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Classic Waldorf Salad

Crisp apples, celery, and walnuts are tossed in a light, creamy dressing for a refreshing side salad that pairs well with any meal.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 0 minCook time
🍽 6Servings
🏷 Side DishCategory
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The Waldorf salad was created in 1893 at New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel by maître d’hôtel Oscar Tschirky, originally consisting simply of apples, celery, and mayonnaise, with walnuts added later. It became a fixture of American dinner menus throughout the 20th century, prized for its crisp, refreshing crunch.

Crisp, sweet, and refreshingly crunchy

Crisp apples, celery, and walnuts are tossed in a light, creamy dressing for a refreshing side salad that pairs well with any meal.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Combine the apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a large bowl.
  3. Whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, and honey.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
  5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Serve cold.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Toasting the walnuts beforehand adds a deeper, richer flavor to the salad. Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook0 min
Servings6
CategorySide Dish
PublishedAugust 12, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →