Watergate Salad (Pistachio Fluff)
Creamy, no-bake pistachio fluff made with instant pudding, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, whipped topping, and crunchy pecans. A nostalgic crowd-pleaser that chills to soft, spoonable perfection—ideal for potlucks and holidays.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Rubber Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Airtight Container
Ingredients
- 20 oz crushed pineapple undrained
- 3.4 oz instant pistachio pudding mix 1 box; instant only
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped
- 8 oz whipped topping thawed
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut optional
- maraschino cherries for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together the crushed pineapple (with all juices) and instant pistachio pudding mix until fully blended and slightly thickened.
- Fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans. Add shredded coconut if using and mix to distribute evenly.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy. Avoid overmixing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to set. Garnish with extra pecans and maraschino cherries before serving, if desired.
Notes
Do not drain the pineapple—the juice activates the instant pudding for that classic, creamy fluff texture.
Chilling is key. The marshmallows soften and the flavors meld after several hours; it’s even better the next day.
Variations: add sweetened shredded coconut, swap pecans for chopped pistachios, or fold in a few chopped maraschino cherries for pops of color.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Not suitable for freezing.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 60IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.6mg
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