If you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, then Waldorf Salad is the perfect choice. With its tangy zip from the lemon juice, crisp apples, crunchy nuts, and the creamy mayo dressing, this salad is both effortless to assemble and a true crowd-pleaser. This particular recipe comes from Chuck Hinz in Parma, Ohio, who knows the value of a delicious and easy-to-make salad. Once you try this Waldorf Salad, you’ll understand why it has become a beloved classic.
Waldorf Salad is believed to have originated at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City, which later became the renowned Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The credit for inventing this iconic salad goes to the hotel’s maitre d’hotel, Oscar Tschirky. The original version of the salad did not include walnuts, which were later added to enhance the crunch and flavor profile.
The Waldorf-Astoria Hotel has been a household name across America for over a century, known not only for its Art Deco grandeur but also for its exquisite cuisine. The Waldorf Salad has remained a staple on menus and in homes, loved for its simplicity and delicious combination of ingredients.
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 MIN.
MAKES: 9 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
- 2 medium Red Delicious apples, chopped
- 2 medium Golden Delicious apples, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- Ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped Red Delicious and Golden Delicious apples with lemon juice. The lemon juice will prevent the apples from browning and add a tangy flavor to the salad.
- Gently stir in the chopped celery, chopped walnuts, raisins, and mayonnaise. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.
- If desired, sprinkle the salad with a pinch of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg. These spices add a warm and aromatic touch to the salad.
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the Waldorf Salad until serving.
- Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and enhances its refreshing quality.
- Serve:
- Once chilled, the Waldorf Salad is ready to be served.
- Scoop the salad onto individual plates or a serving dish.
- Alternatively, you can serve the salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
- The Waldorf Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side with a variety of meals or as a light and satisfying lunch option on its own.
CONCLUSION
- With its refreshing and crisp flavors, Waldorf Salad is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by salad enthusiasts around the world. The combination of chopped apples, celery, walnuts, and raisins, dressed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is effortless to assemble and is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, chop those apples, and indulge in the delightful simplicity of Waldorf Salad.
