The Best Waldorf Salad: A Classic with a Fresh Twist
Crisp, creamy, and packed with flavor—The Best Waldorf Salad is the ultimate combination of fresh apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all tossed in a light, tangy dressing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a side for your next gathering, or just a simple way to enjoy fresh ingredients, this salad is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
But did you know? The Waldorf Salad was first created in 1896 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. Originally made with just apples, celery, and mayo, it quickly became a favorite, evolving into the nutty, fruit-filled version we love today.
This recipe stays true to tradition while balancing sweetness, crunch, and creaminess in every bite. Best of all, you can make it ahead, so it’s ready whenever you need it. Serve it over crisp butter lettuce for an elegant touch, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. Either way, it’s fresh, delicious, and totally satisfying!
Ready to make your new favorite salad? Let’s get started!
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
2 med apples, diced (1 Granny Smith + 1 Honeycrisp or Red Delicious)
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted & chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Butter lettuce leaves, for serving
1/4 cup golden raisins (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Whisk the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Prep the fresh ingredients: Core and dice the apples, slice the grapes, and finely chop the celery.
3. Combine everything: Gently fold apples, grapes, celery, walnuts, and raisins into the dressing, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill & serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled over butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, crisp presentation.
HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE
- The Best Apple Combo: Use Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Red Delicious for sweetness. This creates the perfect flavor contrast.
- Toast the Walnuts for Extra Crunch: Lightly toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty richness.
- Make It Lighter: Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed twist while keeping the creamy texture.
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