![- 2 cups diced apples - 1 cup celery, chopped - 1 cup grapes, halved - 1 cup walnuts, toasted - 1/2 cup raisins - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh mint leaves for garnish The main ingredients create a great mix of flavors and textures. I love using tart apples, like Granny Smith. Their crunch adds freshness to the salad. Celery adds a nice crunch, while grapes bring sweetness. Toasted walnuts give a rich, nutty flavor. Raisins add little bursts of sweetness throughout. - Yogurt alternatives (like sour cream or vegan yogurt) - Different nut options (like pecans or almonds) - Additional fruits (like oranges or pears) Feel free to switch things up! You can use sour cream or vegan yogurt if you prefer. Pecans and almonds also work great if you want different nuts. Adding fruits like oranges or pears can give the salad a unique twist. For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. Start by dicing the apples into small, even pieces. I like using Granny Smith for a nice tart flavor. Next, chop the celery into thin slices. This adds a great crunch to the salad. Then, halve the grapes. You can use red or green grapes, depending on your preference. This will add sweetness and color. Finally, toast the walnuts in a dry pan on medium heat. Stir them often until they smell nutty. This step brings out their flavor. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This dressing adds a tangy taste that pairs well with the fruit. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fruit and nut mixture with the dressing. Gently mix everything until the apples and grapes are evenly coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful. Next, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together. Just before serving, toss the salad lightly and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy your Classic Waldorf Salad! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Choosing the right apple is key. I love using Granny Smith apples. They give the salad a tart flavor that contrasts well with the sweet grapes. Other options include Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste. Always pick crisp apples for the best crunch. Toasting walnuts can boost their flavor. Start by placing them in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir them often for about 5-7 minutes. Watch for a golden color and a nutty smell. This step adds depth to your salad. You can add simple spices or herbs to elevate the taste. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten your dish. Experiment with a bit of fresh lemon zest for a zesty kick. For sweetness, consider using honey or maple syrup. A teaspoon of honey can balance the tartness of the apples. Maple syrup offers a unique flavor and a touch of earthiness. Adjust the sweetness to your taste, but don't overdo it. You want a nice balance. For the full recipe, check out the Classic Waldorf Salad recipe. {{image_2}} You can make the Waldorf salad your own. Adding protein is a great option. Cooked chicken or shrimp works well. This change adds heartiness and makes it more filling. You can also make a vegan version. Use chickpeas or tofu instead of yogurt and mayo. This keeps the salad creamy and tasty without dairy. Switching up the fruits can change the whole flavor. In fall, use crisp pears or sweet figs. In summer, try fresh berries for a juicy twist. You can also change the dressing. A light vinaigrette can give it a new taste. Or, try adding a hint of honey for extra sweetness. These variations keep your Waldorf salad fresh and exciting. For the classic recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To keep your Waldorf salad fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps to keep the salad cool and crisp. Avoid using metal containers, as they can react with the ingredients. Glass or plastic works best. You can keep the salad in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the fruits may lose their crunch. It is not a good idea to freeze Waldorf salad. The texture of the apples and grapes changes when frozen. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. Waldorf Salad started in the late 1800s. A chef at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York created it. It was first served at a charity ball in 1896. The salad features apples, celery, and walnuts. Over time, it has become a classic dish. It mixes sweet and crunchy flavors, making it popular. Yes, you can prepare Waldorf Salad ahead. This dish tastes even better after sitting in the fridge. To do this, chop the fruits and mix them with the dressing. Store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add the nuts just before serving. This keeps them crunchy and fresh. Waldorf Salad pairs well with many dishes. It makes a great side for roasted chicken or turkey. You can also serve it alongside sandwiches for lunch. The salad’s fresh taste balances rich flavors nicely. Try it with grilled fish for a light dinner option. To make Waldorf Salad healthier, you can swap some ingredients. Use low-fat yogurt instead of regular mayo. You can also add more fruits, like berries or oranges. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds. These changes help cut calories while keeping the flavor. You can find the full recipe for Classic Waldorf Salad right here. It includes all the details you need to create this tasty dish. Enjoy making it at home! Waldorf salad is a tasty mix of fruits, nuts, and creamy dressing. You now know the key ingredients, how to prepare them, and some handy tips for extra flavor. Think about adding your favorite fruits or proteins to make it unique. Remember, it’s easy to store and great for meal prep. Enjoy sharing this delicious dish with family and friends or serving it at your next gathering. Your tasty, fresh Waldorf salad will impress!](http://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/915437da-33d1-4ffb-bb72-5bb8c719e96d-300x300.webp)
Classic Waldorf Salad
Create a delightful Classic Waldorf Salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This refreshing dish combines crisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted walnuts, all dressed in a creamy yogurt and mayo blend. It's easy to make and takes just 15 minutes of prep. Whether as a side or a light meal, this salad is sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your dining experience!