If you’re looking for a dish that brings a burst of freshness and crunch to your meal, the Classic Waldorf Salad is just the ticket! This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of crisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted walnuts creates a delightful medley that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday gathering, this salad never fails to impress.

What makes this Classic Waldorf Salad truly special is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as part of a potluck spread. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Prep: You can whip up this salad in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors and crunchy textures, making it an easy way to get them to eat their fruits and veggies.
Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it a few hours in advance; the flavors meld beautifully as it sits.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats from nuts, it’s as good for you as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! This Classic Waldorf Salad uses fresh produce and pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (dairy or dairy-free)
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey

For the Salad

2 green apples (diced)
1 cup diced celery
1 cup grapes (halved)
1 cup whole walnuts or pecans (toasted and roughly chopped)
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Optional

Butter lettuce leaves for serving

Variations

One of the best parts about this Classic Waldorf Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Try different nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor twist.
Change up the fruit: Use seasonal fruits like pears or berries to keep things interesting.
Make it vegan: Substitute Greek yogurt with your favorite plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayo.

How to Make Classic Waldorf Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. This creamy mixture will bring all the flavors together while adding just the right amount of tanginess.

Step 2: Toss It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the diced green apples, celery, halved grapes, toasted walnuts or pecans, parsley, and kosher salt. Pour in your prepared dressing and gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. This step ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

And there you have it! A refreshing Classic Waldorf Salad that’s sure to become a staple at your table too. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Waldorf Salad

Creating the perfect Classic Waldorf Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some helpful tips to make your salad shine.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh apples, crisp celery, and juicy grapes not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful crunch that makes every bite enjoyable.
Toast your nuts – Toasting walnuts or pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, giving your salad an extra layer of richness that’s hard to resist.
Adjust sweetness to taste – Depending on your preference and the tartness of your apples, feel free to adjust the honey in the dressing. A little more or less can make a big difference!
Let it chill – Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive dish.
Experiment with fruits – While traditional Waldorf salads use apples and grapes, feel free to mix in other fruits like dried cranberries or mandarin oranges for a fun twist!

How to Serve Classic Waldorf Salad

Presenting your Classic Waldorf Salad beautifully can elevate its appeal at any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, consider these serving suggestions.

Garnishes

Chopped herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both taste and presentation.
Pomegranate seeds: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, pomegranate seeds not only look beautiful but also add a delightful burst of flavor.
Sliced almonds: Toasted sliced almonds provide an additional crunchy texture that complements the creaminess of the salad.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and heartiness to your meal, making it satisfying alongside the refreshing salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish flavored with herbs pairs beautifully with the Waldorf Salad, adding a wholesome element to your table.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and earthiness, creating a lovely contrast to the cool and creamy salad.
Crusty Bread: A loaf of freshly baked bread is perfect for scooping up the salad or just enjoying alongside it—plus, who doesn’t love some good bread?

Now you’re all set to impress your guests with this delightful Classic Waldorf Salad! Enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic Waldorf Salad is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors meld beautifully after sitting for a while, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance. Here’s how you can store it:

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days to maintain freshness.
If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture of the ingredients.
If you must freeze, consider only freezing the apples and grapes, but be aware they may become mushy when thawed.

Reheating

This salad is served cold and does not require reheating.
Simply remove from the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making a Classic Waldorf Salad:

Can I make Classic Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to combine beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What can I substitute for walnuts in Classic Waldorf Salad?

If you’re looking for alternatives, pecans or sunflower seeds are great substitutes that will add a nice crunch without compromising flavor.

Is Classic Waldorf Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

How long will Classic Waldorf Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your Classic Waldorf Salad will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if possible!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Classic Waldorf Salad as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering. Remember, cooking should be fun and creative—don’t hesitate to add your own twist! Happy cooking!