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Watergate Salad, also known as Pistachio Fluff, is a nostalgic easy no-bake dessert made with pistachio Jell-O, Cool Whip, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows and chopped pecans. This beloved classic comes together in just 5 minutes and has been a favorite at potlucks and holiday tables for generations.
Whether you call it classic Watergate Salad or easy Pistachio Fluff dessert, it does not matter. What you need to know is that this classic recipe with an interesting origin is delicious and made very simply with marshmallows, Cool Whip, Pistachio Jell-O, crushed pineapple and chopped pecans. This recipe has been served on dinner tables and at picnics across the country for decades! It defines nostalgic!
What is Watergate salad?
Watergate salad is a classic American dessert in United States that’s been around since at least the 1970s. You might have also heard it referred to as “Green Goddess”, Pistachio Delight, or Shut The Gate Salad. There are even other varieties of Watergate salad, such as Hawaiian Watergate salad and Strawberry Watergate salad. They are all easy to make, and crowd pleasers. Rumor has it that this dessert got its name after being made and served at the Watergate hotel and it eventually gained popularity during the “Watergate Scandal.”
why you’ll love this easy pistachio fluff dessert
- It’s the definition of easy to make – just a few ingredients mixed together – no baking required!
- Potluck favorite – bring this to the church potluck, the neighborhood picnic, or serve at holidays and introduce the younger generations to “salads” that aren’t really salads. ;)
- Make ahead – Watergate salad tastes even better after it has had time to chill in the fridge which makes it a great make ahead option!
ingredients for Watergate salad
Here are a few ingredient notes for making this classic no-bake jello salad:
- Mix the pudding with the Cool Whip first to create an extra creamy and smooth texture.
- No need to drain the crushed pineapple — all of the juice adds flavor!
- For a richer flavor, try using freshly whipped cream in place of Cool Whip—though Cool Whip is a great time-saver and still works perfectly!
Variations:
- Try adding mandarin oranges, strawberries, or sliced bananas
- Use different pudding flavors: try vanilla or banana pudding
- Crunch: in place of pecans, try walnuts or granola, or even top with toasted coconut!
- To lighten it up: use sugar free Jell-O pudding, and light whipped topping
How to serve Watergate salad
We love any recipe that can be made quickly without too much labor-intensive time in the kitchen. This one is quick, easy and delicious. It is so simple that you can have it whipped up in under 5 minutes then just pop it in the fridge to chill. Here are some serving ideas:
- Holidays: it’s a staple at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The green color also makes it a fun option for St. Patrick’s Day!
- Summer BBQ: Cool, creamy, refreshing
- Potlucks or Family Reunions: This is a recipe your grandma grew up enjoying – it’ll be a hit with all ages!
- Weeknight Treats: especially on a hot summer day. No baking!
Trying serving it as a dessert OR a sweet side dish — I’ve seen this a time or two alongside ham or turkey during the holidays, at brunch or luncheons, or even at baby showers.
Watergate salad is the perfect addition to summer picnics and parties! Enjoy!
Watergate Salad (Pistachio Fluff)
Ingredients
- 1 3.4 ounce box pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix
- 12 ounces Cool Whip thawed
- 1 20 ounce can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1½ cups miniature marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire 12 ounces of thawed Cool Whip with the 3.4-ounce box of pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix. Stir thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Add the entire 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple, including the juice, to the bowl. Stir well to combine.
- Fold in 1½ cups of miniature marshmallows and ½ cup of chopped pecans evenly throughout the mixture.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the salad is chilled and ready to serve.
Notes
Easy Watergate salad FAQ
Absolutely! In fact, Watergate salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
Watergate salad is made with pistachio pudding mix, crushed pineapple with juice, whipped topping (Cool Whip), mini marshmallows and chopped nuts – pecans or walnuts.
Yes, Freshly whipped cream is a delicious option! Use stabilized whipped cream if you will be making it ahead of time.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving.
More No-Bake Desserts
Here are some of our favorite no-bake desserts:
