The Waldorf Salad, named after the iconic Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, has been a beloved dish since its creation in 1896.
Originally consisting of just apples, celery, and mayonnaise, this salad has evolved over time to include additional ingredients that enhance its flavor and texture.
Here, we’ll explore a modern take on this classic recipe, incorporating fresh herbs and a lighter dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), chopped into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1 cup diced celery (about 3 to 4 ribs), plus celery leaves for garnish
- 1 cup toasted walnuts or pecans, chopped
- ⅔ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup whole milk Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the apples into roughly 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces.
- Halve the grapes.
- Thinly slice the celery stalks, reserving the leaves.
- Toast the nuts and then chop them.
- Finely chop the parsley.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine the Salad:
- Add the chopped apples, grapes, celery, walnuts, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
- Stir gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Garnish with additional parsley and celery leaves.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a few hours before serving.
Variations
- Classic Version: For a more traditional taste, use only mayonnaise as the dressing and omit the Greek yogurt and honey.
- Holiday Twist: Add mini marshmallows for a sweet and festive touch, perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
- Fruitful Addition: Include dried cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness and tartness.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This version of the Waldorf Salad offers a refreshing twist by incorporating Greek yogurt and lemon juice into the dressing, making it lighter and more vibrant. The addition of parsley adds a fresh herbal note, while the toasted nuts provide a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish for a special occasion, this Waldorf Salad is sure to delight.
