Salads
Southern
Yield: 8-10
Author: Tammy Nichols
Watergate Salad - Master Cookbook Recipe # 577

Watergate Salad - Master Cookbook Recipe # 577

Watergate Salad, also known as "Pistachio Salad," is a classic Southern dessert salad that is light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. The combination of pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows creates a nostalgic treat that’s a staple at holidays and family gatherings. Adding a touch of sour cream gives it a lovely tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

This is recipe #577 in Tammy’s Master Cookbook.

Prep time: 15 minTotal time: 15 min
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Ingredients

  • 3.4 oz. pkg pistachio instant pudding mix
  • 20 oz. can crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 8 oz. whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
  • 10 oz. bag mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasting recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 10 maraschino cherries, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Toast the Pecans: Pre-heat your oven to 350°F. Place whole pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes. Allow them to cool before chopping.
  2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry pistachio pudding mix, the entire can of crushed pineapple (do not drain), salt, and sour cream. Stir until the pudding mix is completely dissolved and the mixture is well-blended.
  3. Fold in Texture: Add half the bag of mini marshmallows, the chopped toasted pecans, and the chopped maraschino cherries.
  4. Add the Fluff: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the salad is uniform in color and texture.
  5. Chill: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. For the best results, cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to meld.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top with the remaining marshmallows, extra chopped pecans, and a few whole cherries for a beautiful finish.

Notes

Tammy's Tips

Toasting your pecans is a small step that makes a huge difference,it brings out a deep, nutty flavor that really elevates the salad! While the sour cream is optional, I highly recommend it because it adds a creamy richness that makes this recipe stand out from the rest. This is a great make-ahead dish because it actually tastes better the next day! Keep those leftovers refrigerated.