Waldorf Salad Recipe (One Bowl)

Quick and easy Waldorf salad recipe with grapes, apples, celery, walnuts, mayonnaise. A traditional classic salad from 1800's and made in one bowl.

This creamy and fruity salad might truly be one of the best Summer salads ever. It was first developed in the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York in 1893 and the original recipe did not have any grapes or walnuts. Those were added later as this salad gained popularity.

It's served on a bed of lettuce and has subtle crunch from walnuts. Usually, whole walnuts are used but I like to use chopped walnuts because they are easier to eat. I usually serve it as a side dish but I have also served it as mini individual appetizers and I love to enjoy leftovers as a deliciously light snack. If you enjoy this one you will also like this Creamy Grape Salad (One Bowl).

Key ingredients

• Mayonnaise- Brings in that traditional creamy taste.
• Lemon juice- Adds a balancing citrus tang.
• Salt and pepper- Balances out flavors nicely and adds flavor.
• Apples- Use cored, roughly chopped red and green apples.
• Red grapes- Be sure to get crispy, fresh ones.
• Celery- Thin slices work best.
• Walnuts- Brings in that classic nutty flavor with a crunch.
• Lettuce leaves- Used for placing the mixture on and serving.

Variations

• Add cranberries- Simply mix in ⅓ cup dried cranberries.
• Healthy version- Substitute mayonnaise with full fat Greek yogurt. However, it will add a bit of a tangy flavor. It can be adjusted with honey or powdered sugar.
• Use broccoli- Mix in 1 cup of fresh, chopped broccoli. This is similar to my Broccoli Salad Recipe (One Bowl).
• Make it sweeter- By using whipped cream, cream cheese, powdered sugar, or even mini marshmallows.
• Add chicken- It would be easy to use leftover Instant Pot Whole Chicken (Rotisserie Chicken) cut into small chunks.

How to Make traditional Waldorf salad?

1. Mix in a salad bowl- The mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add in- The apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts and then mix again.
3. Cover and refrigerate- Until ready to serve.  
4. Serve- On a bed of fresh lettuce and enjoy. 

What to serve with apple Waldorf salad?

This is often served as a side, so you will want a main dish to go alongside it. I suggest adding a main protein, such as Slow Cooker Ham, Roast Turkey Breast, or Easy pot roast recipe. Another option that pairs well with salad is a sandwich like this Loose Meat Sandwich (Tavern Sandwich) or Instant Pot French Dip Sandwich. Of course, pasta and salad go together like peaches and cream, so Crockpot Chicken Alfredo or Butter Garlic Chicken Pasta (One Pot) are great choices, too.

Tips and techniques

• Use full fat mayonnaise- Because this will give the maximum creaminess. You can also add more to make it even more creamy.
• To prevent the salad from becoming too “watery”- Pat the apples and grapes dry with paper towels.
• Toast the walnuts- Because this helps to enhance the “nutty” flavor.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice- Based on your preference.
• Make it for a crowd- And easily double the recipe to serve more people.
• Choose the best quality fruit- For the best quality in flavor and texture.

Recipe FAQs

Storage

• Make ahead- This can be made up to 2 days a before serving if kept in the fridge in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate- Place in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. 
• Freeze- Not recommended, because the water content in the vegetables is high and will wilt when thawed.

Other salad recipes

• Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint (One Bowl)
• Cherry Tomato Salad (One Bowl)
• Italian Tortellini Salad (One Bowl)
• Creamy Pea Salad (One Bowl)
• Apple Salad (One Pot)

Recipe