Waldorf Salad Recipe
Introduction
The classic Waldorf Salad is a refreshing mix of crisp apples, celery, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 2 sweet apples, cored and chopped
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved, or 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 cup thinly sliced celery
- 1 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts
- Lettuce, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth.
- Step 2: Add the chopped apples, sliced celery, halved grapes (or raisins), and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Step 3: Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a serving plate and spoon the salad on top. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- To toast walnuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Add a handful of chopped celery leaves or fresh parsley for extra freshness.
- Try substituting grapes with dried cranberries or chopped fresh pears for a different twist.
Storage
Store the Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The apples may brown over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, stir gently before serving. Avoid storing the salad on lettuce; add fresh lettuce leaves just before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad mixture without lettuce up to a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
What can I use if I don’t have walnuts?
Pecans or almonds make great substitutes and add a similar crunch and flavor to the salad.
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Waldorf Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Waldorf Salad featuring a creamy mayonnaise and lemon dressing tossed with crunchy apples, celery, sweet grapes, and toasted walnuts. Served on a bed of fresh lettuce, this refreshing salad balances sweet, tart, and nutty flavors for a light and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pinch freshly ground black pepper
Salad
- 2 sweet apples, cored and chopped
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved (or 1/4 cup raisins)
- 1 cup thinly sliced celery
- 1 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts
- Lettuce, for serving
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or plain yogurt), lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and combined.
- Add the fruits and nuts: Stir in the chopped apples, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes (or raisins), and toasted walnuts into the dressing, mixing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on plates or a serving platter, then spoon the Waldorf salad mixture over the lettuce. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with plain yogurt or a combination of both.
- Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter varieties like Fuji depending on your preferred taste balance.
- For added crunch, some recipes include chopped celery root or add diced pears.
- Keep the salad chilled until serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Waldorf Salad, Classic Salad, Apple Salad, Walnut Salad, Mayonnaise Dressing, Healthy Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Easy Salad
