Waldorf Salad

Creamy, crunchy, sweet and tart, Waldorf salad is a perennial favorite combination where the sweetness of apples pairs with the grassy, fresh flavor of celery. And crunchy walnuts help the two harmonize. Unsweetened whipped cream is the secret ingredient for this version. It gives the creamy mayonnaise-based dressing a pleasant lightness that coats the chopped salad without feeling heavy.

Make this salad as a refreshing side dish to serve with roast turkey or ham on a holiday. Or, prep it for an easy lunch anytime you want something with crunch.

What is Waldorf salad?

Waldorf salad is named after the elegant Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. The salad was first served in 1893 as part of the hotel’s opening celebrations, and it has been an enduring favorite ever since.

Waldorf Salad Ingredients

• Chopped apples: The apples provide a sweet, crisp texture and refreshing flavor. You’ll need three large apples, either peeled or not, whatever your preference.
• Lemon juice: The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a tangy flavor.
• Chopped celery: The celery adds a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
• Chopped walnuts: Walnuts provide a nutty flavor and add a bit of protein. Toast the nuts first for the best flavor.
• Mayonnaise: The mayonnaise binds the ingredients together and adds a creamy texture.
• Sugar: The sugar balances the tartness of the lemon juice and adds a touch of sweetness. You can omit this or reduce it, if you like.
• Heavy whipping cream: Adding unsweetened whipped cream to the dressing gives it a light and airy texture.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the apples, celery and walnuts

In a large bowl, toss the apples with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir in the celery and walnuts.

Step 2: Make the dressing and combine

In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, sugar, salt and remaining 1 teaspoon lemon juice until blended. Fold in the whipped cream. Gently stir the dressing into the apple mixture. Refrigerate until serving.

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Waldorf Salad Variations

• Add grapes: For a burst of more fruity flavor, add some halved red or green grapes or raisins to the salad. They’re a typical addition to a traditional Waldorf salad.
• Serve it with greens: Serve this Waldorf salad on a bed of mesclun mix or butter lettuce leaves.
• Swap in different nuts: Though walnuts are traditional in a classic Waldorf salad, it would be equally good with pecans or pistachios in their place.
• Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier and tangier dressing.

How to Store Waldorf Salad

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for two or three days. Do note that the longer you store it, the more the whipped cream dressing will lose its fluffy texture. It’s best to eat it soon after combining the ingredients.

Can you make Waldorf salad ahead of time?

You can. In fact, the finished salad tastes best after chilling for a little while. You can also do some of the prep in advance, such as chopping the apples (toss them in the lemon juice to slow their browning) and combining them with the celery and nuts.

Waldorf Salad Tips

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What kind of apples are best for Waldorf salad?

You can use any variety of apple you like to make Waldorf salad. What you choose will generally depend on whether you prefer a more tart salad better suited to savory applications or a sweeter salad that leans toward dessert. Combining apples with red and green skins makes for a pretty dish and creates a dynamic flavor.

How do you prevent the apples from browning?

Apples brown, or oxidize, once they’re cut and the flesh is exposed to air. It’s a natural process, but not a pretty one. There are lots of ways to keep apples from browning, but the best one is to add some acid. Toss the apples with the lemon juice in this recipe as soon as you chop them. It also helps to choose a variety of apple that is slow to brown, such as Empire, Ginger Gold, Pink Lady or Cortland.

What should you serve with Waldorf salad?

Waldorf salad is a delicious side dish for roasted chicken, roasted turkey or baked ham. It makes a nice creamy, crunchy and just-sweet-enough complement to savory flavors.