Classic Waldorf Salad

Introduction

You can’t go wrong with the crisp, refreshing flavors of a Classic Waldorf Salad. Its genius lies in the simple combination of tart apples, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes, all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a timeless side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

This recipe and accompanying image were created with the help of AI for inspiration and guidance. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and technique.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (includes optional toasting/chilling)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon honey (or other sweetener)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup seedless grapes (halved )
2 large apples (one green tart apple and one red sweet apple, cored and diced)
1 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup walnuts (or pecans, toasted and chopped, see note 1)
6 leaves lettuce (Romaine or Bibb, for serving, see note 2)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Add the halved grapes, diced apples, and chopped celery to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
If using toasted nuts, fold them into the salad at this stage, or reserve them for garnishing on top.
For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
To serve, place a clean lettuce leaf on each plate and spoon a generous portion of the salad onto it.

Variations

Lighter Dressing: Use all plain Greek yogurt instead of the mayonnaise and sour cream for a tangier, protein-rich version.
No-Toasting Nuts: Use raw walnuts or pecans for a milder flavor and quicker prep.
Crunchy Addition: For extra texture, add a handful of homemade croutons just before serving.
Platter Style: Instead of individual lettuce cups, layer a bed of torn lettuce on a large platter and mound the salad in the center for a beautiful, shareable presentation.

Tips for Success

To prevent the apples from browning, you can toss the diced apple pieces with a little of the lemon juice from the dressing before mixing everything together.
Toast your nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. This unlocks a deeper, richer flavor.
Allow the salad to chill. The 30-minute resting time is key, as it lets the dressing slightly soften the crisp ingredients and the flavors become more cohesive.
Choose firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith (green) and Honeycrisp or Fuji (red) for the best texture and flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad does not reheat well and is meant to be served cold; the apples and celery will soften the longer it sits.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients a few hours ahead. For best texture, combine everything and add the nuts no more than 1-2 hours before serving.

Why are my apples turning brown?

Apples oxidize when exposed to air. Ensure you use fresh lemon juice in the dressing and mix it in promptly. For extra insurance, you can soak the diced apples in a bowl of water with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a few minutes, then drain and pat dry before using.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the sour cream?

A good dairy-free plain yogurt can be used in place of the sour cream, or you can simply use an extra 1/4 cup of mayonnaise for the entire dressing base.

What can I serve with Waldorf Salad?

It’s a classic companion to roasted turkey or chicken, a perfect side for a holiday meal, or a great stand-alone light lunch.

The dressing seems too thick. What should I do?

If the dressing is too thick for your liking, simply thin it out with a teaspoon of milk, buttermilk, or a little more lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely. While walnuts and pecans are traditional, sliced almonds or even roasted, chopped cashews would make a delicious substitution.