Waldorf Salad Recipe
Overview:
This Waldorf Salad recipe is a delightful combination of crisp apples, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise dressing, with a hint of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. It’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a light and satisfying snack. With its low protein and low cholesterol content, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this classic salad that’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire!
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1/2 cup | Mayonnaise |
1 tbsp | Lemon juice |
2 | Apples |
2 stalks | Celery |
1/2 cup | Nuts (pecans or walnuts) |
Optional | Handful of dried cherries or cranberries |
Optional | Pineapple chunks |
Instructions:
-
Prepare Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
-
Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash the apples and celery under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Core the apples and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the celery stalks into small, uniform pieces.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the diced apples, celery, and nuts to the bowl with the dressing.
- For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider adding a handful of dried cherries or cranberries.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
-
Mix and Chill:
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
-
Serve:
- Once chilled, give the salad a final stir to redistribute the dressing.
- Transfer the Waldorf Salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a slice of fresh lemon, if desired.
-
Enjoy:
- Serve the Waldorf Salad chilled as a side dish or a light meal.
- It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.
- Share this delightful salad with family and friends, and savor the crisp, refreshing flavors with every bite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 178.4
- Fat: 12.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Cholesterol: 5.1mg
- Sodium: 226.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 16.5g
- Fiber: 2.7g
- Sugar: 8.4g
- Protein: 2.4g
Tips and Variations:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the Waldorf Salad a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to develop even further.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the salad according to your taste preferences. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more fruits or balance the flavors with a touch of honey or maple syrup.
- Substitutions: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can make substitutions as needed. Use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. Swap out the nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free version.
- Presentation: For an elegant presentation, serve the Waldorf Salad in hollowed-out apple halves or on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. Sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Enjoy it as a quick and nutritious snack or add it to your lunchbox for a tasty midday meal.
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this Waldorf Salad recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing a picnic, or simply enjoying a weekday meal, this refreshing salad is bound to please everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowlful of crunchy goodness! 🍏🥗