Waldorf Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Waldorf Salad is a classic American dish known for its refreshing combination of crisp apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts all tossed in a creamy dressing. Originating from the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess, making it a perfect appetizer or light side for any meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

applesceleryred grapeswalnutsmayonnalemon juicehoney (optional)saltlettuce leaves (for serving)

directions

Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces and toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.

Slice the celery thinly and halve the grapes.

In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts.

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, a bit more lemon juice, and honey (if using) until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve over a bed of lettuce leaves for a classic presentation.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo for a lighter dressing.

Add diced chicken for a heartier, protein-packed version.

Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.

Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.

Try different apple varieties for varied texture and taste.

storage/reheating

Store Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Do not freeze as the texture of the fresh ingredients will deteriorate.Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and crunch.

FAQs

What type of apples are best?

Crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well.

Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead. Add nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use vegan mayo or a plant-based yogurt as the dressing base.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Tossing them in lemon juice right after chopping helps maintain their color.

Is Waldorf Salad healthy?

It’s rich in fiber and healthy fats from walnuts. Use a lighter dressing to reduce calories.

Can I serve it warm?

Waldorf Salad is traditionally served chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Waldorf Salad is a timeless, refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Its crisp textures, sweet and savory flavors, and creamy dressing make it a versatile favorite for lunch, brunch, or dinner sides. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of classic culinary history.

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