Pistachio Pudding Salad

This has been one of my favorite fruit salads since I was little. 

• 1 (3 oz) pkg pistachio pudding mix (Don't prepare the pudding - just the mix.)
• 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 c mini marshmallows
• 1/2 c chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/2 c chopped maraschino cherries
• a few cherries cut in half to garnish the top of the salad (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl.  Chill at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors blend.

Serving suggestion: Arrange cherry halves in the bottom of a jello mold, then place the salad mixture on top.  Chill, unmold to serve.