Classic Waldorf Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and delightful dish, the Classic Waldorf Salad is your answer! This recipe is not only delicious but also holds a special place in my heart. It brings together crisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and rich walnuts, all enveloped in a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this salad adds a vibrant touch to any table.

What I love most about this Classic Waldorf Salad is its versatility. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a light main course. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have this salad ready to impress your guests or family.
• Family-friendly: With its sweet and crunchy ingredients, even the pickiest eaters will love it!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier experience!
• Healthy and wholesome: Packed with fruits and nuts, this salad brings nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients for this Classic Waldorf Salad are simple and wholesome. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (dairy or dairy-free)
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Salad

• 2 green apples (diced)
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup grapes (halved)
• 1 cup whole walnuts or pecans (toasted and roughly chopped)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Optional

• Butter lettuce leaves for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this Classic Waldorf Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the nuts: Use slivered almonds or sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a different crunch.
• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas for added substance.
• Experiment with fruits: Try swapping out green apples for red ones or add dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
• Go vegan: Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with your favorite plant-based alternatives.

How to Make Classic Waldorf Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and honey. This dressing is crucial as it ties all the flavors together beautifully. The tang from the yogurt combined with the sweetness of honey creates a perfect balance!

Step 2: Toss It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the diced green apples, celery, halved grapes, toasted walnuts (or pecans), chopped parsley, salt, and your creamy dressing. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

And there you have it! Your Classic Waldorf Salad is ready to serve. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next meal; I promise it will become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Waldorf Salad

Creating the perfect Classic Waldorf Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using crisp, fresh apples and vibrant celery will not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful crunch to your salad.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting walnuts or pecans before adding them will intensify their nutty flavor and provide a warm, aromatic contrast to the coolness of the salad.
• Mix the dressing ahead of time: Preparing the creamy dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to toss everything together!
• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you like a little more sweetness, feel free to add an extra drizzle of honey. Tasting as you mix helps you achieve that perfect balance.
• Serve chilled: For the best experience, chill your salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to come together harmoniously.

How to Serve Classic Waldorf Salad

Presentation can turn your Classic Waldorf Salad from simple to stunning! There are many ways you can serve this delightful dish that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness that enhances both the flavor and appearance of your salad.
• Sliced apples: Thinly sliced apples placed on top not only look beautiful but also provide an extra crunch and burst of flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs complements the crunchy texture of the Waldorf Salad while adding wholesome grains.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender grilled chicken skewers seasoned with herbs pair wonderfully with this refreshing salad, making for a balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs create a warm, earthy contrast that perfectly offsets the coolness of the salad.
• Whole Wheat Rolls: Soft whole wheat rolls are great for scooping up your Waldorf Salad, making for a satisfying addition to your meal that’s both comforting and hearty.

This Classic Waldorf Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Enjoy it as part of your holiday table or any gathering where fresh flavors shine. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic Waldorf Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious salad.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If the salad becomes too watery, give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

• I recommend not freezing this salad as the texture of the apples and grapes may change upon thawing.
• However, you can freeze the dressing separately if desired.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary!
• If you’ve added lettuce leaves, toss them in fresh just before serving for a crisp bite.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Classic Waldorf Salad!

Can I customize my Classic Waldorf Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like pears or berries, or swap walnuts for pecans based on your taste preferences.

What makes Classic Waldorf Salad a holiday favorite?

The combination of sweet apples, crunchy celery, juicy grapes, and creamy dressing creates a delightful contrast that perfectly complements holiday meals.

How long does Classic Waldorf Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Classic Waldorf Salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge!

Can I make Classic Waldorf Salad vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives to create a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Classic Waldorf Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a wonderful addition to your dining table that brings together family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a casual weeknight, this salad is bound to impress. Happy cooking!