Creamy Waldorf Apple Salad

This Creamy Waldorf Salad has become my signature side for potlucks and holiday dinners Fresh apples grapes pineapple and crunchy nuts tossed with a tangy poppy seed dressing create a unique balance of sweet juicy and crisp flavors With every bite you get creamy freshness and a mix of textures that keep everyone coming back for seconds

The first time I made this salad was for Thanksgiving with my family and nobody could stop talking about it Now my kids beg for it for summer picnics and winter holidays alike

Ingredients

• Apples: Add sweetness and crunch Choose firm crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Gala and wash well before dicing
• Grapes: Bring juicy bursts and color I usually go for red seedless but green works well too Slice in half for easy bites
• Pineapple: Gives a tropical twist Use fresh if you can find it or drain canned pineapple well to avoid extra liquid
• Celery: Fresh sliced celery adds a savory crunch and brightens each bite
• Mayonnaise: A little mayo gives that classic creamy texture Go for your trusted brand with rich flavor
• Greek Yogurt: Boosts creaminess with extra tang and protein Use full fat for the best texture
• Sugar: Just a bit to balance the tang You can swap in honey or maple syrup to taste
• Poppy Seeds: Subtle nutty crunch and a classic finish If you skip these the salad still shines
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings brightness and a gentle herbal note Always go for fresh when possible
• Lemon Juice: Keeps fruits from browning and adds a bright snap Fresh squeezed brings the best flavor
• Nuts: Walnuts or pecans both work for crunch and a nutty finish Toast them lightly for extra depth
• Lemon Zest: Totally optional but adds floral undertones and freshness Avoid the bitter white pith if zesting
• Lettuce: Bibb is traditional and acts as a crisp bed for serving any leafy lettuce is fine or skip for a simpler presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Fruit and Veggies:

Wash apples grapes and celery Dice the apples into bite sized cubes slice celery thinly and cut grapes in half Add all to a large mixing bowl

Add Pineapple:

Cut fresh pineapple into small chunks or add well drained canned pineapple Stir into the fruit and veggie mixture

Make the Creamy Dressing:

In a separate small bowl whisk together mayonnaise Greek yogurt sugar poppy seeds and lemon juice until smooth Taste and adjust the sugar or lemon juice if needed

Mix and Coat:

Pour the dressing over the chopped fruit and veggies Gently toss everything together so every piece is coated but try not to mash the fruit

Add Nuts and Parsley:

Stir in half of your chopped nuts and most of the parsley Save the rest for topping

Finish and Garnish:

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl Sprinkle the remaining nuts parsley and lemon zest on top for color and aroma

Serve Chilled on Lettuce:

If serving soon line your platter or bowls with lettuce leaves Spoon salad over them and serve immediately For best results chill covered for up to one hour before serving

Bookmark

The Greek yogurt is my favorite swap for heavy mayonnaise It feels lighter and lets the fruit shine My mom always added extra celery and it brings back memories of us prepping together for family dinners

Storage Tips

Store leftover Waldorf salad in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator It stays crisp and flavorful for up to three days The flavors blend and deepen after a night in the fridge Sometimes I think it tastes even better the second day For best texture avoid freezing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have poppy seeds try chia or sesame for a similar bite Feel free to try pears instead of apples if that is what is in your fruit bowl Pecans make a delicious substitute for walnuts Maple syrup or honey works perfectly if you do not have granulated sugar

Serving Suggestions

Waldorf salad shines on a holiday table next to roast turkey or glazed ham It makes a satisfying and wholesome lunch all on its own I sometimes top it with cold rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quick protein packed meal It is also a fun side for creamy pasta dishes or barbecue dinners

Bookmark

A Bit of Recipe History

Waldorf salad was first served in New York City at the legendary Waldorf Astoria hotel back in the late 1800s The original version only had apples celery and mayo Over time creative cooks dressed it up with grapes pineapple nuts and more My version is built on these traditions with a few family twists

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What ingredients are essential for a Waldorf salad?

Key ingredients include apples, grapes, celery, pineapple, walnuts or pecans, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, poppy seeds, and lemon juice. Fresh parsley and Bibb lettuce are often added for flavor and presentation.

→ Can I customize the fruits or nuts in Waldorf salad?

Absolutely! Use your preferred types of apples, swap red or green grapes, and choose between walnuts, pecans, or even add dried fruits like cranberries or dates for a twist.

→ How is the creamy dressing prepared?

The dressing combines mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey or sugar, poppy seeds, and lemon juice. Simply whisk together until smooth, then toss with the fruit and vegetables.

→ What proteins work well with this salad?

Diced or shredded chicken, bacon, or ham complement the sweet and tangy flavors, making it a satisfying meal option.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store Waldorf salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, but the salad is best chilled and enjoyed within this period.

→ Is Bibb lettuce required?

While Bibb lettuce is traditional as a serving base, it's optional. You can enjoy the salad on its own or spoon it onto any fresh greens of your choice.