Waldorf Salad Recipe

While traditional Waldorf salads are covered in rich mayo-based dressing, this deconstructed Waldorf Salad Recipe is a significantly lighter version.

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

Healthier versions of Salad Recipes are a wonderful way to keep the flavor without the calories of some popular dishes.

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Lemonade Grape Popsicles is a terrific way to cool down with grapes!

Why You’ll Love This Waldorf Salad Recipe

Waldorf salad recipe delivers crisp texture, refreshing flavor and a creamy finish in every bite.

• Classic sweet and savory combination: Apples, grapes and celery create a fresh, balanced flavor.
• Crunchy texture: Walnuts and crisp produce add satisfying crunch throughout the salad.
• Lightened-up dressing: A blend of mayonnaise and yogurt creates creamy texture with a lighter feel.
• Perfect make-ahead dish: Chills well and tastes even better after the flavors blend together.

Waldorf salad recipe delivers refreshing crunch and creamy sweetness in a timeless salad perfect for any occasion.

What Goes With Waldorf Salad Recipe

This fresh and creamy salad pairs well with a variety of light and hearty dishes that complement its sweet, crisp flavors while creating a balanced meal:

• Grilled chicken or turkey: The fresh fruit and creamy dressing pair beautifully with savory roasted or grilled meats.
• Soup: Tomato soup or a light vegetable soup creates a comforting and balanced lunch combination.
• Croissants or sandwiches: A flaky pastry or deli sandwich complements the crunchy salad texture perfectly.
• Crackers or artisan bread: Adds crunch and makes the salad feel more substantial as a meal.
• Holiday meals: A refreshing side dish that balances rich main dishes during gatherings and celebrations.

These pairings make waldorf salad recipe perfect for lunches, potlucks or holiday meals.

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

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To prepare waldorf salad recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
• Mixing Bowls: To prepare the dressing and combine the salad.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To chop apples, celery and grapes.
• Mixing Spoon: To toss the salad evenly with the dressing.

These tools make it easy to create waldorf salad recipe with crisp texture, creamy dressing and perfectly balanced flavor every time.

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create a crisp and creamy salad.

• Apples
• Celery
• Grapes
• Walnuts
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Lettuce (optional)

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

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

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! 

More Salad Recipes with Grapes

Explore more salad recipes with grapes that combine fresh ingredients with sweet, juicy flavor.

• Best Grape Salad Recipe
• Fennel and Grape Potato Salad
• Grape Salad with Honey-Lime Quinoa
• Broccoli Grape Salad Recipe
• Fresh Berry Grape Salad
• Creamy Grape Salad

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