Waldorf Salad
The Waldorf Salad is a timeless classic that combines crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts in a creamy, tangy dressing.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 large apples Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp, diced
- 1 cup celery thinly sliced
- ½ cup walnuts toasted and roughly chopped
- 1 cup seedless grapes halved
- 1 cup cooked chicken optional, diced or shredded
- 2 cups mixed greens optional, for serving
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp honey or to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the apples and toss them in a bowl with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Thinly slice the celery and halve the grapes.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let them cool, then roughly chop.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your preference.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, celery, grapes, and toasted walnuts.
- Add the cooked chicken (if using) and gently toss to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until evenly coated.
Serve:
- Serve the Waldorf Salad on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and color.
- Garnish with extra walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or edamame for protein.
- Dressing Variations: Use a honey mustard vinaigrette or a light yogurt-based dressing for a healthier twist.
- Seasonal Additions: Incorporate seasonal fruits like pears, berries, or pomegranate seeds for extra flavor and color.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the ingredients and dressing separately, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.