Waldorf Salad Is An Old-Time Classic
Making this salad for guests is a surefire way to elevate any meal, especially when you want to offer a variety of flavors and textures. This is a fresh take on the traditional salad, it’s both satisfying and simple to prepare, with the addition of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and juicy grapes. This salad can be a complement to a main dish, adding a unique flair to your table. Whether you're serving it at a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, this timeless salad brings a light yet satisfying note to your meal.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the Waldorf Salad was created in the late 19th century at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City? The original version, developed by the hotel's maître d'hôtel, Oscar Tschirky, contained only apples, celery, and mayonnaise. Over the years, variations have emerged, often including ingredients like grapes, walnuts, and a sweet dressing made from honey and lemon juice. This salad became an instant hit and remains a classic dish known for its refreshing combination of flavors and textures, making it a timeless addition to any meal or gathering.
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
3 large apples, washed, cored and chopped (leave the skin on for color)
1 cup seedless grapes, halved
1 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
Lettuce leaves (for serving)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare Apples:
In a large bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Personal Tip: Use a mix of apple varieties, like Granny Smith and Gala, to add a balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Mix Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and honey until well combined.
Personal Tip: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference. For a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the grapes, celery, and walnuts to the apples. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to coat all ingredients.
Personal Tip: Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance their flavor and crunch.
Season:
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Personal Tip: A pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper really brings out the sweetness of the fruit.
Serve:
Arrange lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the Waldorf salad onto the lettuce leaves.
Personal Tip: For an extra fancy touch, use whole lettuce leaves to cup individual portions of the salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 240; Fat, 16g; Saturated Fat, 2g; Carbohydrates, 25g; Fiber, 4g; Sugars, 19g; Protein, 3g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Choosing Apples: Use crisp and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture in your Waldorf Salad. Leaving the skin on adds color and additional nutrients.
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Selecting Grapes: Opt for seedless grapes to save time in preparation. Red or green grapes both work well and add a burst of sweetness to the salad.
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Prepping Celery: To achieve a crunchy texture, finely chop celery just before mixing it into the salad. This ensures it retains its freshness and crunchiness.
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Toasting Walnuts: For enhanced flavor, lightly toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad to maintain their crunch.
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Making the Dressing: Prepare the dressing by whisking mayonnaise with honey and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your taste preferences.
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Adding Variations: Customize your Waldorf Salad by incorporating additional ingredients such as diced chicken or turkey for a protein boost, dried cranberries for extra sweetness, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve Waldorf Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for an elegant presentation. It can also be enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a delicious and portable lunch option.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftover Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
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Budget-Friendly Option: Save money by purchasing apples and grapes in season when they are typically more affordable. Consider buying walnuts in bulk for better value and use them in other recipes or as a healthy snack.
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Family Favorite: Waldorf Salad is a versatile dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. Involve your family in the preparation process to create a salad that everyone will enjoy.
Let's Learn About Grapes
Grapes are an incredibly versatile fruit, and there are many varieties commonly enjoyed for snacking, salads, and winemaking. Some of the most popular table grapes include Thompson Seedless (a sweet green grape), Concord (known for its deep purple color and use in juices and jellies), and Red Globe, a larger, juicier variety that often contains seeds. Other notable varieties include Cotton Candy Grapes, which have a unique sweet flavor, and Crimson Seedless, a crisp, red-skinned grape.
While many grapes are grown conventionally using pesticides, there is a growing availability of organic table grapes, which are produced without synthetic chemicals. Look for the organic label in stores or visit local farmers' markets, where organic grapes are often sold during their peak season. Organic farming practices help reduce environmental impact and limit exposure to pesticides. Whether you opt for conventional or organic, thoroughly washing grapes before consuming them is always recommended.
Additionally, grapes are harvested by hand to ensure the fruit is not damaged, particularly when they are intended for fresh consumption. They thrive in sunny climates, with major production hubs in California, Italy, and Spain. Each variety offers a unique flavor profile, making grapes a versatile and nutritious option for any meal or snack.