Dessert

Waldorf Salad Recipe

ByClara Bennett November 24, 2025November 24, 2025

Introduction

The classic Waldorf Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp apples, celery, grapes, and toasted walnuts tossed in a creamy, honey-sweetened dressing. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal.

A white bowl filled with a colorful fruit salad containing three main layers: the bottom layer has green apple chunks and celery pieces with a smooth texture, the middle layer has round red and green grapes with a shiny, smooth surface, and the top layer is sprinkled with light brown chopped walnuts adding a rough texture, all mixed gently with creamy dressing. A wooden spoon is placed inside the bowl on the right side, partially covered by the salad. Around the bowl on a white marbled surface are scattered walnut bits, a halved lemon showing its bright yellow juicy interior, a green apple, a red apple, and a few loose grapes. A white and blue-striped cloth is on the left with a silver spoon resting on it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup chopped granny smith apple
1 cup chopped sweet apple (Fuji, Cosmic Crisp, Red Delicious, or Ambrosia)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
1 cup diced celery
1 cup halved green seedless grapes
1 cup halved red seedless grapes
1 cup toasted and chopped walnuts
3 tablespoons heavy cream
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon strained honey

Instructions

Step 1: Add the chopped apples to a large bowl. Drizzle the lemon juice over them and stir well to coat completely, preventing browning and adding a fresh bite.
Step 2: Add the diced celery, halved green and red grapes, and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and honey until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and heavy cream.
Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds to vary the crunch and flavor.
Add raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of extra sweetness and texture.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and to keep apples from browning.

Storage

Store the Waldorf Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad tastes best when fresh, but chilling helps the flavors blend. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change.

How to Serve

A white shallow bowl filled with a fresh fruit and nut salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main visible layers: the bottom layer is a mix of green and red halved grapes, the middle layer includes diced red apple pieces with skin on and chopped light green celery, and the top layer is a creamy dressing coating the salad along with small pieces of chopped walnuts scattered throughout. Around the bowl, there are loose grape halves, walnut pieces, and a whole red apple. To the right, a wooden spoon holds a small serving of the same salad. A white cloth with thin gray stripes is partially visible on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Waldorf Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness and crispness.

What can I serve with Waldorf Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, turkey sandwiches, or as part of a light brunch spread. It also works as a refreshing side for barbecue or picnic meals.