
Yields:
5 - 6 c.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
15 mins
Experience a taste of timeless elegance with this refreshing Waldorf salad. The beloved lunchtime staple is celebrated for its simplicity and balance of flavors. Crisp celery is paired with two types of apples and toasted walnuts, delivering satisfying crunch in every bite. Tossed in a creamy, lemony dressing, it's both light and flavorful—perfect for picnics, potlucks, and tea time. One forkful and you’ll understand why it's been loved for over a century!
What is the origin of Waldorf salad?
This famous salad was created by Oscar Tschirky, the first maitre d' of The Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City, for a St. Mary's Hospital for Children charity ball in the 1890s.
What does Waldorf salad contain?
The original was made with just apples, celery, and mayonnaise, but this salad has a modern spin with the addition of grapes, raisins, and toasted walnuts. Mayonnaise, yogurt, honey, and lemon juice make for a tangy, subtly sweet dressing. Waldorf salad is traditionally served on a bed of lettuce for added elegance.
What nuts can you use instead of walnuts?
If you'd rather skip the walnuts, opt for toasted pecans instead! You'll still get the nice toasty flavor and delicious crunch.
What are the best apples for Waldorf salad?
This recipe calls for two different types of apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Granny Smith apples are more tart and Honeycrisp have a sweeter flavor. The combination makes for perfectly balanced spring salads!
Can Waldorf salad be made in advance?
Yes, it will stay fresh for up to two days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup
mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp.
plain yogurt
- 1 Tbsp.
lemon juice, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp.
honey
- 1/2 tsp.
kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp.
ground black pepper
- 1
medium Granny Smith apple, diced
- 1
medium Honeycrisp apple, diced
- 3
ribs celery, sliced
- 1 cup
red seedless grapes, cut in half
- 3/4 cup
coarsely chopped toasted walnuts
- 1/4 cup
golden raisins (optional)
Boston bibb lettuce or butter lettuce leaves, for serving
Directions
- Step 1In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Fold in the apples, celery, grapes, walnuts, and raisins, if using. Taste the salad for lemon juice and salt, adding more as necessary.
- Step 2Serve chilled, spooned over lettuce leaves, if you like.
Tip: Spruce up the salad with the addition of chopped fresh parsley, mint, or basil.
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