Watergate Salad Pistachio Pineapple (Printable)

Creamy pistachio pudding blends with pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans for a cool, fluffy delight.

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
02 - 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
03 - 1 cup miniature marshmallows
04 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans
05 - 1 1/2 cups thawed whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - Additional chopped pecans
07 - Maraschino cherries

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, stir together the instant pistachio pudding mix and the entire can of undrained crushed pineapple until the pudding powder is fully dissolved and mixture is smooth.
02 - Fold in the miniature marshmallows and chopped pecans gently until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
03 - Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the mixture until it is fully combined and the color is uniform light green.
04 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
05 - Just before serving, garnish with additional chopped pecans and maraschino cherries as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in ten minutes with no baking, no stovetop, and barely any cleanup.
  • The contrast of creamy pudding, juicy pineapple, pillowy marshmallows, and crunchy pecans hits every texture you crave.
  • It tastes like nostalgia but feels light enough to serve after a heavy meal.
02 -
  • Do not drain the pineapple, the juice is what activates the pudding powder and gives the salad its creamy texture.
  • If you fold the whipped topping too hard, it will deflate and the salad will feel heavy instead of cloud-like.
  • Letting it chill for at least an hour is not optional, the flavors need time to marry and the marshmallows need time to soften.
03 -
  • Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for three minutes before adding them, it brings out a deeper, almost caramelized flavor.
  • If your whipped topping is still icy, let it sit at room temperature for ten minutes so it folds in without clumping.
  • Use a rubber spatula instead of a spoon when folding, it's gentler and keeps the mixture airy.
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