Description
Classic Waldorf Salad
Ingredients
2 medium apples, diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
1 medium pear, diced
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/3 cup raisins
1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Dressing:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a classic twist)
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice
Directions
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine diced apples, pear, celery, raisins, and walnuts. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Combine:
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
Chill & Serve:
Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before serving for a refreshing, chilled salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Waldorf Salad every time. First, ensure all your fresh produce is washed and dried. Core and dice the apples and pear into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Immediately after dicing, you can give them a quick toss in a teaspoon of the lemon juice (taken from the dressing portion) to prevent browning. Chop the celery finely for consistent texture and roughly chop the walnuts to release their oils. In your large mixing bowl, combine the diced fruit, celery, raisins, and walnuts. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the dry ingredients and give a preliminary, gentle toss to distribute the spice evenly.
For the dressing, use a separate small bowl. If using Greek yogurt, ensure it is full-fat for the creamiest result. Whisk the yogurt, honey, and lemon juice vigorously until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is completely smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your preference. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold the ingredients together with a light hand until everything is just coated. Avoid over-mixing, which can bruise the fruit and make the salad watery.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in multiple settings. Serve it as a refreshing side dish at a picnic or potluck, or as a light lunch atop a bed of butter lettuce or mixed greens. For a heartier meal, add shredded rotisserie chicken or serve alongside a quiche. It also makes an elegant appetizer when presented in small endive leaves or phyllo cups. Garnish with a few extra walnut halves and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful finish.
How-to Summary
Quickly prepare fruit and vegetables. Whisk yogurt, honey, and lemon juice for the dressing. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl, sprinkle with cinnamon, then fold in the dressing until coated. Chill for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, prepare it no more than 2-3 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The fruit may release some liquid over time.
What are the best apple varieties to use? Use a mix for complexity. A tart apple like Granny Smith provides structure, while a sweeter variety like Gala or Honeycrisp balances the flavor.
How can I make this salad vegan? Substitute the Greek yogurt with a vegan mayonnaise or a plant-based yogurt. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Are there any good nut substitutes? Absolutely. For a nut-free version, use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas). For a different flavor, try pecans or almonds.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of raisins? Yes, dried cranberries (craisins) are an excellent, tangy alternative that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dicing Ingredients Too Large: Large chunks are harder to eat and don’t coat well with dressing. Aim for consistent, 1/2-inch pieces.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Serving immediately doesn’t allow the flavors to marry. The brief refrigeration is crucial for the best taste.
- Over-mixing the Salad: Aggressive stirring will crush the fruit and celery, leading to a mushy, wet salad. Fold gently.
- Using Bland Produce: The salad is only as good as its ingredients. Use crisp, fresh apples and celery for the signature crunch.
Conclusion
This Classic Waldorf Salad is a timeless recipe that perfectly balances sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements. Its simplicity is its strength, relying on the quality of fresh ingredients and a tangy, light dressing. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with the many suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a reliable favorite for any occasion, offering a refreshing and satisfying bite that never goes out of style.