Waldorf Salad Recipe

While traditional Waldorf salads are covered in rich mayo-based dressing, this deconstructed Waldorf Salad Recipe is a significantly lighter version. Healthier versions of Salad Recipes are a wonderful way to keep the flavor without the calories of some popular dishes.

The dressing is a tasteful combination of sugar-free mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, which you drizzle on sparingly.

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History of the Waldorf Salad

The Waldorf Salad is a classic American dish that was first created in the late 1800s at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City.

The salad was a collaboration between the hotel’s maître d’hôtel, Oscar Tschirky, and the chef, who later named the dish in honor of the hotel.

The original recipe consisted of simple ingredients such as apples, celery, and mayonnaise, but it has since been adapted to include other ingredients such as grapes, walnuts, and chicken.

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Deconstructed Waldorf Salad Recipe

Did you know the Waldorf salad actually is from the late 1800s? It is a true classic!

This recipe takes just 20 minutes to prep and makes 4 servings.

For best results, I recommend you prepare the dressing in advance to give the flavors time to develop. 

Dressing Ingredients:

• ¼ c. sugar-free mayonnaise
• ¼ c. Greek yogurt
• 1½ T. honey, preferably local
• 1 T. fresh lemon juice
• ½ t. garlic powder
• ½ t. salt

Salad Ingredients:

• 1 large head Bibb lettuce, separated, rinsed, and patted dry
• 2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced
• 1 c. red seedless grapes, cut in half
• 2 large stalks celery, chopped small
• ½ c. walnuts, roughly chopped
• Optional: 2 oz. goat cheese, crumbled

Note: Granny Smith apples are crisp, but somewhat tart.

Walford Salad Recipe Directions:

If desired, substitute any crisp, sweet variety instead. (One red and one green apple would make for a nice presentation).  

Prepare the dressing by combining all ingredients in a bowl and whisking until thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings, as desired. Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. 

Assemble the salad by lining four chilled salad plates with the Bibb lettuce leaves. Top with the apples, grapes, walnuts, and goat cheese, if using.

Drizzle with some of the dressing and serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side. Enjoy! 

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