Classic Waldorf Salad Recipe
Introduction
The classic Waldorf salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Made with crisp apples, celery, walnuts, and grapes, it’s dressed in a creamy lemony mayonnaise that brightens every bite. It’s a timeless salad that works wonderfully as a side or light lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Red Delicious), diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped celery, walnuts, and halved grapes.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture, gently tossing to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Serve the salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for a sweeter twist.
- Use a mix of red and green grapes to add color contrast.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a little extra lemon juice before mixing. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the dressing may cause the ingredients to soften if left too long. Reheat is not recommended.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare Waldorf salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare the salad just before serving to maintain its crisp texture and fresh flavors. If you must prepare in advance, keep the apples separate and toss them in just before serving.
What type of apples work best in this salad?
Firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Red Delicious work best as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
PrintClassic Waldorf Salad Recipe
Classic Waldorf Salad is a fresh and crisp fruit and nut salad featuring diced apples, celery, walnuts, and grapes tossed in a creamy mayonnaise and lemon dressing. Served on a bed of lettuce, it’s a perfect light and refreshing side dish or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Red Delicious), diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit and nuts: In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped celery, walnuts, and halved grapes carefully to mix all the ingredients evenly without bruising the fruit.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture and gently toss everything together to coat evenly without breaking up the ingredients.
- Serve: Arrange a bed of fresh lettuce leaves on a serving dish, place the dressed Waldorf salad on top, and serve immediately to enjoy the crisp freshness.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Red Delicious to maintain crunch.
- Chill the salad before serving if time allows to enhance flavors and crispness.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly to add extra flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar if a sweeter salad is desired.
Keywords: Waldorf salad, classic salad, apple celery salad, creamy salad, walnut salad, easy side dish
