Watergate Salad (Pistachio Fluff)

• servings: 8 servings
• active time: 5 minutes
• total time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients

20 oz. crushed pineapple (do not drain)

3 ⅖ oz. Instant pistachio pudding

3 cups mini marshmallows

1/2 cup chopped pecans (pull out 1 tablespoon for garnish)

8 oz. Cool Whip (thawed)

Directions

Prepare Ingredients: Before starting, ensure all ingredients are ready and within reach. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Combine Pineapple and Pudding Mix: In a large mixing bowl, add the entire contents of the crushed pineapple (do not drain the juice) and the instant pistachio pudding mix. Using a whisk or a spatula, stir the two ingredients together until they're fully combined and the mixture begins to thicken slightly.

Incorporate the Minature Marshmallows and Pecans: Add the mini marshmallows to the mixing bowl. Followed by the chopped pecans, but remember to reserve about 1 tablespoon for garnish later. Stir well.

Gently Fold in the Whipped Topping: Add the thawed whipped Cool Whip topping to the bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture, ensuring it's combined well but without overmixing. This will keep the salad light and fluffy.

Refrigerate Fluff Salad: Once everything is combined, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. The extended refrigeration will allow the marshmallows to absorb moisture and puff up, giving the salad its characteristic fluffy dessert texture.

Serve and Enjoy:

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to refresh. Transfer the salad to your serving dish, and garnish with the tablespoon of reserved chopped pecans. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, you can also sprinkle some candied pecans on top. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

• Calories: 255 kcal
• Total Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Sodium: 40 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Total Sugars: 30 g
• Protein: 2 g