If you’re looking for a light, refreshing salad with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this Classic Creamy Waldorf Salad is a must-try.
Crisp apples, crunchy celery, toasted nuts, and a tangy dressing come together to make a timeless American dish that works beautifully as a starter, side salad, or brunch favourite.
Save this recipe to Pinterest!
What Is Waldorf Salad?
The Waldorf Salad was first created in 1896 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.
Originally made with apples, celery, and mayonnaise, it was later enhanced with walnuts and other ingredients to add texture and flavour.
Over the years, this salad has become a classic American dish, celebrated for its crisp textures, creamy dressing, and balance of sweet and savoury flavours. Traditionally served chilled, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, summer picnics, or elegant luncheons.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crisp and refreshing: The combination of apples and celery gives a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Creamy yet light: Greek yogurt balances the mayonnaise, creating a luscious, tangy dressing without being heavy.
- Nutty and flavourful: Toasted walnuts or pecans add texture and a rich, nutty flavour.
- Easy to make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this classic salad approachable for any cook.
- Versatile: Works as a side, appetizer, or light lunch, perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Classic Creamy Waldorf Salad
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss diced apples, sliced celery, and toasted nuts.
- Add the dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
Tips for the Best Waldorf Salad
- Choose crisp apples: Gala, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp work best to maintain crunch.
- Toast the nuts: Lightly toasting walnuts or pecans enhances their flavour and adds depth.
- Prevent browning: Toss apples with a little lemon juice before mixing to keep them fresh and vibrant so they don’t brown.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the dressing to infuse the salad with flavour.
Serving Suggestions
- As a side salad: Serve alongside roast chicken, turkey, or grilled meats.
- For brunch: Pair with croissants, quiche, or smoked salmon for a refreshing brunch addition.
- In a wrap: Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a crunchy, creamy lunch option.
- At parties: Serve in small cups or bowls as a light appetizer at gatherings or picnics.
Classic Waldorf Salad
Equipment
- French knife
- mixing bowl
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Greek Yogurt
- 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tsp Honey
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- Black Pepper
- 2 Honeycrisp or Gala Apples chopped
- 1 cup Celery thinly sliced, celery leaves for garnish
- 1 cup Red or Green Seedless Grapes halved
- 1 cup Walnuts or Pecans toasted, chopped
- 2/3 cup Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, zest, honey, salt, and several grinds of pepper.
- Add the apples, celery, grapes, walnut or pecan, and parsley and mix to combine.
- Season to taste and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with celery leaves and serve.
Nutrition
Save this recipe to Pinterest!
