Waldorf Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of apples and grapes, the crunch of celery and walnuts, and the creaminess of a tangy dressing. Its versatility and fresh, crisp profile make it a cherished dish for casual lunches, festive gatherings, or elegant dinner parties.

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Ingredients Breakdown

Choosing the right apples is key to a delicious Waldorf Salad. Opt for sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor, and to prevent browning, toss the chopped apples with a little lemon juice before adding them to the mix. Toasting the walnuts enhances their nuttiness and adds a slightly smoky depth to the salad; this simple step makes a significant difference.

For the dressing, mayonnaise offers a rich, classic base, while plain yogurt provides a lighter, tangy alternative. If you prefer a vegan option, try a plant-based mayo or cashew cream. As for the sweet component, seedless red grapes bring a juicy freshness, while raisins provide a concentrated sweetness and chewiness—both work beautifully, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Start by preparing the apples. Core and chop them into uniform pieces for consistent texture throughout the salad. To add crunch and a burst of freshness, slice the celery into thin, even pieces; this ensures it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Next, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, kosher salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper in a medium bowl. This creamy dressing should be smooth and tangy, perfectly complementing the sweetness and crunch of the salad components.

Once the dressing is ready, gently fold in the chopped apples, halved grapes or raisins, celery, and toasted walnuts. Take care to mix lightly but thoroughly, coating each ingredient evenly without bruising the fruit or breaking the nuts.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Suggestions for adding a hint of spice or sweetness:
Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist, or drizzle a bit of honey for additional sweetness.

How to adjust the dressing’s consistency:
If the dressing feels too thick, thin it with a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of milk.

Tips for making the salad ahead:
Prepare the dressing and chopped ingredients separately, combining them just before serving to maintain freshness.

How can I prevent the apples from turning brown?
Toss them with lemon juice immediately after chopping to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Can I use a different type of lettuce, or is it optional?
Any crisp lettuce like romaine or butter lettuce works, but it’s not mandatory if you prefer a lettuce-free presentation.

Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free or nut-free?
Yes, use vegan mayo for dairy-free and replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Waldorf Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or smoked salmon, making it a great addition to a hearty meal. For lighter fare, serve it alongside crusty artisan bread or a simple, creamy soup. It’s also a fantastic addition to brunch or picnic spreads, where its fresh, fruity flavors can balance heavier dishes.

Variations to Try

Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a unique flavor and texture. Substitute pears for apples if you’re looking for a seasonal twist, or add dried cranberries for a tart contrast. To give the salad an international flair, mix in a pinch of curry powder or garam masala for a subtle warmth and complexity.

For a creative presentation, serve the salad in endive leaves as elegant, edible bowls, or pile it high on a platter lined with crisp romaine leaves. Garnish with a sprinkling of toasted walnuts or a drizzle of honey for visual appeal and added flavor. To maintain the salad’s crispness, assemble it just before serving, ensuring each bite is fresh and full of vibrant textures.

Ingredients

2 sweet apples, cored and chopped
1 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts
1 cup seedless red grapes, halved, or 1/4 cup raisins
1 cup thinly sliced celery
6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Lettuce

Instructions

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise or yogurt with the lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and evenly blended.

Add the chopped apples, celery slices, halved grapes (or raisins), and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Stir gently to coat the ingredients thoroughly with the creamy dressing, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Prepare a bed of crisp lettuce leaves on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the dressed salad over the lettuce, arranging it neatly for an attractive presentation. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.