Waldorf Salad is a timeless classic that beautifully combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy walnuts, and fresh celery, all brought together with a light and creamy dressing. Created in the late 1800s at the famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, this salad has stood the test of time thanks to its refreshing balance of sweet and savory flavors.

It’s a salad that feels both indulgent and refreshing—perfect for brunches, holiday tables, or as a light side dish alongside roasted meats. The crunch of apples, the natural sweetness of grapes, and the nutty depth of walnuts make it incredibly satisfying without being heavy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s elegant yet simple. You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something that feels special. The combination of textures—crunchy, juicy, creamy—makes every bite exciting. It’s also a versatile dish: equally at home on a casual lunch table or as part of a festive spread.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it’s a reminder of how classic recipes can still shine today. It’s nutritious, packed with fresh fruit and healthy fats from walnuts, yet it feels like a treat thanks to its creamy dressing. If you’re looking for a dish that balances history, flavor, and simplicity, Waldorf Salad delivers every time.

Recipe Information:

• Course: Salad / Side Dish
• Cuisine: American (Classic Hotel Cuisine)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: None
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~220 kcal per serving (approximate)

Ingredients

• 2 medium apples (preferably crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (red or green, or a mix)
• 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh lettuce leaves, for serving (optional garnish)

Quick Directions

1. Chop apples, grapes, and celery.
2. Toss apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Mix mayonnaise (or yogurt) with honey, salt, and pepper for dressing.
4. Combine apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts with dressing.
5. Chill briefly and serve over lettuce leaves.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Wash and dice the apples into bite-sized cubes. Toss with lemon juice immediately to maintain freshness.
• Halve the grapes.
• Slice celery into thin, crisp pieces.
• Toast walnuts lightly in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to bring out their nutty flavor, then roughly chop.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts.
• Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Serve

• Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a platter or individual plates.
• Spoon the Waldorf Salad on top and garnish with extra walnuts or a few fresh grape halves.

How to Serve

Waldorf Salad is best served chilled, either as a refreshing side dish or as a light main course for lunch. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or sandwiches. For a more elegant presentation, serve it in individual lettuce cups.

Tips for this Recipe:

• Choose crisp apples: Softer apples will make the salad mushy.
• Toast the walnuts: It enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
• Balance the dressing: Don’t overdo it—this salad should feel light, not heavy.
• Chill before serving: 15–20 minutes in the fridge lets flavors meld.

Variations:

• Healthier Dressing: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
• Protein Boost: Add diced cooked chicken or turkey for a hearty main dish.
• Fruit Variety: Mix in pears, dried cranberries, or raisins.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly but will still be tasty.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the fresh fruits lose their texture once thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

FAQ:

Q1: Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but prepare the dressing and chop the fruit just before serving for the best freshness.

Q2: Can I use green apples instead of red?
Absolutely! Green apples add a tangy note, while red apples add sweetness. A mix works beautifully.

Q3: Do I need to peel the apples?
No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin adds color and extra nutrients.

Q4: Can I make this vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan mayonnaise or coconut yogurt as the dressing base.

Conclusion

Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts is a timeless dish that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its crisp textures, creamy dressing, and refreshing taste, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served at a holiday table, a picnic, or as part of a weekday meal, this salad is a reminder of why classics never go out of style.