Description

This Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios is a creamy, no-bake dessert made with instant pistachio pudding, whipped topping, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. A classic vintage fruit salad perfect for potlucks, picnics, and holidays—easy, fluffy, and full of nostalgic flavor!

Ingredients

1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained

1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

1 cup mini marshmallows

1⁄2 cup chopped pistachios

Optional: maraschino cherries or shredded coconut for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix with the entire can of crushed pineapple (including juice). Stir until well blended.

2. Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula until the mixture is smooth and light.

3. Add the mini marshmallows and half of the chopped pistachios. Stir gently to combine.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and allow flavors to blend.

5. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining pistachios on top. Add maraschino cherries or coconut if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

For extra texture, fold in mandarin oranges or seedless grapes along with the marshmallows.

Always use the pineapple juice—this activates the pudding and ensures the perfect consistency.

Chill for a minimum of 1 hour, but overnight is even better for full flavor development.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert / Salad
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 240
Sugar: 21g
Sodium: 170mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg