Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios

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Light, fluffy, and brimming with retro charm, this Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios is a beloved classic for a reason. It’s a no-bake dessert that brings together whipped topping, pistachio pudding, juicy pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts into one incredibly creamy bowl of comfort.

Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, Sunday potluck, or just need a nostalgic treat, this salad never fails to please. It has that perfect balance of sweet and tangy with just enough crunch to keep every bite interesting. If you’ve never tried it before, prepare to fall in love with a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios

This is the kind of dish that feels like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen—easy, fun, and always met with happy faces. There’s no need for fancy tools or baking skills. Everything mixes together in one bowl, and it chills beautifully until you’re ready to serve. The creamy texture and tropical flavors make it feel light and refreshing, perfect for warm days or as a sweet finish to any meal.

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Crushed pineapple is the key here. It blends smoothly into the salad without leaving large chunks, so every spoonful is evenly textured and flavorful. Make sure to use the kind packed in juice, not syrup, to avoid making the salad overly sweet. And don’t drain the juice—it mixes with the pudding mix to create that fluffy, irresistible base.

Ingredients for the Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios

This delightful dessert only requires a few pantry staples, and they all play a special role in making the salad creamy, fluffy, and flavorful.

Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix brings that pale green color and nutty flavor that gives the salad its signature character.

Crushed Pineapple (with juice) creates the juicy, tropical base that mixes beautifully with the pudding.

Mini Marshmallows add pillowy softness and a little chew that contrasts the creamy texture perfectly.

Cool Whip (Whipped Topping) makes everything light and fluffy while helping it hold its shape.

Chopped Pecans or Walnuts add crunch and nuttiness to balance the sweetness.

Maraschino Cherries (optional) are the perfect colorful garnish that gives it that vintage vibe.

How To Make the Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix with the entire can of crushed pineapple, including its juice. Stir until the pudding is fully dissolved and thickened.

Step 2: Add the Fluff

Fold in the whipped topping gently until everything is well combined. The mixture should look pale green and fluffy.

Step 3: Stir in the Goodies

Add the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts, and stir just until evenly mixed. If using maraschino cherries, chop a few and mix them in, or reserve whole ones for garnish.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors blend and allows the marshmallows to soften slightly.

How to Serve and Store This Salad

This salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge. It makes a perfect side dish for brunches, cookouts, or as a light dessert after a heavy meal. The creamy texture and fruity sweetness also make it a great contrast on any holiday table. It feeds about 6 to 8 people depending on portion size.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly more watery over time as the pineapple juice continues to release, but a quick stir before serving freshens it right up.

What to Serve With Traditional Watergate Fruit Salad with Pistachios?

Classic Baked Ham

The sweet and savory notes of ham pair beautifully with this creamy fruit salad.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Add a fresh, fruity side to balance savory grilled chicken for your next barbecue.

Deviled Eggs

Both dishes have that nostalgic potluck appeal and they sit well side-by-side.

Cornbread Muffins

A crumbly, slightly sweet bread like cornbread brings texture contrast to the fluffiness.

Roasted Turkey Sandwiches

Whether leftover or fresh, turkey and pistachio salad make a satisfying pair.

BBQ Meatballs

The tangy-sweet flavor of BBQ meatballs blends nicely with the creamy and cool salad.

Cheese and Crackers Board

Serve the salad as a fun surprise on a more savory snack tray.

Want More Dessert Salad Ideas?

If this fruity pistachio fluff has you craving more, here are a few other desserts that carry that same creative and comforting vibe:

• Try the Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich, chewy treat.
• These Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons are another vintage-style favorite.
• If you’re in the mood for chocolate, the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies deliver on indulgence.
• Explore the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes if you love sweet spice with a twist.
• And for a classic Southern finish, the Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler will steal your heart.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use pecans or walnuts? Toss in some coconut or go for extra cherries?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other whip up something special.

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