Ah, the Waldorf Salad! It’s a true classic, a dish that’s been around for over a century and has stood the test of time. While it’s often linked to the luxurious Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York, this salad actually dates back to 1893. It’s a refreshing, crunchy blend of fruits, nuts, and creamy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a light and refreshing appetizer for your next gathering, this salad has got your back. Trust me, you’re going to love this!
Now, before we dive into the recipe, let’s chat a bit about why this Waldorf Salad has earned its place as a staple in kitchens around the world. It’s all about the balance—crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy walnuts, and that creamy, tangy dressing that brings it all together in a magical way. Plus, it’s so simple to throw together. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it’s got a bit of that nostalgic charm.
Is this Waldorf Salad for you? Let’s see!
Waldorf Salad Are…
- Fresh & Crunchy: The crisp apples and celery bring the perfect texture to this salad, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
- Sweet & Tangy: With the juicy grapes and a little bit of lemon juice, this salad strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
- Creamy Delight: Whether you choose yogurt or mayo, the creamy dressing brings everything together for a luscious, comforting bite.
- Customizable: You can toss in golden raisins or fresh parsley for a little extra flavor and color.
- Quick & Easy: Toss everything together, and you’ve got yourself a salad in no time!

Ingredients in Waldorf Salad
Here’s the magic of this classic salad—it’s made with just a handful of ingredients, but each one adds its own unique texture and flavor. Let’s break it down:
- Apples: The star of the show! I love using a mix of sweet Honeycrisp and tart Granny Smith apples for that perfect combo of flavors.
- Grapes: Red seedless grapes, halved. They bring sweetness and a burst of juiciness.
- Celery: Crisp, crunchy, and slightly peppery—it adds a refreshing bite.
- Walnuts: Crunchy, nutty goodness that makes every bite satisfying.
- Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the ingredients together. Use yogurt for a lighter option, or go with mayo for that classic creamy richness.
- Golden Raisins: Optional, but they add a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the crunch of the apples and walnuts.
- Fresh Parsley: Also optional, but it adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon Juice: A little acidity to balance the sweetness and keep everything bright and fresh.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Just a pinch to bring all those flavors together.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions: Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the apples into bite-sized pieces and halving the grapes. Slice the celery and chop the walnuts. It’s all about getting those pieces ready for the big mix!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the chopped apples, grapes, celery, walnuts, and raisins (if using). Give it a good stir, but don’t overmix—you want everything to stay nice and crunchy.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. It’s simple but packs a punch, bringing everything together with creamy, tangy goodness.
- Toss & Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Add the fresh parsley if you’re using it, and serve immediately!
Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious dressing left on the plate.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, make a great side to this salad.
How to Serve Waldorf Salad?
You can serve this salad as a refreshing side dish, a light lunch, or even as a starter at a dinner party. It’s that versatile! You can also enjoy it as a simple snack when you’re craving something light and delicious. The key is to serve it chilled for that ultimate freshness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: You can chop the apples, grapes, and celery the night before to save time. Just toss everything together and add the dressing when you’re ready to serve.
- Spice It Up: If you want to give it a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the dressing. It’ll give the salad a warm, cozy flavor.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try swapping them for pecans or almonds. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based version.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?
A1: Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great swap for mayo if you’re looking for a lighter, tangier option. It won’t change the flavor much, but it does give the salad a fresher feel.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can! Just be sure to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything nice and crisp.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The apples will soften over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture can change when thawed.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just pop it in the fridge and serve cold!
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! If you’re hosting a large crowd, feel free to double the recipe. Just make sure to toss everything gently to keep that perfect crunch!
Conclusion
This Waldorf Salad is a refreshing, delightful dish that’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just craving a light, crunchy bite, it’s sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get tossing!

Waldorf Salad
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples chopped (such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith)
- 1 cup red seedless grapes halved
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup plain yogurt regular or Greek or mayonnaise
- ¼ cup golden raisins optional
- ¼ cup fresh parsley optional
- ½ Tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Remove and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, grapes, celery, toasted walnuts, yogurt (or mayo), lemon juice, raisins, and parsley (if using).
- Toss well to coat. Taste and season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately, optionally over a bed of fresh lettuce.