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Creamy Watergate Salad Recipe Easy Classic Family Reunion Favorite

Creamy Watergate Salad Recipe - featured image
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A nostalgic and creamy dessert salad featuring pistachio pudding, marshmallows, pineapple, and pecans, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 2 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
  • 1 cup whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pistachio pudding mix with 2 cups cold water until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  2. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream until well combined.
  3. Gently fold in 1 cup of thawed whipped topping using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Drain the can of crushed pineapple thoroughly and fold it along with 2 cups of miniature marshmallows into the mixture.
  5. Stir in 3/4 cup of chopped pecans. Toast them lightly in a dry pan for 3-4 minutes before adding for more flavor.
  6. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if desired and mix gently.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  8. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and marshmallows to soften. Drain pineapple well to avoid a runny salad. Fold ingredients gently to keep the salad light and fluffy. Toast pecans lightly for enhanced flavor. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream and whipped topping with coconut-based alternatives. For nut-free, omit pecans and add toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds.

Nutrition

Keywords: Watergate Salad, creamy salad, pistachio pudding salad, family reunion recipe, dessert salad, easy salad, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/creamy-watergate-salad-recipe-easy-classic-family-reunion-favorite/