Introduction

The classic Waldorf Salad is a refreshing blend of crunchy apples, juicy grapes, and toasted walnuts tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s a perfect side dish that adds a crisp and colorful touch to any meal.

Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
2 apples, cut into thin chunks
1 cup halved seedless grapes (red, green, or both)
½ cup diced celery
½ cup chopped toasted walnuts
¼ cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and granulated sugar; set this dressing mixture aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, gently toss together the chopped apples, halved grapes, diced celery, toasted walnuts, and raisins if using.
Step 3: Stir in the mayonnaise and sugar mixture until all the fruit and nuts are evenly coated.
Step 4: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

Use crisp apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balance of tartness.
To add extra freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the apples to prevent browning.
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten the salad and add a tangy flavor.
For added sweetness and texture, try mixing in chopped celery leaves or fresh herbs like parsley.

Storage

Store the Waldorf salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving. Because of the apples, the salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well chilled if prepared ahead. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Waldorf salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the apples crisp.

Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely. Pecans or almonds work well and provide a similar crunch and flavor profile.

Waldorf Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 61 reviews

A classic Waldorf Salad featuring a creamy mayonnaise dressing mixed with crunchy apples, crisp celery, juicy grapes, toasted walnuts, and optional raisins, perfect as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for toasting walnuts)
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons granulated sugar

Salad

2 apples, cut into thin chunks
1 cup halved seedless grapes (red, green, or both)
½ cup diced celery
½ cup chopped toasted walnuts
¼ cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully incorporated, then set the mixture aside.
Combine the salad ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the chopped apples, halved grapes, diced celery, chopped toasted walnuts, and raisins if you are using them. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix evenly.
Mix dressing into salad: Pour the mayonnaise and sugar dressing over the fruit and nut mixture. Stir thoroughly until all the pieces are fully coated with the creamy dressing.
Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become refreshingly cool, enhancing the taste experience when served.

Notes

Use tart apples such as Granny Smith for a balanced sweet and sour flavor.
To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
Raisins are optional but add a nice sweetness and chewiness to the salad.
For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light salad dressing.
This salad is best served chilled and consumed within one day for optimal freshness.

Keywords: Waldorf Salad, apple salad, fruit salad, creamy salad, lunch salad, classic salad recipe