If you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, and filled with a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors, this classic Waldorf Salad Recipe is just what you need. This salad brings together crunchy apples, juicy grapes, and toasted walnuts, all coated in a luscious, creamy dressing that’s both tangy and subtly sweet. It’s a timeless dish that’s as vibrant in color as it is in taste, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a delightful everyday treat you can whip up in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of fresh and simple ingredients is all it takes to create this delightful Waldorf Salad Recipe. Each component adds its own splash of texture, flavor, and nutrition—resulting in a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
- 2 crisp apples: Choose Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness, both provide a satisfying crunch.
- 1 cup seedless red grapes: Halved for juicy bursts that complement the apples perfectly.
- 1 cup celery: Thinly sliced, offering a fresh, crunchy counterpoint to the fruit.
- 1/2 cup walnuts: Roughly chopped for a nutty texture and a rich flavor boost.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and depth to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Gives the dressing a tangy lightness and a creamy texture.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning.
- 1 tsp honey: Balances acidity with natural sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors beautifully.
- Lettuce leaves (optional): Ideal for presenting the Waldorf salad in a classic, elegant way.
How to Make Waldorf Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit and Nuts
Start by washing and dicing the apples into bite-sized pieces, then halve the grapes and thinly slice the celery. Roughly chop the walnuts so they add a perfect crunch without overwhelming the bite. Toss these fresh ingredients gently in a large mixing bowl to combine all those gorgeous flavors and textures.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens, blending creamy, tangy, and sweet notes that bind the salad beautifully.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture, then toss everything together gently. Be careful not to mush the fruit—just enough to get every piece coated. For the best flavor and texture, let the salad chill in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This also helps the dressing set perfectly around every crunchy forkful.
How to Serve Waldorf Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts or a few fresh mint leaves on top just before serving. These little touches add color and an inviting aroma that make your Waldorf Salad Recipe even more memorable.
Side Dishes
Waldorf salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or turkey for a light yet satisfying meal. It also complements hearty sandwiches or roasted vegetable dishes, adding a zing of freshness and texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Waldorf salad scooped onto crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant, bite-sized appetizer. You can also stuff it into hollowed-out apples or serve it alongside crackers for a fancy brunch spread. The options are endless with this versatile salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Waldorf salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed sooner to keep the apples crisp and the dressing vibrant.
Freezing
Because this salad contains fresh fruits and a creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture of the apples and grapes would become mushy, and the dressing could separate after thawing.
Reheating
This salad is best served chilled and should not be reheated. Enjoy it fresh from the fridge for the crunch and refreshing flavors that make the Waldorf Salad Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the Waldorf Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use all Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing or swap in a vegan mayo if you prefer a dairy-free option. The salad remains delicious either way.
How do I keep the apples from browning in the salad?
Tossing the diced apples in a little extra lemon juice before mixing prevents browning and maintains their crisp, fresh appearance throughout serving.
Can I add protein to this Waldorf Salad Recipe?
Yes! Adding diced cooked chicken or turkey turns this salad into a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner while maintaining the classic flavor profile.
Is this Waldorf Salad Recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely. All of the ingredients naturally contain no gluten, making it a safe and tasty choice for those avoiding gluten.
What is the best time of year to make Waldorf Salad?
This salad shines year-round but is especially refreshing during the warmer months thanks to its crisp fruits and cool, creamy dressing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Waldorf Salad Recipe that never goes out of style. Its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and perfectly balanced flavors make it a true joy to prepare and share. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, packing a lunch, or simply craving a fresh snack, give this salad a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to!
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Waldorf Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Waldorf Salad combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and walnuts tossed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and honey. It’s a refreshing, lightly sweetened fruit and nut salad that’s perfect as a light lunch or side dish, served chilled and optionally presented on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Core and dice the apples, halve the grapes, thinly slice the celery, and roughly chop the walnuts. To prevent the apples from browning, optionally toss them in a small amount of lemon juice before combining with the other ingredients.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and toss: In a large mixing bowl, add the apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly without mashing the fruit.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the Waldorf Salad for 15 to 30 minutes to chill and allow flavors to meld. Serve the salad on its own or spoon it over fresh lettuce leaves for a classic presentation.
Notes
- To prevent browning, toss the chopped apples with extra lemon juice before mixing.
- You can adjust the dressing by using all mayonnaise or all Greek yogurt according to your preference.
- For variations, add raisins or chopped chicken to the salad.
