Waldorf Salad Recipe

Introduction

The classic Waldorf salad is a refreshing combination of crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish to any meal.

Ingredients

• 50g walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 2 apples (we used Granny Smith), roughly chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 100g mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Greek-style yogurt
• ½ tbsp Dijon mustard
• 150g red grapes, halved
• 3 celery sticks, finely sliced
• 1 romaine or Little Gem lettuce, leaves separated and torn if large

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a dry frying pan over medium-high heat and toast the walnuts for 3-4 minutes until they are lightly golden and aromatic. Transfer to a bowl and leave to cool.
2. Step 2: Toss the chopped apples with a splash of the lemon juice to prevent them from discoloring.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek-style yogurt, Dijon mustard, and the remaining lemon juice. Season the dressing well.
4. Step 4: Mix the apples, grapes, and sliced celery into the dressing, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter, then spoon the apple mixture over the top along with any remaining dressing.
6. Step 6: Scatter the toasted walnuts over the salad just before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use different apple varieties like Fuji or Gala for a sweeter twist.
• Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer dressing.
• Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness.
• For a lighter salad, reduce the mayonnaise and increase the yogurt.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To keep it fresh and crisp, it’s best to add the walnuts just before serving. Reheat is not recommended as the salad is meant to be served cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance, but combine everything just before serving to keep the apples and celery crisp.

What can I use if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream, plain yogurt, or even crème fraîche depending on the flavor and creaminess you prefer.

Waldorf Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic and refreshing Waldorf Salad featuring toasted walnuts, crisp apples, juicy red grapes, and crunchy celery, all tossed in a creamy lemon-mustard dressing and served atop fresh romaine lettuce leaves. Perfect as a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 50g walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 2 apples (Granny Smith), roughly chopped
• 150g red grapes, halved
• 3 celery sticks, finely sliced
• 1 romaine or Little Gem lettuce, leaves separated and torn if large

Dressing

• 1 lemon, juiced
• 100g mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Greek-style yogurt
• ½ tbsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Toast the Walnuts: Heat a dry frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3-4 minutes until they are lightly golden and aromatic. Remove from the pan and transfer to a bowl to cool.
2. Prepare the Apples: Roughly chop the apples and toss them immediately with a splash of the lemon juice to prevent browning and discoloration.
3. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek-style yogurt, Dijon mustard, and the remaining lemon juice. Season the mixture well with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing can be chilled and kept for up to two days.
4. Combine the Salad: Add the chopped apples, halved grapes, and finely sliced celery to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Assemble: Arrange the separated and torn lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the coated fruit and celery mixture over the lettuce.
6. Finish and Serve: Scatter the toasted walnuts over the salad just before serving to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Notes

• Using Granny Smith apples adds a tartness that balances well with the creamy dressing.
• Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor; be careful not to burn them.
• The dressing can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to two days.
• For extra crunch, celery is kept finely sliced.
• Serve immediately after assembling to keep the lettuce crisp.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Waldorf salad, apple salad, walnut salad, classic salad, creamy dressing, healthy salad, fruit and nut salad