Watergate Salad Recipe

My Watergate Salad Recipe is a classic dessert that I make for family gatherings and potlucks.  If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert, look no further than this Watergate salad. 

This retro recipe, also known as pistachio salad, pistachio fluff, or pistachio Jello salad, has been a favorite in my family for decades.  With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it is sure to be a hit with everyone.  My salad recipe is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering. 

Just make sure you let your guests know that it contains pineapple and nuts.  Both are a common allergens and the last thing that you want is someone to get sick from eating your delicious salad.  A family member of mine is allergic to pineapple and I always let her know that she should not eat this. 

With its blend of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors, it is sure to become a dessert recipe that you can add to your family cookbook.  Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table at your next event!   

What is Watergate Salad?

Watergate salad is a classic, retro dessert that has been a favorite at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations since the 1970’s. 

Also known by names like Pistachio Delight, Green Fluff, or Pistachio Ambrosia, this salad is a sweet, creamy, and slightly nutty concoction that is incredibly easy to make and always a hit. 

Can I Make this Pistachio Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, this pistachio salad is a great make-ahead dessert.  Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. 

This will give the flavors even more time to meld together and free up more time for you on the day of the event. 

Watergate Salad Ingredients

• Crushed pineapple
• Cool Whip
• Cottage Cheese
• Instant Pistachio Jello Pudding Mix
• Chopped Walnuts
• Mini Marshmallows

How to Make a Watergate Salad Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Drain – Gather all the ingredients needed to make your dessert salad recipe.  Drain as much of the juice off the pineapple as you can.  Set the juice aside because you will not be using it in this recipe. 

Step 2: Mix the Pineapple and Pudding – In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple with the instant pistachio Jello pudding mix.  Stir well until the pudding mix is completely dissolved and the mixture is well combined.   

3^rd Step: Fold in the Cool Whip – Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.  Be careful not to over mix, as this can cause the Cool Whip to deflate. 

Step 4: Add the Cottage Cheese – Fold in the cottage cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.   The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. 

Step 5: Add the Walnuts – Fold in the crushed walnuts, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.  The walnuts provide a nice crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

6^th Step: Chill, Add Mini Marshmallows & Serve – Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.  This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to set.  Before serving the salad, fold in the mini marshmallows. To serve garnish with the reserved crushed walnuts and some whipped cream.  Make sure to keep cold when serving.