Created by Oscar Tschirky for the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York (during the 1800s), this simple salad of apples, celery, and mayonnaise was combined table-side from many elegant dinners. Later expanded to include grapes and walnuts, this salad still remains a favorite for potlucks and picnics.
Here's an updated Waldorf Salad recipe that retains its traditional charm while adding a modern twist:
Ingredients:
2 cups of mixed greens (e.g., lettuce, arugula, spinach)
2 apples, cored and diced (choose a crisp, sweet variety)
1 cup of red seedless grapes, halved
1 cup of celery, thinly sliced
1/2 cup of walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (or a vegan alternative)
1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your taste.
Toast the Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, roughly chop the walnuts.
Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apples, halved grapes, sliced celery, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries.
Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss the salad to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
Serve: Plate the salad in individual servings or on a large platter. Optionally, garnish with a few extra walnut pieces and a drizzle of honey (or maple syrup) for an extra touch of sweetness.
This updated Waldorf Salad maintains a delightful combination of crunchy, sweet, and savory elements while offering a lighter and healthier dressing option. It's a refreshing and satisfying salad that can be served as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Enjoy!
