Name: Ambrosia Watergate Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 7 cups
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6.8 ounces Pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix; 40 ounces Crushed pineapple in juice; 8 ounces whipped topping; 4 cups Mini marshmallows; 0.75 cup pecans; Maraschino cherries

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Ambrosia Watergate Salad

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Ambrosia Watergate Salad

6 ¾ ounces Pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix

40 ounces Crushed pineapple in juicedo NOT drain

8 ounces whipped topping1 tub

4 cups Mini marshmallowsuse a 10 ounce bag of mini marshmallows for extra fluff if desired

¾ cup pecansChopped

Maraschino cherriesfor topping

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.

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Drain Pineapple Strategically 🍍
Reserve the pineapple juice and add it gradually to the pudding mixture instead of milk—this intensifies flavor and prevents the salad from becoming too watery while maintaining that perfect creamy texture.
Chill Your Bowl First ❄️
Place your mixing bowl in the freezer for 15 minutes before combining ingredients; this keeps the whipped topping from deflating and ensures a lighter, fluffier final texture that lasts longer.
Toast Pecans for Depth 🥜
Lightly toast your pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before chopping and adding them; this brings out their natural oils and adds a sophisticated nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Fold Instead of Mix 🪶
Use gentle folding motions with a spatula rather than stirring to incorporate ingredients, especially when adding whipped topping—this preserves the airy structure and prevents the salad from becoming dense and heavy.
Assemble Just Before Serving 🕐
Combine all ingredients no more than 2-3 hours before serving to prevent the marshmallows from absorbing excess moisture and losing their texture; the salad stays fresher and maintains its signature lightness.