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Easy Pistachio Fluff Watergate Salad

A light, creamy, and sweet salad combining pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and nuts for a perfect festive dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 20 ounce can crushed pineapple in juice, do not drain
  • 1 3.4 ounce box pistachio flavor instant pudding mix
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans can be swapped with other nuts if desired
  • 1 8 ounces thawed Cool Whip whipped topping
  • optional green food coloring for a deeper green color

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Reserve 1/2 cup of pineapple juice from the crushed pineapple can.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple in its remaining juice with the pudding mix. Mix until well combined and all of the pudding has dissolved.
  3. Stir in the marshmallows and chopped pecans.
  4. Fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the salad light.
  5. If it needs more liquid, add the reserved juice a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Add a couple drops of green food coloring if desired for a darker green.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but it's best to chill overnight (6-8 hours).
Serving
  1. Serve the salad cold from the fridge in a wide bowl or small individual cups.
  2. Top with a spoonful of Cool Whip and a maraschino cherry for color.
  3. For extra flavor, serve with cold coffee drinks, tea, or light milk.

Notes

This salad can be altered by adding other fruits, nuts, or coconut. It’s a fun dish for potlucks and festive occasions.