Waldorf Salad
The Waldorf Salad is a timeless classic that effortlessly balances flavors and textures. Created in 1896 at New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, it features a harmonious blend of crisp apples, tender celery, and creamy mayonnaise, with each bite embodying sophistication.
This updated version stays true to its roots while adding subtle modern touches. Juicy grapes, toasted nuts, and a hint of honey elevate the dish, creating layers of sweetness, crunch, and nutty richness. It’s a celebration of simplicity perfected.
Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing lunch, this salad comes together quickly yet feels elegant. Serve it chilled for a satisfying dish that combines tradition and taste.
Waldorf Salad Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
- Crisp Apples: The star of the salad, offering a refreshing crunch and a natural sweetness that balances the dish’s creamy elements.
- Juicy Grapes: Bursting with sweetness, these tender gems add a delightful contrast to the salad’s texture.
- Celery Ribs: Thinly sliced for a delicate crunch, they bring a subtle earthiness and freshness to every bite.
- Toasted Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nutty depth and satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the salad’s light and creamy profile.
- Creamy Dressing: A harmonious blend of mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice, tying all the ingredients together with a tangy sweetness.
Recipe Tips for the Perfect Waldorf Salad
- Choose Fresh and Crisp Ingredients
The texture of this salad shines when you select the freshest produce. Use firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Opt for celery with bright green stalks and grapes that are plump and juicy for the best flavor and crunch. - Toast the Nuts for Extra Depth
Toasting the walnuts or pecans enhances their natural nuttiness and adds a rich, warm flavor to the salad. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Allow them to cool before chopping to ensure they maintain their crunch. - Customize the Dressing
For a lighter twist, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also adjust the sweetness and tang by varying the honey or lemon juice to suit your taste. Remember to season the dressing generously, as it brings all the components together beautifully.
What to Serve with Waldorf Salad
- Grilled Chicken or Turkey
Pair this refreshing salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a complete meal. The juicy, smoky flavors of the meat complement the salad’s creamy and fruity notes perfectly. - Crusty Artisan Bread
Serve with slices of crusty baguette or whole-grain bread to add a hearty element to the dish. The bread’s chewiness works wonderfully with the salad’s creamy and crunchy textures. - A Light, Zesty Soup
A chilled gazpacho or a lemony vegetable soup makes an excellent companion, adding a bright and refreshing layer to your meal while keeping it light and balanced.
FAQ about Waldorf Salad
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Waldorf Salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but consider adding the nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan mayo, to make it entirely dairy-free without compromising on flavor.
Q: What other fruits can I add to this salad?
A: Feel free to experiment! Diced pears or a handful of dried cranberries can add an extra layer of sweetness and depth to the classic recipe.
Q: How do I prevent the apples from browning?
A: Toss the diced apples in a bit of lemon juice before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color.
Waldorf Salad
Ingredients
- 2 crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Fuji (or one of each), cored and diced into ¾-inch cubes
- 1 cup seedless red grapes halved
- 1 cup thinly sliced celery 2 to 3 stalks with optional leaves reserved for garnish
- 1 cup toasted walnuts or pecans coarsely chopped
- 3 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley with extra for garnish
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt Diamond Crystal preferred
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus additional for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
- Assemble the Salad
- Place the diced apples, halved grapes, sliced celery, toasted nuts, and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Combine and Serve
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly coated. Transfer to a serving dish, garnishing with parsley and celery leaves, if desired. Add a final sprinkle of black pepper for a finishing touch.
- Tip
- To toast the nuts, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the walnuts or pecans evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden brown and aromatic. Allow them to cool before chopping.
- This classic dish is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours.
