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Waldorf Salad Recipe

4.8 from 577 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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