Name: Ambrosia Watergate Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 7 cups
Cuisine: American

March 6, 2026

My Ambrosia Watergate Salad Recipe is heavenly creamy, light and fluffy, and absolutely delicious with the added crunch from pecans or walnuts. I have taken this side dish to countless potlucks and holiday dinners such as Thanksgiving. This ambrosia watergate salad is a definite keeper for a delightful mix of reasons that make it a timeless favorite.

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Ambrosia Watergate Salad

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Ingredients

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Instructions

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, mix the pistachio pudding mix with the juice from the crushed pineapple. Whisk it until there is no more clumps of powder remain.

Next using a rubber spatula gently fold in the Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream until combined. Do not overmix, as doing so will make the consistency denser than it should be.

Then, to the pudding and whipped cream mixture, add the crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans; fold carefully until combined.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours, or overnight, for a more flavorful salad. This will allow the marshmallows to soften and really soak up the flavor.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Drain Pineapple Juice Strategically 🍍
Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of pineapple juice to mix with the pudding mix before adding whipped topping—this prevents clumping and ensures a silky, smooth texture throughout the salad.
Chill Ingredients Before Mixing ❄️
Keep all ingredients, including the whipped topping and mixing bowl, refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before combining to maintain the light, fluffy texture and prevent the pudding from becoming dense.
Fold Rather Than Stir 🫂
Use a folding motion with a rubber spatula instead of stirring to gently combine ingredients and preserve the airy, fluffy consistency that makes this salad special.
Toast Pecans for Enhanced Flavor 🥜
Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding to intensify their nutty flavor and add superior crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy components.
Make It 24 Hours Ahead 🕐
Prepare the salad a full day before serving to allow flavors to meld and the pudding to properly set, resulting in better texture and deeper flavor development for your potluck or holiday meal.

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About the Cook

It is a Keeper

Hi! I’m Christina… welcome to my kitchen! It’s so nice to meet you! I share tried and true recipes that anyone can make. I believe, if you can read, you can cook.