Chef Ena: Watergate Salad Recipe

Watergate salad is a sweet dessert salad made with pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream. Its name is believed to have originated from the Watergate scandal that occurred in the 1970s.

During the time of the scandal, the food industry was capitalizing on the widespread public interest in the event by creating products with names that were related to the controversy. It is said that a food editor at the Chicago Tribune named Cecily Brownstone, came up with the recipe and named it "Watergate salad" in honor of the political scandal.

Another theory suggests that the salad was named after the Watergate Hotel, which was the site of the break-in that eventually led to the scandal. According to this theory, the salad was served at events and parties held at the hotel during the time of the scandal, and the name stuck.

Regardless of its origins, Watergate salad has become a popular dessert in the United States and is often served at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and other events.

Ingredients

• 1 - 2 oz. can Crush Pineapple, Drained
• 1 - 3 oz. pack of Instant Pistachio Pudding
• 1 - 8 oz. container of Cool Whip, thawed
• ½ cup Miniature Marshmallow
• ½ cup Chop Walnuts

Preparation Instructions

1. In a large bowl mix the pineapple and instant pudding mix (please note that you are not adding milk to the like you would if you were making pudding. You are just using the mix to add flavor and texture).
2. Fold in thawed cool whip
3. Add walnuts and marshmallows until and mix thoroughly
4. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve