Description
Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate no-bake dessert: Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios! This nostalgic green fluff brings a creamy blend of pistachio pudding, whipped topping, pineapple, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts into one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you need a quick breakfast idea, a simple holiday side, or a light dessert for dinner parties, this easy recipe is packed with flavor and texture. It’s a must-have addition to your recipe box and perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving sweet food ideas.
Ingredients
1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip (whipped topping), thawed
0.5 cup chopped pistachios (plus extra for topping)
0.25 cup maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix the pistachio pudding mix with the crushed pineapple and juice until fully combined.
2. Fold in the mini marshmallows gently.
3. Add the whipped topping and mix until everything is fluffy and light green.
4. Stir in most of the chopped pistachios, saving a few for garnish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Top with remaining pistachios and cherries, if using.
Notes
For extra crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before folding in.
Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if you prefer a more natural option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: easy dessert, fruit salad, potluck dessert, watergate salad, pistachio fluff