Name: Classic Waldorf Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup seedless grapes, sliced in half; 2 green apples, diced (Granny Smith apples recommended); 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons mayo; 3 tablespoons sour cream; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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This Classic Waldorf Salad is fresh, crunchy, and loaded with flavor. It's the perfect side dish for any meal or hearty enough to enjoy on its own. The combination of ingredients and dressing makes every bite absolutely irresistible!

Did You Know?

The Waldorf salad was created in 1896 at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City by maître d'hôtel Oscar Tschirky. The original recipe contained only apples, celery, and mayonnaise — walnuts were not added until a later version. The salad became internationally famous after appearing in a 1979 episode of the British comedy Fawlty Towers, where it was the centerpiece of one of television's most iconic scenes.

Pro Tips

Dress right before serving to keep greens crisp. Pre-dressed salad wilts within minutes. Make sure greens are cold and completely dry. A salad spinner makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Waldorf salad?

Created in 1893 at New York's Waldorf-Astoria hotel, it is a salad of apples, celery, walnuts, and grapes dressed in a creamy mayonnaise or yogurt dressing, served on a bed of lettuce.

2. What type of apples are best for Waldorf salad?

Crisp, tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best. They hold their crunch in the dressing and provide a bright contrast to the creamy sauce.

3. How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss diced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting. The acid prevents oxidation (browning). This also adds a subtle brightness to the finished salad.

4. Can I use yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt creates a lighter, tangier dressing. A 50/50 mix of mayo and Greek yogurt gives the best balance of richness and lightness. Sour cream also works.

5. What nuts are used in traditional Waldorf salad?

Walnuts are the original and most traditional nut. Toasting them for 5 minutes enhances their flavor. Pecans or candied walnuts are popular modern variations.

6. Should I add grapes to Waldorf salad?

Red seedless grapes halved are a classic addition (though not in the original 1893 recipe). They add sweetness and juicy bursts that complement the crunchy apples and celery.

7. Can I add other ingredients?

Dried cranberries, chicken breast, raisins, celery root, or blue cheese crumbles are all popular modern additions that keep the spirit of the original while adding variety.

8. How far ahead can I make Waldorf salad?

Mix the dressing and prep the ingredients up to 4 hours ahead. Combine just before serving so the apples stay crisp and the celery keeps its crunch.

9. What dishes pair well with Waldorf salad?

It is traditionally served as a lunch salad, brunch side, or alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as part of a holiday buffet spread.

10. How do I store leftover Waldorf salad?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. The apples will soften over time. It is best made and eaten fresh for the crispiest, most vibrant texture.

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