Watergate salad

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Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad, also known as Pistachio Delight or Shut the Gate Salad, is a type of dessert salad that is made from pistachio pudding, pineapple, whipped topping, and marshmallows. It is often garnished with additional fruits, nuts, or maraschino cherries.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of Watergate Salad are somewhat unclear, but it is generally believed to have been created in the 1970s. The name "Watergate Salad" is thought to have been derived from the Watergate scandal, which was a major political scandal in the United States during the 1970s. However, the exact connection between the salad and the scandal is unknown.

Ingredients and Preparation[edit | edit source]

The main ingredients of Watergate Salad are pistachio pudding, canned pineapple, whipped topping, and marshmallows. Additional ingredients can include coconut, walnuts, and maraschino cherries.

To prepare Watergate Salad, the pistachio pudding mix is combined with the pineapple and its juice in a large bowl. The whipped topping and marshmallows are then folded in. The salad is typically refrigerated for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. It can be garnished with additional whipped topping, nuts, or cherries if desired.

Variations[edit | edit source]

There are many variations of Watergate Salad, with different ingredients added or substituted according to personal preference. Some versions include mandarin oranges, bananas, or pecans. Others replace the pistachio pudding with lemon or vanilla pudding.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Despite its somewhat controversial name, Watergate Salad has become a popular dish in the United States, particularly for potluck dinners and holiday meals. It is often served as a side dish, but can also be enjoyed as a dessert.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Watergate salad Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD