Best Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad is a fan favorite that has earned its place on every good lunch menu. This fruity concoction was first made in The Waldorf Hotel in New York City over a century ago and since then has become a staple in restaurants, country clubs, and Southern homes.

Our best Waldorf salad combines fresh celery, Granny Smith and Gala apples, seedless grapes, raisins, and pecans for a light, fruity dish. After these fresh ingredients are chopped and mixed with mayo, you can eat them right out of the bowl or serve them over a bed of crisp lettuce.

While the recipe calls to dress the salad with mayonnaise, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if preferred. This salad is truly fit for any occasion but is most enjoyable in the summer heat or in the fall when crisp apples are in season.

Learn how to make Waldorf salad, and enjoy this classic fruit dish once again.

The History of the Waldorf Salad

This classic American dish was first created in the late 1890s or early 1900s at the Waldorf Hotel, later known as the Waldorf-Astoria when The Waldorf Hotel and The Astoria Hotel merged.

Originally the salad was composed of apples, celery, and mayonnaise for a simple appetizer or side. As the dish gained popularity and began to be featured in cookbooks and on restaurant menus around the country, variations with grapes, walnuts, and even lettuce in the mix began to emerge. This salad has evolved to become known as an iconic dish for its simplicity and harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients for the Best Waldorf Salad

Apples, grapes, pecans, celery, raisins, and mayonnaise come together for a celebration of fresh flavors and textures. To make the best Waldorf salad, you'll need:

• Gala apples: For a crisp texture and sweet flavor. You can swap in other varieties of firm, sweet apples if preferred.
• Granny Smith apple: For a firm texture and tart flavor to contrast the sweetness of the Gala apples and grapes.
• Seedless green grapes: A juicy, sweet addition to the salad.
• Pecans: Adds a nutty crunch. Toast for a crisp texture.
• Celery: For a refreshing crunch and savory flavor.
• Raisins: Adds a chewy texture and even more sweetness in the dish.
• Mayonnaise: Serves as the creamy dressing for the salad. Swap with Greek yogurt if preferred.
  

How To Make the Best Waldorf Salad

Making a Waldorf salad couldn't be easier. This seemingly sophisticated side dish needs only a quick toss to come together. Once the apples and celery are diced, the grapes halved, and the pecans chopped, toss with raisins and mayonnaise and you're ready to serve.

Waldorf Salad Variations

This timeless favorite isn't steadfast in its preparation. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients as you prefer for a unique twist on this classic salad:

• Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or shredded turkey to turn this salad into a main course.
• Greens: Serve over a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a pretty presentation.
• Nuts and seeds: Swap the pecans with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
• Grapes: Swap the green grapes for red or use both for a colorful twist.
• Apples: Feel free to use any mix of apples you prefer, ideally including a tart and sweet variety for the right balance.
• Dried fruit: Swap the raisins for dried cranberries or cherries if preferred.
• Mayonnaise: Opt for part Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy, tangy dressing.
• Cheese: Add crumbled blue, goat, or feta cheese for a cheesy touch.
• Herbs: Stir in chopped dill or mint for color and freshness.
• Citrus zest: Add lemon zest for a pop of citrusy flavor.
• Grains: Add quinoa or farro to bulk up the salad.
• Bacon: Add a salty, meaty bite with crumbled bacon.

Our Tips for the Best Waldorf Salad

For the best Waldorf salad, keep these tips in mind:

• Quality ingredients: With such simple ingredients in the mix, make sure they're fresh and vibrant before using.
• Toast the nuts: Toast the pecans for a crisp, nutty texture.
• Assemble before serving: Prepare the salad right before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
• Balanced flavors: Choose apples that add a tart and sweet flavor to balance the salad.
• Uniform cutting: Make sure to cut the apples, celery, and grapes to about the same size for a bit of each ingredient with each bite.
• Serve chilled: Serve the salad cold for the best flavor and texture.

Can I Make Waldorf Salad Ahead?

While you can certainly cut and store the ingredients up to one day before serving, toss them together right before serving for best results.

How To Store Leftover Waldorf Salad

Transfer any leftovers of Waldorf salad to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Store for up to two days for the freshest flavor and texture. Toss before serving.

More Fruit-Forward Salad Recipes You'll Love

A refreshing and vibrant side, fruit-forward salad recipes are always a great way to brighten a meal.

• Creamy Grape Salad with Pecans
  
• Strawberry Caprese Salad
• Creamy Overnight Fruit Salad
• Citrus Salad with Spiced Honey
• Strawberry-Tomato Salad
• Cheesecake Fruit Salad
• Our Best Ambrosia Ever
• Fresh Fruit Salad

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.