Waldorf Salad Recipe is a perfect blend of crisp fruits, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing, making it a classic that never goes out of style. Originally created in the late 19th century, this salad continues to win hearts with its refreshing flavors and impressive nutritional value. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a quick snack, or an elegant side dish for your dinner table, the Waldorf Salad Recipe is a versatile option that fits every occasion.
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. With nutrient-rich ingredients like apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts, the Waldorf Salad Recipe provides a satisfying combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats. The creamy dressing—whether made with mayonnaise or yogurt—adds a velvety texture while keeping the dish wholesome and balanced.
In this recipe, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of creating this timeless dish, including tips for customizing it to suit your taste preferences. Alongside, you’ll find a detailed calorie breakdown for every ingredient, making it easier to enjoy this salad while staying mindful of your dietary goals. The Waldorf Salad Recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a delightful experience of taste and nourishment!
Ingredients for waldorf salad recipe
- Apples (2 large, ~400g)
- Calories: ~190 calories
- Red Seedless Grapes (1 cup, ~150g)
- Calories: ~62 calories
- Celery (1 cup, ~100g)
- Calories: ~14 calories
- Walnuts (1/2 cup, ~60g)
- Calories: ~200 calories
- Raisins (1/4 cup, ~40g)(Optional)
- Calories: ~108 calories
- Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup, ~120g)
- Calories: ~100 calories
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, ~15g)
- Calories: ~4 calories
- Honey (1 teaspoon, ~7g)(Optional)
- Calories: ~21 calories
- Salt and Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon each)
- Calories: 0 calories
Instruction for waldorf salad recipe
1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, begin by washing and preparing the fresh ingredients.
- Apples: Core and dice 2 large apples into bite-sized pieces. Not only do apples provide natural sweetness, but they also contribute ~190 calories while adding dietary fiber.
- Grapes: Next, slice 1 cup of red seedless grapes in half. Grapes enhance the salad with their juicy texture and add ~62 calories.
- Celery: Then, chop 1 cup of celery into thin slices. This low-calorie ingredient (only ~14 calories) adds a refreshing crunch to the dish.
2: Toast the Walnuts
Meanwhile, toast 1/2 cup of walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. This simple step enhances the nuts’ flavor and adds a rich aroma to the salad. Walnuts contribute ~200 calories and are a great source of healthy fats. Be sure to let them cool before tossing them into the salad.
3: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (~100 calories) for a creamy base.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (~4 calories) to add a tangy brightness and prevent the apples from browning.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, ~21 calories) to add a hint of sweetness, especially if you prefer a slightly sweeter salad.
- Salt and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon each) to balance the flavors.
The yogurt dressing is lighter than traditional mayonnaise, making the dish healthier yet equally delicious.
4: Assemble the Salad
Now that all the components are ready, combine them in a large mixing bowl:
- Start by tossing the apples, grapes, and celery together.
- Then, add the toasted walnuts and 1/4 cup raisins (optional, ~108 calories) for a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- Finally, pour the dressing over the mixture. Gently toss everything until the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the salad with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper (1 calorie) for added flavor. Serve chilled for the best experience.
Calorie Breakdown
For those mindful of their calorie intake, here is the total breakdown:
- Apples: ~190 calories
- Grapes: ~62 calories
- Celery: ~14 calories
- Walnuts: ~200 calories
- Raisins (optional): ~108 calories
- Greek Yogurt: ~100 calories
- Lemon Juice: ~4 calories
- Honey (optional): ~21 calories
Total Calories Without Optional Ingredients: ~570 calories
Total Calories With Optional Ingredients (Raisins and Honey): ~699 calories
Why It Works
Undoubtedly, the Waldorf Salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Here’s why:
- Nutritional Balance: The salad contains healthy fats from walnuts, fiber-rich fruits, and protein-packed Greek yogurt, making it both nourishing and satisfying.
- Flavor Harmony: Sweet, tangy, and nutty notes combine beautifully, ensuring every bite is delightful.
- Customizable: For those seeking a lower-calorie version, simply omit the optional raisins and honey without compromising on taste.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Waldorf Salad remains a go-to dish for anyone seeking a nutritious and flavorful meal. Not only does it cater to a variety of dietary preferences, but it also provides a perfect balance of macronutrients. Whether served as a light lunch or a festive side dish, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, with its detailed calorie breakdown, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your health goals.
So why not give this classic a try today? The combination of crisp apples, juicy grapes, and toasted walnuts, all tied together with creamy yogurt dressing, is sure to leave you coming back for more.