Classic Waldorf Salad

Classic Waldorf Salad is an iconic dish that celebrates the fresh, crunchy, and vibrant flavors of fruits and vegetables. This delightful salad combines the sweetness of apples with the crispness of celery and the richness of walnuts, all brought together by a light dressing that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s a recipe that exemplifies the beauty of simplicity in cooking. In this Step-by-Step guide, not only will we uncover the layers of flavors in Waldorf Salad, but you’ll understand why this classic dish deserves a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Waldorf Salad is effortless to prepare, making it ideal for a busy family or for impressing guests with minimal effort. The ingredients come together quickly, allowing you to enjoy the preparation without the stress. It’s a family-friendly salad that even kids will enjoy, thanks to the sweet apples and crunchy textures. This dish honors tradition while being versatile enough for contemporary dining. With ingredients that are easily accessible, you can whip up this classic any time of the year.

Ingredients for Classic Waldorf Salad

For your Classic Waldorf Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups diced tart apples: These juicy fruit pieces burst with flavor, bringing a refreshing sweetness to the dish.
1 tablespoon sugar: A hint of sweetness to enhance the natural flavors of the apples.
2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds a zesty kick while preventing the apples from browning.
1 cup diced celery: The celery gives a satisfying crunch and a slight earthiness.
1 cup grapes, halved: Their juicy texture complements the salad beautifully.
1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped: Adds a nutty flavor and a great crunch.
1/2 cup whipping cream, whipped: This creates a creamy texture that envelops all the ingredients.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Enhances the creaminess and brings everything together.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: A balance of flavors that deepens the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Directions for Classic Waldorf Salad

Creating your Classic Waldorf Salad is easy and fun! Start by adding the diced apples to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the sugar and lemon juice over the apples, tossing them gently to coat. This not only adds sweetness but also prevents the apples from oxidizing. Next, fold in the diced celery, halved grapes, and roughly chopped nuts, combining everything with care to maintain the texture.

In another bowl, whip the whipping cream until soft peaks begin to form. This creaminess will perfectly contrast with the crunchy elements of your salad. Gently fold in the mayonnaise until fully integrated, and then unite the whipped cream mixture with the apple and vegetable medley. Finally, season with kosher salt to taste, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.

Cover your salad and chill in the refrigerator for one hour or overnight for a more harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it by itself or on crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant presentation.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Waldorf Salad, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture for warmth. For a touch of gourmet flair, you can include dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, which will enhance the sweetness and texture.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try substituting Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise in the dressing. This not only decreases the calorie count but boosts the protein content as well.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

To make your table more inviting, serve the Classic Waldorf Salad in individual lettuce cups or on colorful plates. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it the perfect side for a summer barbecue or a dinner party. For a lighter meal, consider serving it with whole-grain crackers or a slice of rustic bread to enhance the overall experience.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Classic Waldorf Salad contains about:

Calories: 240
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 19g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 3g

While this salad is undeniably delicious, enjoy it as an occasional indulgence due to the creamy dressing and nut content.

Storing Tips & Variations for Classic Waldorf Salad

If you have leftovers, store your Classic Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two days. However, keep in mind that the apples may lose their crispness over time.

For variations, you could try using different nuts such as almonds or pistachios for a unique flavor profile. Alternatively, swap the grapes for berries or chopped peaches depending on what’s in season.

Conclusion for Classic Waldorf Salad

Now that you have the essentials to prepare Classic Waldorf Salad, it’s time to try your hand at this delightful recipe. Bursting with crunchy textures and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. Gather your ingredients and embrace the art of salad-making today!

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add fruits like pears or mandarin oranges for a different flavor.

2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

3. How long does Classic Waldorf Salad last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

4. Can I make Classic Waldorf Salad vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise and whipped cream with vegan alternatives like plant-based yogurt and cream.

5. What can I use instead of walnuts?
Feel free to use any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

Classic Waldorf Salad

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing salad combining tart apples, crunchy celery, and rich walnuts, enveloped in a creamy dressing.

Instructions

Add the diced apples to a large mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the sugar and lemon juice over the apples, tossing them gently to coat.
Fold in the diced celery, halved grapes, and roughly chopped nuts.
In another bowl, whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form.
Gently fold in the mayonnaise until fully integrated.
Unite the whipped cream mixture with the apple and vegetable medley.
Season with kosher salt to taste and blend well.
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for one hour or overnight.
Serve on crisp lettuce leaves if desired.