Creamy Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts Recipe

Introduction

The Waldorf Salad is a classic dish known for its crisp, refreshing flavors and delightful crunch. Combining apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts with a creamy dressing, it makes a perfect light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch freshly ground black pepper
• 2 sweet apples, cored and chopped
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved, or 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 cup thinly sliced celery
• 1 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts
• Lettuce, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or plain yogurt, lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped apples, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes (or raisins), and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
3. Step 3: Spoon the salad onto a bed of fresh lettuce leaves and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with plain yogurt or a mixture of both.
• Try adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Lightly toast the walnuts to enhance their flavor, but be careful not to burn them.
• Serve chilled for a refreshing taste, especially on warm days.

Storage

Store the Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The apples may brown over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Avoid storing it too long to maintain the crisp texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing and chop ingredients ahead, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to keep the apples and celery crisp.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch and flavor profile.

Creamy Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts Recipe

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A refreshing and classic Waldorf Salad featuring crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all tossed in a creamy lemon-mayonnaise dressing and served on a bed of fresh lettuce. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side dish.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dressing

• 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch freshly ground black pepper

Salad

• 2 sweet apples, cored and chopped
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved, or 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 cup thinly sliced celery
• 1 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts
• Lettuce, for serving

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: In a medium sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy dressing that balances tanginess and seasoning.
2. Add the apple, celery, grapes, and walnuts: Stir the chopped apples, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes (or raisins), and toasted walnuts into the dressing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated for a mixture of crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
3. Serve: Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a serving plate, then spoon the mixed salad over the lettuce bed. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp freshness of the ingredients.

Notes

• May substitute mayonnaise with plain yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
• To lightly toast walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
• Use red or green apples based on preferred sweetness and color contrast.
• For a dairy-free option, use vegan mayonnaise or a non-dairy yogurt alternative.
• Ensure grapes are seedless for easy eating; raisins can be used if grapes are unavailable.

Keywords: Waldorf Salad, apple salad, celery, grapes, walnuts, creamy dressing, classic salad