Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Serving bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and orange juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the crushed pineapple, whipped topping, miniature marshmallows, chopped pecans, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the salad is chilled and set.
4. Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir and transfer it to a serving bowl.
5. Garnish with additional shredded coconut and maraschino cherries, if desired.
6. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the salad is chilled and set.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 220
Total fat: 9g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 170mg
Total carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vanilla pudding mix: You can use any flavor of instant pudding mix that you prefer.
- Crushed pineapple: You can use fresh or canned pineapple tidbits instead of crushed pineapple.
- Whipped topping: You can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping.
- Miniature marshmallows: You can use regular-sized marshmallows cut into small pieces.
- Pecans: You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
- Mandarin oranges: You can use fresh or canned mandarin oranges.
- Maraschino cherries: You can use fresh cherries or omit them altogether.
- Shredded coconut: You can use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Use lemon pudding mix instead of vanilla for a tangy flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of raisins for a chewy texture.
- Use chopped almonds instead of pecans for a nutty flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped dates for a sweet and chewy addition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries well before adding them to the salad.
- If you're making this salad ahead of time, wait to add the whipped topping until just before serving to prevent it from deflating.
- You can use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought if you prefer.
- For a creamier texture, use half whipped topping and half sour cream.
- If you don't have a mixing bowl, you can mix the ingredients directly in the serving bowl.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colorful ingredients.
Garnishes:
Garnish with additional shredded coconut and maraschino cherries, if desired.
Pairings:
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve this salad with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too thick, add a splash of orange juice to thin it out.
- If the salad is too thin, add more marshmallows or whipped topping to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours or until it is chilled and set. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food history:
Watergate salad is believed to have originated in the 1970s and was named after the Watergate scandal. It was a popular dessert at parties and potlucks during that time.
Flavor profiles:
This salad is sweet and fruity with a creamy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this salad as a dessert or side dish at your next party or potluck.
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