Pistachio Pineapple Fluff — also known as Watergate Pudding (or Watergate Salad) — is a creamy, crunchy and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for holidays, get-togethers, or anytime you crave something sweet but easy. What makes it special is how simple it is: just five main ingredients — pistachio pudding mix, canned crushed pineapple (with juice), whipped topping, marshmallows, and chopped pistachios — all folded together and chilled until fluffy.
The first time I tasted this dessert was during a family Thanksgiving, when my mother-in-law made a giant batch of it. From that moment, I was hooked — it transformed my favorite pistachios into something even more delicious. Since then, it has become a holiday staple for me, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Even though this dessert has a fun retro vibe, it fits easily into modern tables — no baking required, minimal prep, and maximum flavor.
Why It’s Called “Watergate Pudding”
This recipe goes by many names: Watergate Salad, Pistachio Delight, “Shut The Gate” Salad, or simply Pistachio Pineapple Fluff. The origins trace back to 1975, when a brand released a pistachio-flavored instant pudding mix and paired it with pineapple in a recipe called “Pistachio Pineapple Delight.” Because this happened during the time of the Watergate scandal, the recipe was later renamed “Watergate Salad” (or Watergate Pudding) as part of a trend of satirical cooking names referring to political events.
Regardless of its name, this dessert remains beloved for its ease and nostalgic charm.
Ingredients
For a standard batch (about 12 servings), you’ll need:
- 20 ounce can of crushed pineapple (packed in juice) — do not drain the juice.
- 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes of instant pistachio pudding mix.
- 8 ounce container of non-dairy whipped topping (e.g. Cool Whip), thawed.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows.
- 1 cup chopped pistachios (for texture and extra flavor).
Instructions – Step by Step
- Combine pineapple and pudding
Empty the can of crushed pineapple — juice and fruit — into a large bowl. Add the pistachio pudding mix. Stir until the juice and pudding mix begin to thicken. - Fold in whipped topping and marshmallows
Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and there are no white streaks. Then fold in the mini marshmallows. - Add the pistachios
Fold in the chopped pistachios evenly throughout the mixture. - Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This gives the pudding time to set and allows all flavors to meld. - Serve & garnish
Before serving, fluff the mixture with a spoon. If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped pistachios on top for a crunchy finish. - Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love It
- Crazy easy: Prep time is around 10 minutes. No cooking or baking whatsoever.
- Great for groups: Yields about 12 servings — ideal for holiday dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Texture & flavor contrast: The light, creamy fluff meets juicy pineapple, soft marshmallows, and crunchy pistachios — a delightful mix.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance, chill it, and serve later — handy when hosting.
- Retro charm: Perfect if you love nostalgic, “old-school” American desserts.
A Bit of History & Context
This dessert belongs to a broader category known as “fluff salads” or “dessert salads,” popular in the United States for many decades. The core concept: combine pudding or gelatin with canned fruit, whipped topping, marshmallows, and often nuts — chill, then serve. Pistachio Fluff, with its pistachio pudding base and pineapple juice, emerged in the 1970s, riding on the wave of convenience cooking and ready-to-use pudding mixes.
Because of its green pistachio hue and fun, slightly cheeky name referencing a political scandal, Watergate Salad has remained a humorous, nostalgic favorite — especially around holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, or family potlucks.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that tastes indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen — and if you enjoy a mix of creamy, fruity, and nutty textures — you should absolutely try Pistachio Pineapple Fluff. It’s quick, delightful, and perfect for sharing. Once chilled, it becomes fluffy and flavorful, and with those crunchy pistachios on top, it feels both simple and a little fancy.
Whether you call it Watergate Pudding, Pistachio Delight, or just Fluff — it’s a dessert worth making.