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Ambrosia Watergate Salad

Watergate salad is a creamy, fluffy no-bake dessert made with pistachio pudding, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and whipped topping. Mini marshmallows, coconut, pecans, and cherries add a mix of chewy and crunchy textures after chilling.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
chilling 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple undrained
  • 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping thawed
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges drained well
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 0.5 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 0.5 cup pecans chopped
  • 0.5 cup maraschino cherries drained, patted dry, and halved

Method
 

  1. In a 4-quart bowl, whisk the pudding mix and crushed pineapple with its juice for 1 to 2 minutes, until thickened.
  2. Fold in the whipped topping until no streaks remain.
  3. Gently fold in the mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut, pecans, and cherries.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, fold the fruit and mix-ins in gently. Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days; freezing is not recommended because it can affect the texture. For a nut-free version, omit the pecans.