Waldorf Salad is a classic American fruit and nut salad made with crisp apples, grapes, celery, and toasted pecans tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. It’s fresh, crunchy, and easy to prepare, perfect as a side dish or light lunch. This delightful salad not only bursts with flavor but also brings a colorful presentation to your table, making it an ideal choice for any gathering or meal.

Why You’ll Love This Waldorf Salad

There are countless reasons to love this Waldorf Salad recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 10 minutes from start to finish. Second, this salad is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual lunches to elegant holiday gatherings. Third, it combines a delightful mix of textures and flavors, with crunchy apples, juicy grapes, and rich pecans. Additionally, it’s a vegetarian-friendly dish and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences, such as a nut-free Waldorf Salad recipe. Lastly, it’s a healthy option packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients for Waldorf Salad

Gather these items:

• 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup halved red grapes
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• Boston lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

How to Make Waldorf Salad Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, and salt until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add diced apples, grapes, celery, toasted pecans, and chopped parsley.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Serve the salad immediately on lettuce leaves or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
5. Step 5: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Waldorf Salad

Keep these in mind:

• For a creamier texture, you can substitute additional Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
• Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor profile.
• Make sure to toast your pecans lightly to enhance their flavor.
• Always toss the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.

Best Ways to Serve Waldorf Salad

This Waldorf Salad is delicious on its own but can also be served in various creative ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it on a bed of Boston lettuce for a beautiful presentation.
• Pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier meal, creating a delightful Waldorf Salad with chicken.
• Include it as part of a buffet for holiday gatherings, where it can shine as a standout dish.

How to Store and Reheat Waldorf Salad

To keep your Waldorf Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days, but for the best taste, consume it within 1-2 days. If you’re meal prepping, consider preparing the ingredients in advance and mixing them just before serving to retain their freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waldorf Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Waldorf Salad?

The secret to a perfect Waldorf Salad lies in the freshness of the ingredients. Using crisp apples and juicy grapes ensures a delightful crunch, while the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. Additionally, don’t skimp on toasting the pecans, as this enhances their flavor.

Can I make Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Waldorf Salad ingredients ahead of time. However, it’s best to mix the dressing and toss the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the apples and celery.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Waldorf Salad?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your ingredients are fresh and crisp. Also, be careful not to overmix the salad, as this can cause the apples to brown and the texture to become mushy. It’s also wise to keep the dressing separate until serving time.

Variations of Waldorf Salad You Can Try

If you’re looking for some easy Waldorf Salad variations, consider these options:

• For a nut-free version, substitute seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Add shredded carrots or dried cranberries for a pop of color and sweetness.
• For a healthier twist, use a yogurt-based dressing instead of mayonnaise.
• Mix in some cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for an added layer of flavor.

For more information on the health benefits of salads, check out this Healthline article.

Delicious Waldorf Salad Recipe for Every Occasion

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Waldorf Salad is a classic American fruit and nut salad made with crisp apples, grapes, celery, and toasted pecans tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. It’s fresh, crunchy, and easy to prepare, perfect as a side dish or light lunch.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup halved red grapes
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• Boston lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, and salt until smooth and creamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add diced apples, grapes, celery, toasted pecans, and chopped parsley.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve the salad immediately on lettuce leaves or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
5. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 5mg