basic waldorf salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
basic waldorf salad recipe
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The Best basic waldorf salad recipe

The Waldorf salad is a classic dish that originated in the 1930s at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. It was created by Oscar Tschirky, the maître d’hôtel of the hotel’s Peacock Alley restaurant.

The original recipe consisted of diced chicken, celery, grapes, and walnuts, all mixed together with mayonnaise and served on a bed of lettuce. This salad was an instant hit and quickly became a staple of fine dining establishments across the country.

To this day, the Waldorf salad remains a beloved and iconic dish that is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. I love this recipe because it is so easy to make and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.

My kids adore helping me prepare the ingredients and mixing everything together in a big bowl. And the best part?

It’s incredibly healthy, making it a great choice for busy families like mine who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a show-stopping side dish for your next holiday meal, this basic Waldorf salad recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Basic Waldorf Salad

Basic Waldorf Salad

4.6 from 1068 votes

A classic Waldorf salad combines crisp apples, celery, and grapes with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This simple version is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for roasted meats.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large red apples, cored and diced
1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup raisins (optional)

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash and dry the apples, celery, and grapes.
2Core the apples and cut them into small bite-sized cubes, leaving the skin on for color and texture.
3Halve the grapes and dice the celery into pieces similar in size to the apple cubes.
4In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey or sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice for tang or honey for sweetness.
6In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, halved grapes, diced celery, chopped walnuts, and raisins if using.
7Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
8Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce leaves or as a side dish.
10The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 280mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor.

Watch Video Of How Basic Waldorf Salad Works

This basic Waldorf salad recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it on-the-go, this delicious salad is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

With its creamy texture, crunchy nuts, and sweet grapes, this recipe has something for everyone – kids love it just as much as adults do! And as an added bonus, it’s incredibly healthy, making it an excellent choice for busy families like mine who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Waldorf Salad

Q: What is the origin of the Waldorf salad?

The Waldorf salad originated in the 1930s at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.

Q: What are the main ingredients in a traditional Waldorf salad?

The main ingredients in a traditional Waldorf salad are diced chicken, celery, grapes, and walnuts, all mixed together with mayonnaise and served on a bed of lettuce.

Q: Can I customize this recipe to suit my tastes?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes by substituting different types of protein (such as turkey or tofu) or using various fruits and nuts.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe is suitable for people with dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism or veganism if you substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative.

Q: How do I store leftover Waldorf salad?

Leftover Waldorf salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It’s best to store it in individual portions to prevent contamination and ensure even distribution of flavors.

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