Watergate salad, also known as pistachio salad, isn't quite a salad in the conventional sense. This delectable delight is more of a whipped dessert containing pistachio pudding, canned pineapple, whipped cream, and marshmallows.
The name itself sparks intrigue. You may wonder, why is it called Watergate salad? It did originate around the time of the Watergate scandal in the early 70’s, but the actual origins of the name are unclear.
In many households, Watergate salad is fondly referred to as Pistachio Delight, thanks to the pistachio pudding in the recipe. So, whenever you come across the term pistachio salad, know that it's synonymous with the Watergate salad.
While popular on many Thanksgiving tables, the Watergate salad recipe is versatile enough to be relished as a wonderful side dish or dessert for various occasions. It's the delectable delight that knows no season.
For more Thanksgiving recipes for our favorite salads, sides, desserts, and more look no further!
How to Make Watergate Salad
Are you wondering how to make Watergate salad, or even what is Watergate salad? Good questions! We have a comprehensive guide to the Watergate Salad Original Recipe. It's straightforward and can even be prepared ahead of time. Find the entire recipe below, but here are the highlights:
Mix the Pineapple, Pudding, and Marshmallows
Juicy canned pineapple, simple instant pudding, and cute mini marshmallows create a flavorful base for this bright, sweet salad.
Stir in the Whipped Topping, then Chill
Gently stirring in, or “folding” in the topping keeps the mixture light and fluffy. Chilling allows flavors to come together and makes this a perfect make-ahead dish for big holiday meals and celebrations.
Add the Nuts
Stirring the nuts in just before serving keeps them crispy, adding extra crunch and texture to this classic Watergate salad recipe.
What to Serve with Watergate Salad
This fluffy, crunchy, bright pineapple and pistachio salad adds decadence and fun to the standard lineup of Thanksgiving sides. Serve with a brined and roasted turkey. Or pair it with a balsamic brown sugar glazed ham. It would even nicely complement a slow cooker prime rib. Find all of our favorite Thanksgiving recipes to go with our Watergate salad – plus when and how to make them – in our 48-hour countdown to Thanksgiving.
Do the Watergate salad main ingredients feel more like dessert to you? That’s fair! Feel free to serve this dish as a sweet treat instead. If you’re looking for more holiday desserts, check out our favorite Thanksgiving dessert recipes.
Pre-Make Your Watergate Salad
Now that you know how to make Watergate salad, you might ask can you make Watergate salad ahead of time? Of course! The flavors will meld, and it will become even more delicious after chilling overnight.
This recipe can be made a couple of days ahead but hold off on adding the pecans or they will get soggy. Place the Watergate salad in an airtight container or leave it in the bowl, covered with plastic wrap. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and add the nuts.
Preparing this pistachio pudding ahead of time just makes it easier on yourself on an already-busy Thanksgiving Day. Plus, by whipping up this tasty Watergate salad a day or two in advance the flavors will be all the better for it!
How To Store Watergate Salad Leftovers
So how long is Watergate salad good for?
How Long does Watergate Salad Last in the Fridge? Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The nuts will absorb moisture over time and will become soggy, so it’s best to consume right away!
Can You Freeze Watergate Salad? Watergate salad is better unfrozen, since the texture of the marshmallows and pecans will change after being in the freezer. However, the mixture can be frozen for up to three months. See our instructions for freezing in Can You Freeze Watergate salad? below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Watergate Salad Original Recipe
- Prep Time 10 min
- Total 1 hr 10 min
- Servings 7
- Ingredients 5
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 box (4-serving size) pistachio instant pudding & pie filling mix (dry)
- 3/4 cup miniature marshmallows
- 2 cups frozen (thawed) whipped topping
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
-
Step1In medium bowl, mix pineapple, pudding mix and marshmallows.
![]()
-
Step2Gently stir in whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
![]()
-
Step3Remove from refrigerator, and uncover. Gently stir in pecans.
![]()
-
Step4Place salad in serving bowl to serve. Cover and refrigerate any remaining salad.
![]()
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: About 2/3 Cup
- Calories
- 220
- Calories from Fat
- 70
- Total Fat
- 7g
- 11%
- Saturated Fat
- 3g
- 16%
- Trans Fat
- 0g
- Cholesterol
- 0mg
- 0%
- Sodium
- 210mg
- 9%
- Potassium
- 130mg
- 4%
- Total Carbohydrate
- 38g
- 13%
- Dietary Fiber
- 1g
- 6%
- Sugars
- 29g
- Protein
- 1g
% Daily Value*:
- Vitamin A
- 0%
- 0%
- Vitamin C
- 15%
- 15%
- Calcium
- 2%
- 2%
- Iron
- 2%
- 2%
