Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts

Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts

Refreshing, crisp, and delightfully creamy, the Waldorf Salad is a classic American dish that never goes out of style. Born in the late 19th century at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City, it has stood the test of time — and for good reason. It’s the kind of salad that walks the line between indulgence and freshness.

In this updated version, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy celery are tossed with lightly toasted walnuts and enveloped in a luscious dressing made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and a hint of lemon. It’s vibrant and satisfying, whether served as a light lunch, appetizer, or elegant side dish.

Perfect for holiday spreads, brunch tables, or a summer picnic, this salad is more than a side — it’s a conversation starter.

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🍎 Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 2 large crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and chopped
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
• 1 cup seedless green grapes, halved
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts
• ¼ cup golden raisins (optional for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for tossing the apples)

For the creamy dressing:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Optional for serving:

• Butter lettuce or baby romaine leaves
• Additional chopped walnuts for garnish

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⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: Optional 20–30 minutes for best flavor
• Total Time: 20–50 minutes

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the fruits and nuts

Start by washing all your produce well. Core and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks. Immediately toss them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Slice the grapes in half. Thinly slice the celery. If you’re using raisins, give them a quick soak in warm water for 5 minutes to plump them, then drain.

Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. This enhances their flavor and adds a warm nuttiness. Allow to cool.

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Step 2: Make the creamy dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and a touch of black pepper. The balance of tangy and sweet in this dressing is what elevates the salad.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can make the dressing in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

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Step 3: Combine the salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, grapes, celery, raisins (if using), and walnuts.

Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to mash the fruit — you want everything well-coated but still vibrant.

At this point, you can serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Serve and garnish

For an elegant presentation, spoon the salad onto a bed of butter lettuce or into endive leaves for individual portions.

Top with a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts for crunch and a few grape halves for a fresh finish.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

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🧺 Serving Suggestions

• As a side dish: Perfect with roasted chicken, turkey, or glazed ham.
• As a light lunch: Serve in lettuce cups or as a filling for pita pockets.
• On a buffet: Pairs beautifully with charcuterie or cheese platters.
• Holiday touch: Add pomegranate seeds for color and festive flair.

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The apples may soften slightly, but the salad will still taste delicious.
• Make ahead: Prepare the salad components and dressing separately, and mix just before serving for the freshest results.

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💡 Expert Tips

• Apple choice matters: Honeycrisp adds sweetness and crunch, while Granny Smith adds a tart, firm texture. Use both for balance.
• Make it dairy-free: Use vegan mayo and coconut yogurt.
• Want more protein? Add diced roasted chicken breast or cooked quinoa.
• Make it elegant: Serve in mini cocktail glasses or small bowls with microgreens on top.

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🧠 Why You’ll Love This Salad

It’s crunchy, creamy, tangy, and sweet — everything you want in a balanced dish. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite interesting. It’s a no-cook recipe that comes together in minutes and feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Whether you’re feeding guests or treating yourself, the Waldorf Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts is a timeless classic that’s full of life and freshness — a salad that makes people go back for seconds.

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