Description
This Pistachio Salad is a nostalgic, creamy dessert salad that’s both refreshing and sweet. Made with whipped topping, instant pistachio pudding, marshmallows, pineapple tidbits, and crunchy pistachios or walnuts, it’s a colorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a light dessert.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Salad Mix
- 1 carton (16 ounces) whipped topping
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 6 to 7 drops green food coloring (optional)
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple tidbits, undrained
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts
- Additional whipped topping (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, combine the entire carton of whipped topping with the package of instant pistachio pudding mix. If you wish to enhance the green color, add 6 to 7 drops of green food coloring at this stage. Gently fold the ingredients together until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add marshmallows and pineapple: Carefully fold in 3 cups of miniature marshmallows and the entire can of pineapple tidbits with their juice, ensuring everything is evenly mixed without crushing the pineapple pieces.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. This chilling step allows the pudding to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve with toppings: Just before serving, stir the salad lightly, then top with additional whipped topping if desired. Sprinkle the salad with 1/2 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Notes
- Green food coloring is optional and used for aesthetic purposes to enhance the pistachio color.
- You can substitute walnuts for pistachios depending on your preference or availability.
- For best texture, do not drain the pineapple tidbits; the juice helps to keep the salad moist.
- This salad is best served chilled and eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Miniature marshmallows provide a light, chewy contrast to the creamy pudding; avoid using large marshmallows unless chopped.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
