Waldorf Salad Recipe
Introduction
The classic Waldorf Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all coated in a creamy dressing. This simple yet elegant salad makes a perfect light lunch or a vibrant side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp. plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 cup halved red grapes
- 1 cup chopped apples
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted
- Bibb lettuce, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth and combined.
- Step 2: Add the halved grapes, chopped apples, sliced celery, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Fold gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Step 3: Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the top and serve the salad over fresh Bibb lettuce leaves.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with extra yogurt.
- Try adding raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Use different nuts such as pecans or almonds if walnuts are not available.
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery leaves or a few sliced radishes.
Storage
Store the Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, keep the walnuts separate and add them just before serving. Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Store it refrigerated and add the walnuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
What type of apples work best in Waldorf Salad?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji hold their texture well and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the grapes.
PrintWaldorf Salad Recipe
This classic Waldorf Salad is a refreshing and crunchy blend of fresh apples, grapes, celery, and toasted walnuts, all coated in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, yogurt, and lemon juice. Served on a bed of crisp Bibb lettuce, it’s a perfect light lunch or side dish that balances sweetness, tartness, and a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting walnuts)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Salad
- 1 cup halved red grapes
- 1 cup chopped apples
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted
- Bibb lettuce, for serving
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture will coat the salad ingredients perfectly, lending a tangy and rich flavor.
- Combine the salad ingredients: Add the halved grapes, chopped apples, sliced celery, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the ingredients together just until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to mash the fruit or celery to preserve their crunch.
- Season and add walnuts: Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top to add a nutty crunch and slightly toasted flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Serve: Arrange a bed of Bibb lettuce leaves on serving plates or a platter. Spoon the Waldorf Salad over the lettuce and serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- For a lighter dressing, use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reduce the amount of mayonnaise.
- Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor; toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweetness of grapes and mayonnaise-based dressing.
- Prepare the salad just before serving to prevent the apples and celery from becoming soggy.
- This salad can be made vegan by substituting mayonnaise with vegan mayo and yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Keywords: Waldorf Salad, apple salad, grape salad, celery salad, healthy salad, classic salad, creamy salad dressing, walnut salad, light lunch
