Watergate Salad with Homemade Pistachio Pudding

This retro dessert, also known as “Pistachio Delight,” is light, fluffy, and full of flavor. This fresh take on the classic Watergate Salad skips the artificial dyes and processed ingredients. Made with a natural pistachio pudding mix, real whipped cream, Dandies marshmallows, and frozen cherries, this dessert is a wholesome and delicious treat for any occasion.

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Yield

Serves 8

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Ingredients

For the Homemade Pistachio Pudding Mix:

1/4 cup shelled unsalted pistachios
1/4 cup raw cashews
2 tablespoons arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or maple sugar)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon spirulina or matcha powder (optional, for natural green color)

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Salad:

1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (in juice, not syrup)
1 cup Dandies mini marshmallows (or another natural marshmallow brand)
1/2 cup frozen cherries, thawed and halved
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pistachio Pudding Mix

1. In a food processor or high-speed blender, pulse the pistachios and cashews until they form a fine powder (be careful not to over-process).
2. Add the arrowroot powder,(or cornstarch), coconut sugar, vanilla, salt, and spirulina or matcha powder (if using). Blend until everything is combined into a fine, consistent mix.
3. This will yield 1/2 cup of pistachio pudding mix.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Base

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the 1/2 cup of pistachio pudding mix and 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy).
2. Heat until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes), whisking constantly.
3. Remove from heat and let the pudding cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Watergate Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple (with juice), Dandies marshmallows, frozen cherries, and chopped nuts (if using).
2. Gently fold in the whipped cream until everything is evenly combined and fluffy.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set.
2. Serve chilled and garnish with extra cherries or chopped pistachios if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 230, Protein: 4g, Carbohydrates: 26g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 24g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 25mg, Sodium: 60mg, Sugars: 18g

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Why This Version is Healthier

1. Homemade Pistachio Pudding: No artificial colors or flavors, just real pistachios and natural ingredients.
2. Real Whipped Cream: No hydrogenated oils or processed additives.
3. Frozen Cherries: No chemical dyes, unlike maraschino cherries.
4. Dandies Marshmallows: Fewer additives and made with natural ingredients.
5. Natural Sweeteners: Coconut sugar adds a subtle sweetness without refined sugars.

Enjoy this healthier version of the classic Watergate Salad, full of natural flavors and wholesome ingredients!