I realize we play fast and loose with the term “salad” here in the Midwest sometimes, but this IS a classic and I stand by it! Watergate salad is a cold, dessert-type salad made with marshmallows and Cool Whip. To me, it’s a staple of any backyard BBQ or holiday dinner. I have very vivid memories of this green, creamy salad on plates beside things like Thanksgiving turkey or BBQ chicken. Don’t knock it until you try it!

Some call this Watergate salad recipe by other names like Pistachio Dessert Salad or even Pistachio fluff. The name Watergate salad comes from the fact that this side dish has similar ingredients and flavor to Watergate cake. And both recipes were created around the time of, you guessed it, the Watergate scandal.

Related: Next up, try the classic Ambrosia salad for another sweet side dish.

Ingredients

• Pistachio pudding mix
• Crushed pineapple with juice
• Mini marshmallows
• Walnuts – or you can use other nuts
• Cool Whip – or you can use fresh whipped cream

I like to serve this with a few maraschino cherries on top but it’s optional.

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, add all the ingredients.

Gently fold everything together, the goal being to mix well but not necessarily completely deflate the Cool Whip. The mixture will become green from the pudding mix.

Serve chilled. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two.

Tips for Making

• Watergate salad is best the day it’s made. And leftovers can become soggy even if stored well after a day or two.
• I usually use regular (vanilla?) mini marshmallows for this recipe, but if you want to add more fruity flavors you can use fruity mini marshmallows, similar to Ambrosia salad.
• I will sometimes reserve 1/4 cup or so of the Cool Whip to add to the top of this salad for a pretty presentation, but it’s not necessary.

More Chilled Salad Recipes