They are similar, but not quite the same. Watergate salad (another retro dessert) gets its flavor from pistachio pudding mix, so it tastes quite a bit different. Also, most recipes for watergate salad do not include mandarin oranges or shredded coconut, and the cherries are usually just a garnish. If you're looking for a pistachio dessert, check out my pistachio cake (made without the need for any pudding mix!).