Classic Waldorf Salad Recipe

There’s something unforgettable about the Classic Waldorf Salad — a dish that dances between refreshing crunch, juicy sweetness, and creamy elegance. With crisp apples, toasted nuts, tender grapes, and a silky whipped cream dressing, every bite feels like a little celebration. Whether you’re serving it at a family picnic, a festive holiday table, or simply craving a bright, beautiful lunch, this salad delivers timeless flavor with effortless charm. Prepare to fall in love with a beloved recipe that’s always as delightful as the first taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Classic Waldorf Salad is wonderfully short, but each component makes a big impact on texture, color, and flavor. Quality really counts here — let’s savor what each star brings to this classic dish.

• Tart Apples: Use Granny Smith or any crisp, tart apple for a burst of freshness and that signature snap in every forkful.
• Sugar: Just a touch highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit and rounds out the tangy flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Not only does this keep the apples from browning, it also punches up the salad’s brightness.
• Celery: Adds refreshing crunch and a subtle, earthy undertone that balances out the sweeter notes.
• Grapes: Halved for easy bites, these gems give juiciness and vibrant color — both red and green grapes work beautifully.
• Toasted Walnuts or Pecans: A quick toast deepens the nuttiness, lending crunch and a subtle richness that’s hard to beat.
• Whipping Cream: When whipped, it turns luxuriously light, giving the salad an irresistible fluffiness.
• Mayonnaise: Binds the creamy dressing, adding tang and a velvety finish without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Kosher Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the flavors and keeps the salad from tasting flat.

How to Make Classic Waldorf Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel (if you like), core, and dice your tart apples into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl, sprinkle immediately with sugar and lemon juice, and give them a gentle toss. This not only brightens their flavor but keeps them from turning brown as you prep the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Add the Crunch and Sweetness

Now toss in the diced celery, halved grapes, and the toasted nuts. The celery delivers crispness, the grapes bring juicy pops of sweetness, and the nuts infuse deep flavor and satisfying crunch into your Classic Waldorf Salad. Mix everything together just until evenly combined.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate medium bowl, whip the whipping cream until it forms soft peaks. You want it light and billowy, but not over-beaten. Fold in the mayonnaise gently, creating a creamy, fluffy dressing that’s the backbone of this salad—ultra-light with a subtle tang.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Spoon the whipped cream-mayonnaise dressing over your fruit and nut mixture. Using a spatula, fold everything together delicately so every morsel is coated without deflating that airy dressing. Sprinkle in the kosher salt, give it a final taste, and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight) for flavors to marry and the salad to set into creamy perfection.

How to Serve Classic Waldorf Salad

Garnishes

For the prettiest presentation, scatter a few extra toasted walnut pieces and sliced grapes right on top just before serving. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few celery leaves also add a wonderful pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

The Classic Waldorf Salad shines alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or simply served on a bed of crisp lettuce. It’s also fantastic with crusty bread, light quiches, or as a centerpiece at a potluck brunch — it pairs beautifully with just about anything!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation! Spoon the salad into hollowed-out apple halves or charming little cups of Bibb lettuce for individual servings. For a festive touch during the holidays, serve it in a glass trifle bowl to show off the colorful layers. However you plate it, this salad is sure to catch every eye.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Waldorf Salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, but the celery may soften a bit over time — still delicious, just a little less crisp!

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will cause the apples and celery to turn mushy and the creamy dressing to separate. It’s not a freezer-friendly recipe, so try to make only as much as you’ll need within a day or two.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Classic Waldorf Salad is meant to be served chilled or at cool room temperature. Simply give it a quick stir if any separation has occurred during storage, and it’s ready to enjoy again.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of whipping cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute for whipping cream if you’d like a slightly tangier, lighter dressing. Just swap in two tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a refreshingly modern twist.

What’s the best apple variety for Classic Waldorf Salad?

Crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal, though Jazz, Honeycrisp, or even Pink Lady work beautifully. Choose apples that hold their shape and give a satisfying crunch.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Classic Waldorf Salad several hours in advance, or even the night before. Chilling it lets the flavors meld together wonderfully — just be sure to keep it covered until serving.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeled or unpeeled, it’s entirely up to you! Leaving the peels on adds extra color, fiber, and a rustic charm, while peeling the apples gives a creamier, more classic texture.

How can I add extra flavor or crunch?

Feel free to toss in chopped dried cranberries for a sweet-tart kick, or use a mix of walnuts and pecans for extra dimension. A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can also bring cozy warmth without overpowering the salad.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Classic Waldorf Salad is a tried-and-true favorite — it’s easy, elegant, and always crowd-pleasing. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let it add a little brightness to your table. Whether for weeknight lunches or special gatherings, it’s a dish that always brings smiles!

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