The Watergate salad, a classic dessert that has been delighting taste buds for decades. Its creamy texture and sweet flavors have made it a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. But what if you’re looking to mix things up and try something new? Or perhaps you’re seeking a vegan or gluten-free alternative to the original recipe?
Well, look no further! We’ve scoured the internet for the most creative and delicious Watergate salad recipes out there, and we’re excited to share them with you. From classic variations like pistachio pudding and whipped cream, to more adventurous takes featuring coconut, caramel drizzle, and even spiced rum, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 creamy Watergate salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newbie, these recipes are easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. So grab a spoon and let’s get started on our journey through the world of Watergate salads!
Classic Watergate Salad with Pistachio Pudding
A refreshing and elegant salad that combines the sweetness of pistachios with the tanginess of whipped cream, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained and segmented
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add granulated sugar and whisk until combined.
3. Stir in chopped chives.
4. Arrange the mandarin oranges, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using) on a large serving platter or individual plates.
5. Dollop the whipped cream mixture over the salad ingredients.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Watergate Salad with Marshmallows and Pineapple
This refreshing salad is a fun twist on the classic Jell-O mold dessert. With its sweet and tangy combination of marshmallows, pineapple, and whipped cream, it’s sure to be a hit at your next potluck or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over boiling water and let it soften for 2-3 minutes.
2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together cold water and heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Add pineapple juice to the whipped cream mixture and mix until combined.
4. Pour softened gelatin into the whipped cream mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Fold in diced pineapple and mini marshmallows.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Watergate Salad with Cool Whip and Pecans
A classic retro salad that’s sweet, tangy, and crunchy all at once! This Watergate Salad is a nostalgic treat that combines fresh greens, juicy pineapple, and creamy Cool Whip, topped off with toasted pecans for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup Cool Whip
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and pineapple chunks.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Cool Whip, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Spoon the Cool Whip mixture over the greens and pineapple.
4. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the salad.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is served chilled, so simply prepare it just before serving.
Light Watergate Salad with Greek Yogurt
A refreshing twist on the classic Watergate salad, this lighter version replaces the traditional whipped cream with creamy Greek yogurt. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, red bell pepper, and chicken breast.
2. Stir in the chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt until smooth.
4. Pour the yogurt over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Watergate Salad with Coconut and Maraschino Cherries
This refreshing salad is a retro classic, featuring a creamy coconut dressing, sweet maraschino cherries, and crunchy pecans. A perfect side dish for your next dinner party or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and shredded coconut. Mix until smooth.
2. Add maraschino cherry juice and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped parsley.
4. Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and pecans.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Vegan Watergate Salad with Dairy-Free Pudding
A refreshing twist on the classic Watergate salad, this vegan version replaces traditional dairy products with creamy alternatives.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup dairy-free whipped cream (see below)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy-Free Pudding:
– 1 cup soy milk or other non-dairy milk
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together soy milk, cornstarch, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour pudding over salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Sprinkle with chopped mint and season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Watergate Salad with Crushed Pineapple and Mini Marshmallows
A classic salad from the 1970s, Watergate Salad gets a sweet twist with crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows. This retro recipe is perfect for a nostalgic treat or a unique addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Jell-O (orange or lemon)
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup whipped cream
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until chilled.
4. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into Jell-O mixture until well combined.
6. Stir in crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, sugar, and salt.
7. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (chilling time)
Chocolate Watergate Salad with Pistachio and Cocoa
Chocolate Watergate Salad with Pistachio and Cocoa
A unique twist on the classic Waldorf salad, this decadent dessert combines the flavors of chocolate, pistachio, and cocoa for a treat that’s sure to impress.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup pistachio meal (or 1 tablespoon pistachio paste)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- Salt, to taste
- Melt the butter and whisk together with the heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, nuts, and pistachio meal (or paste). Stir to combine.
- Pour the cooled chocolate mixture over the strawberry mixture and stir until well combined.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
<Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes, serves 6-8
Watergate Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Whipped Cream
A classic dessert that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges, whipped cream, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to combine.
3. Fold the orange mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Spoon the salad into individual serving dishes or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Watergate Salad with Pistachios and Fresh Cherries
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of cherries with the crunch of pistachios, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherries, and pistachios.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watergate Salad with Almond Extract and Toasted Almonds
This classic salad is a refreshing twist on traditional green salads, featuring the sweetness of candied watergate pecans and the richness of almond extract.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup candied Watergate pecans
– 2 tablespoons Almond Extract
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Drizzle Almond Extract over the greens and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle candied Watergate pecans and toasted almonds evenly over the salad.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watergate Salad with Lime Jell-O and Coconut Flakes
This retro-inspired salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Watergate salad, featuring a tangy lime Jell-O dessert-like base, crunchy coconut flakes, and a medley of sweet and savory ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) Lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained and sliced
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Lime Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until the mixture thickens.
3. Fold in heavy cream until well combined.
4. Stir in shredded coconut, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and chopped pecans.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Watergate Salad with Ricotta Cheese and Honey
A refreshing twist on the classic Watergate salad, this recipe adds a tangy and sweet element with ricotta cheese and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup watergate salad mix (lettuce, celery, and red bell pepper)
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watergate salad mix.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the ricotta-honey mixture over the salad mix and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook, quick-fix recipe perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Watergate Salad with Crushed Graham Crackers
A classic 1970s-era dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make and delightfully retro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed graham crackers, sugar, and salt.
3. Fold the graham cracker mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. If using walnuts, fold them in at this stage.
5. Spoon the salad into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Drizzle the pineapple juice over the top of the salad.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Watergate Salad with Cream Cheese and Vanilla Wafers
Watergate Salad with Cream Cheese and Vanilla Wafers Recipe
A classic American salad that’s sweet, creamy, and crunchy all at once! This Watergate Salad recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the tender crunch of vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Fresh fruit of your choice (such as strawberries, blueberries, or grapes)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
4. Stir in the crushed vanilla wafers and chopped nuts (if using).
5. Spoon the salad into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Top with fresh fruit of your choice.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake, quick-and-easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Watergate Salad with Bananas and Walnuts
This classic salad has been a staple of American cuisine since the 1970s, and for good reason – its creamy texture, sweet flavors, and crunchy walnuts make it a delight to eat. With the addition of ripe bananas, this salad is perfect for warm weather or as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of pineapple-flavored yogurt
– 2 cups of chopped fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, grapes)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple yogurt and chopped fresh fruit.
2. Stir in the sliced bananas and chopped walnuts until well combined.
3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on chilling time)
Watergate Salad with Strawberries and Pistachios
A refreshing twist on the classic Watergate salad, this recipe adds sweet strawberries and crunchy pistachios to create a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup diced seedless green grapes
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine heavy cream and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the diced grapes, pineapple, and strawberries. Toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the fruit mixture. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Watergate Salad with Lemon Pudding and Blueberries
A refreshing and tangy salad that combines the sweetness of blueberries, the creaminess of lemon pudding, and the crunch of greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup lemon pudding (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and blueberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon pudding and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the lemon pudding mixture over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watergate Salad with Caramel Drizzle and Sea Salt
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring a crunchy Watergate mix, topped with a rich caramel drizzle and finished with a touch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Watergate mix (crunchy salad mix)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– Flaky sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the Watergate mix and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the caramel sauce.
5. Pour the caramel drizzle over the Watergate mix and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt to taste.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watergate Salad with Spiced Rum and Candied Pecans
This classic cocktail party salad gets a luxurious twist with the addition of spiced rum and candied pecans, perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup candied pecans
– 1 tablespoon spiced rum (such as Captain Morgan)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mandarin oranges and heavy cream.
2. Add the mixed greens to the bowl and toss until well combined.
3. Sprinkle the candied pecans over the salad and toss again.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the spiced rum and honey until smooth.
5. Drizzle the rum-honey mixture over the salad and toss gently.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy delights with these 20 Watergate Salad recipes! From classic pistachio pudding to innovative vegan and dairy-free options, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add a touch of marshmallows, whipped cream, or even chocolate to give your salad an extra boost. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing treat or a rich and decadent indulgence, these Watergate Salad recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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