If you’re craving a salad that perfectly balances crunch, creaminess, and a touch of tangy sweetness, you’re in for a treat with this classic Waldorf Salad Recipe. This timeless dish combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy walnuts, and refreshing celery all tossed in a zesty yogurt and lemon dressing that makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re making a light lunch or a stunning side, this recipe is simple, vibrant, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together in no time. I love sharing this Waldorf Salad Recipe because it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Waldorf Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the salad truly special. From the tartness of the apples to the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, every element is essential.
- 2 crisp apples (e.g., Granny Smith): Perfect for adding a juicy crunch and tart flavor that brightens the salad.
- 1 cup red grapes: These bring a burst of sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts: Toasted for a warm, nutty crunch that adds depth to every bite.
- 2 celery stalks: Adds a fresh, crisp texture that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy base that keeps the dressing light yet rich with a tangy twist.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: This brightens the dressing and prevents the apples from browning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Waldorf Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, wash your apples thoroughly, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Slicing your grapes in half not only improves the texture but also helps distribute their sweetness evenly throughout the salad.
Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
Warm a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the chopped walnuts for about 5 minutes until they turn golden brown and release their nutty aroma. This step is key to elevating the flavor and adding a satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Season this simple dressing with salt and pepper to taste—this creates the perfect balance between creamy and tangy.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Gently fold in the chopped apples, halved grapes, toasted walnuts, and chopped celery into your yogurt dressing. Make sure every piece is coated evenly to meld all those textures and flavors together harmoniously.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Waldorf Salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to develop beautifully and gives the salad a refreshing coolness that’s perfect for warm days or as a side to richer dishes.
How to Serve Waldorf Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your Waldorf Salad with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few whole walnuts on top. This adds visual appeal and a hint of herbal freshness that complements the nutty, fruity ingredients wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Waldorf Salad Recipe pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein-packed meal, or alongside a hearty sandwich on a picnic. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to roast meats and can brighten up any holiday spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in crisp lettuce cups or hollowed-out apples for a charming presentation that will wow guests. Alternatively, layering the ingredients in a clear glass bowl creates a beautiful mosaic of colors that’s as appetizing to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunch of the apples and celery.
Freezing
Because of the fresh fruits and creamy dressing, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. The texture of the apples and grapes will degrade, and the dressing might separate, altering the delightful freshness of the dish.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold. If you want to enjoy leftovers, simply give it a gentle stir after refrigeration. Avoid reheating to preserve the crisp textures and fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes, adding their own unique crunch and flavor to the Waldorf Salad Recipe.
Is Greek yogurt the best option for the dressing?
Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tang that balances the fruit’s sweetness. You can substitute with mayonnaise for a traditional twist or use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
Can I prep this salad the day before?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just add the walnuts last if you want to keep them extra crunchy.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add a scoop of cooked chicken or turkey breast, or even some chickpeas to boost the protein content and make it a satisfying meal on its own.
What’s the origin of Waldorf Salad?
The Waldorf Salad originated in the early 1900s at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City and has since become a beloved classic thanks to its fresh, elegant flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Waldorf Salad Recipe is a timeless gem that brings joy through its mix of crisp fruits, toasted nuts, and creamy dressing. It’s a dish I return to whenever I want something light, refreshing, and effortlessly impressive. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it just as much as I do!
Print
Waldorf Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and healthy Waldorf Salad featuring crisp apples, juicy grapes, toasted walnuts, and crunchy celery, all tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt and lemon dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 crisp apples (e.g., Granny Smith), washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup red grapes, sliced in half
Nuts
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Vegetables
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces and slice the grapes in half to ensure easy eating and a perfect bite size.
- Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for about 5 minutes until they are fragrant and golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Combine all components: Fold the chopped apples, halved grapes, toasted walnuts, and chopped celery into the dressing, mixing gently so all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For added sweetness, you can drizzle a little honey into the dressing.
- To make it vegan, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt variety.
- Use toasted pecans or almonds as a nut alternative.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days but is freshest the day it’s made.
- For extra crunch, add some diced celery leaves or water chestnuts.
