This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Watergate Salad – a classic dessert salad known by many names, has been a staple on holiday tables and family gatherings for decades. 

This simple, yet delicious salad is often referred to as Pistachio Pineapple Delight, Pistachio Fluff Salad, or even Ambrosia Salad, depending on where you are and who you ask. If you love this tasty recipe, you’ll definitely love my Frog Eye Salad too!

Watergate salad with whipped topping and pistachios.
Want to save this recipe?
Enter your email below and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get great recipe ideas from me every week!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

If you appreciate the magic crowd pleasing retro desserts, you’ll also love my Strawberry Pretzel Salad or Classic Banana Pudding recipes.

The Origins of Watergate Salad

Before we dive into the delightful combination of pistachio and pineapple, let’s address the elephant in the room – the origin of the name “Watergate Salad”. 

Despite its connection to the infamous Watergate scandal of the early 1970s, this creamy dessert salad has no actual ties to the Watergate Hotel or political scandal. 

Instead, it can be traced back to the creative minds at General Foods, who launched a line of pistachio pudding mix, giving birth to this classic dessert salad.

The mix’s vibrant green color adds a unique visual appeal, making it a “green goddess” salad that’s perfect for the holiday dinner table.

Bowl of homemade Pistachio Fluff Dessert.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • No Cool Whip – Traditionally, Watergate Salad recipes call for Cool Whip as the creamy whipped topping. It wouldn’t be a retro dessert without Cool Whip, right? However, my version steers clear of this ingredient, opting for a homemade approach. By using cream cheese and heavy whipping cream, we achieve the same creamy, dreamy consistency, but with a more natural flavor profile. This version offers a creaminess that’s sure to please even the most discerning dessert enthusiasts.
  • Interesting Combination of Flavors – The combination of pistachio and crushed pineapple is what gives this salad its distinct flavor and interesting texture. The creamy whipped topping, made with a blend of cream cheese and heavy whipping cream, is the perfect canvas for the sweet, nutty notes of the pistachio pudding and the tropical tang of pineapple. The crunchy pecans and mini marshmallows provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, airy texture, creating a harmonious balance in every bite.
  • Sweet Salad for Special Occasions – This easy Watergate Salad, with its delightful green color and sweet flavor, has been a favorite thing on holiday tables for generations. Whether you serve it as a side dish at Thanksgiving, a dessert at Christmas, or a fun idea at family gatherings, this classic dessert salad never fails to impress and is always a crowd favorite. Who knew green fluff would be such a fun addition to a holiday meal?
  • A Versatile Dessert – The Watergate Salad is a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes and preferences. Some people like to add maraschino cherries or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist, while others sprinkle chopped walnuts, in addition to the pistachio pieces, on top for an extra layer of crunch. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your unique twist, this creamy dessert salad is always a crowd favorite.
Bowl of homemade Pistachio Fluff Dessert.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients used in this recipe are canned crushed pineapple, instant pistachio pudding mix, mini marshmallows, pistachios, powdered sugar, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream.

ingredients needed to make Watergate salad.

How to Make Watergate Salad

Scroll down for the printable recipe card, but here is a step-by-step summary.

Mix the Green Goop

Mixing crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the crushed pineapple along with any pineapple juice and the pistachio pudding mix.

Mixing crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.

Step 2: Mix until combined.

Adding mini marshmallows and pistachios to crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.

Step 3: Add the marshmallows and the pistachios to the mixture.

Adding mini marshmallows and pistachios to crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.

Step 4: Fold them in and set them aside.

Make the Fluff

Step 5: Beat the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Beat the mixture on high speed until medium peaks form and it holds its shape. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the mixture to a separate bowl.

Whipping heavy cream and softened cream cheese together.

Step 6: Add the softened cream cheese to the mixing bowl and beat until soft and fluffy.

Whipping heavy cream and softened cream cheese together.

Step 7: Use a spatula to scrape it away from the sides of the bowl. Add about 2/3 of the sweetened whipped cream to the cream cheese (the remaining whipped cream will be reserved as topping when serving). Whip the mixture together until light and fluffy.

Mix the Pistachio Pudding Salad

Folding whipped cream into watergate salad mixture.

Step 8: Add the cream mixture to the pistachio mixture.

Folding whipped cream into watergate salad mixture.

Step 9: Fold the cream mixture into the pistachio mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Serve individual portions topped with the reserved whipped cream and chopped pistachios.

Recipe Tip

You can find raw or roasted pistachios without the shell at stores like Trader Joe’s. They make a great garnish and add a fabulous crunch to this recipe!

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! Watergate Salad can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Just remember to cover it with plastic wrap and stir it well before serving.

Can I make this Watergate Salad without pistachio pudding mix?

While pistachio pudding mix is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other flavors or even use vanilla pudding mix if you prefer.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip for the homemade whipped topping if you prefer a quicker and more convenient option. I always prefer heavy cream over Cool Whip though.

Are there any variations to this recipe I should consider?

Yes, you can get creative with add-ins like maraschino cherries, mandarin oranges, or chopped nuts to tailor the flavor to your liking.

What occasions are ideal for serving Watergate Salad?

Watergate Salad is perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, family gatherings, and even potlucks. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Can I make this salad without cream cheese or heavy whipping cream?

While cream cheese and heavy whipping cream contribute to the creamy texture, you can always explore alternative ingredients like sweetened cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a different twist.

Pin this now to save it for later

Pin It

Watergate Salad

Prep15 minutes
Chill time3 hours
Total3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 12
Indulge in this tasty Watergate Salad, a retro dessert made with pineapple and pistachio but without Cool Whip. Perfect for the holidays!

Ingredients 

  • 20 ounces crushed pineapple canned, undrained
  • 6.8 ounces instant pistachio pudding mix each package should be 3.4-ounces
  • 2 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 3/4 cup pistachios raw recommended (but you can use roasted if unsalted)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream chilled
  • additional pistachios for garnish chopped
Want to save this recipe?
Enter your email below and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get great recipe ideas from me every week!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Instructions 

  • In a large bowl, stir together the pineapple and pistachio pudding mixes until combined. 
    Mixing crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.
  • Fold in marshmallows and pistachios. Set aside.
    Adding mini marshmallows and pistachios to crushed pineapple and pistachio pudding mix.
  • Beat the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Beat on high speed until medium peaks form and it holds its shape. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the mixture to a separate bowl.
  • Add the softened cream cheese to the mixing bowl and beat until soft and fluffy.
    Whipping heavy cream and softened cream cheese together.
  • Use the spatula to scrape it away from the sides of the bowl. Add about 2/3 of the sweetened whipped cream to the cream cheese (the remaining whipped cream will be reserved as topping when serving). Whip the mixture together until light and fluffy.
    Whipping heavy cream and softened cream cheese together.
  • Fold the cream mixture into the pistachio mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
    Folding whipped cream into watergate salad mixture.
  • Serve individual portions topped with the reserved whipped cream and chopped pistachios.

Notes

Watergate Salad can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Just remember to cover it with plastic wrap and stir well before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 303kcal, Carbohydrates: 35g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 43mg, Sodium: 276mg, Potassium: 181mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 31g, Vitamin A: 620IU, Vitamin C: 5mg, Calcium: 47mg, Iron: 0.5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you make this? Leave me a comment below

Hi! Iโ€™m Krissy.

I love to create the BEST versions of your favorite recipes. If you love to cook, love to eat, or just have a deep appreciation for good food, you're in the right place! Stick around... I have hundreds of recipes for you to make.

You May Also Like

5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

Leave a comment

Ask a question or leave a comment. I'm happy to help in any way and I love hearing what you think about the recipe. Be sure to leave a rating!

Recipe Rating





This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

1 Comment

  1. 5 stars
    I loved your version of the Watergate Salad recipe!! As a child , my Mother would stir this one up every Thanksgiving and believe me, it was the last item on our kids plates. The shocking green of it all and atop a fresh lettuce bed , as she served it, scared us little ones plenty !!! It wasn’t until pre teen years were up , my brothers and I actually appreciated the beauty of this discreet yet powerful tasting dish and you have made it even better! The cream cheese affect is sensational , as Mom always used cottage cheese . Thank you for sharing !!