra pistachios or a sprinkle of coconut and serve cold.
Featured Comment
“Made this for the family and it was a hit!”
– Katie
Variations
Switch Things Up
- For a cherry twist, add 1/4 cup of chopped maraschino cherries.
- Using colored mini marshmallows instead of white ones adds both a fruity flavor and a splash of fun color.
- For more fruitiness, you can add an extra can of drained mandarin oranges, a can of drained fruit cocktail, or slice in a banana just before serving.
- For a lower-calorie version, opt for lite whipped topping.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store this watergate salad recipe in an airtight container for up to 2 to 3 days.
Before serving: Stir gently to refresh the texture. Add fresh toppings if desired.
More Holiday Classics:
Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Salads
Sweet Potato Farro Salad
Side Dishes
Roasted Vegetables
Appetizers
Life-Changing No-Knead Dinner Rolls
