Classic Waldorf Salad | Fresh, Crunchy & Creamy
1. Introduction
The Waldorf Salad is a timeless American classic — light, refreshing, and full of texture. Created in the late 1800s at New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, this salad has stood the test of time, beloved for its crisp apples, crunchy celery, toasted walnuts, and juicy grapes, all coated in a luxuriously creamy dressing.
It’s a dish that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making it perfect for brunches, picnics, holiday tables, or a simple weekday lunch. With every bite, you get crunch, creaminess, and a burst of fruity freshness.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad
- Apples (2 large, red or green, chopped) – Choose crisp varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith for freshness and crunch.
- Celery (2 stalks, thinly sliced) – Adds signature crispness and balance.
- Red Grapes (1 cup, halved) – Provide juicy sweetness.
- Walnuts (½ cup, toasted and chopped) – Add nutty richness and texture.
- Romaine or Butter Lettuce (optional, for serving) – Provides a refreshing base and presentation.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise (½ cup) – The creamy base that ties everything together.
- Plain Greek Yogurt (¼ cup, optional) – Adds tang and lightness to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp, freshly squeezed) – Keeps the apples from browning and brightens flavor.
- Honey (1 tsp, optional) – Balances tartness with subtle sweetness.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances overall flavor.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning and to add brightness.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust sweetness or tang to your taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce leaves or in individual bowls.
4. Tips and Variations
- Classic version: Use only mayonnaise (no yogurt) for a richer, old-fashioned flavor.
- Healthier twist: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter salad.
- Add protein: Mix in diced cooked chicken for a Chicken Waldorf Salad.
- Nut-free version: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
- Sweet touch: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or mandarin orange segments.
- Modern version: Sprinkle with pomegranate arils for color and freshness.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer.
- Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or turkey for a balanced meal.
- Perfect addition to holiday buffets, tea parties, or brunch spreads.
- Serve in lettuce cups or croissant sandwiches for elegant presentation.
6. Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: The apples and celery lose texture when thawed.
- Re-toss before serving: The dressing may separate slightly; stir well before eating.
7. Recipe Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples — softer ones can make the salad mushy.
- Toasting walnuts enhances flavor and keeps them crunchy.
- Always chill before serving for the best texture and taste.
- You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- For presentation, serve over crisp lettuce leaves or in a chilled bowl.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 17 g |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 45 mg |
| Iron | 0.7 mg |
Estimated nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Salad / Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting nuts)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 apples, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- ½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast walnuts for 5–7 minutes at 350°F until fragrant.
- Toss chopped apples with lemon juice.
- Whisk mayonnaise, yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper for dressing.
- Combine apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a bowl. Add dressing and toss to coat.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
🏷️ Diet Tags:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Carb
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Rich in fiber and vitamin C from apples.
- Heart-healthy fats from walnuts.
- Antioxidants from grapes.
- Protein and probiotics if Greek yogurt is used.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?
Yes — prepare all ingredients but add dressing just before serving to keep apples crisp.
2. What apples work best?
Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their texture best.
3. Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Absolutely — pecans or almonds both work beautifully.
4. How do I make it vegan?
Use vegan mayonnaise or coconut yogurt for the dressing.
5. What can I serve with it?
Great alongside roasted chicken, sandwiches, or quiche.
11. Final Thoughts
The Waldorf Salad is elegance in simplicity — proof that a few humble ingredients can come together to create something timeless. Its contrast of sweet, creamy, and crunchy makes it a dish that fits any season, from summer picnics to winter feasts.
Make it once, and it might just become your go-to fresh salad for every occasion.