Quick & Easy Waldorf Salad Recipe – Perfect for Thanksgiving

Classic Waldorf Salad Recipe in 15 Minutes

Thanksgiving gatherings at Aunt Gert’s always felt special, filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and an unmistakable sense of tradition. Aunt Gert’s Waldorf salad claimed a distinct place among the many dishes on her table.

She served it proudly every year as a refreshing contrast to the heavier, more traditional Thanksgiving fare. The salad, with its crisp apples, crunchy celery, and juicy grapes mixed into a creamy dressing and garnished with walnuts, brightened the meal with a delightful freshness.

Aunt Gert knew exactly how to make it just right, balancing the sweetness and crunch with each ingredient prepared to perfection. Over time, this Waldorf salad became an essential part of our Thanksgiving experience, symbolizing both the holiday and Aunt Gert’s warmth and hospitality.

The dish embodied her spirit—it was simple, inviting, and memorable. Sharing it at the Thanksgiving table went beyond tradition; it offered a way to savor memories and keep her legacy alive with every cherished bite.

What Is a Waldorf Salad?

A Waldorf salad is a classic American dish made with fresh apples, celery, and grapes tossed in a creamy dressing and typically garnished with walnuts. The Waldorf Hotel in New York City (now the Waldorf-Astoria) first created it in the 1890s, and it quickly became a favorite.

The dressing usually has a mayonnaise base, though some variations use yogurt or sour cream for a lighter texture. The salad delights with its refreshing combination of flavors and textures: the sweetness and crunch of apples, the juicy pop of grapes, the crisp celery, and the rich nuttiness of walnuts.

While some recipes add variations like dried fruits, citrus zest, or even greens like romaine or lettuce, the traditional Waldorf salad remains a simple yet elegant side dish. Its well-loved reputation as both a light appetizer and a contrasting side to heavier meals has made it a popular choice for Thanksgiving and other holiday feasts.

Five Fund Facts

1. Created in the 1890s: Oscar Tschirky, the maître d'hôtel at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, first created the Waldorf salad. It was initially served at a charity ball in 1896 and became an instant hit.
2. No lettuce in the original: The original Waldorf salad recipe, which only included apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts, did not include lettuce. It wasn’t until later versions that lettuce was added as a base.
3. Famous guest appearances: The Waldorf salad symbolized luxury and sophistication over the years, often served at high-profile events and parties. It became one of the most famous dishes of early 20th-century New York.
4. A twist on the traditional: Many variations of the Waldorf salad exist today, with additions like chicken, turkey, or yogurt replacing mayonnaise. Some even include other fruits like pineapple or pomegranate for a unique twist.
5. A Thanksgiving staple: The Waldorf salad has become a beloved dish at holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving, where it offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory dishes traditionally served.

📖 Recipe

Print Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Waldorf Salad

A classic American salad often served on Thanksgiving

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Chill time20 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: salad

Ingredients

• 2 large apples a mix of sweet and tart, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, cored and diced
• 1 cup red seedless grapes halved
• 1 cup celery thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts roughly chopped and lightly toasted
• ½ cup mayonnaise or half mayo and half Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice to prevent the apples from browning and add brightness
• 1 tablespoon honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Combine the diced apples, halved grapes, sliced celery, and toasted walnuts in a large bowl.
• Whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl.
• Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lemon juice or salt if needed.
• Chill the salad for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This salad offers a crisp, creamy bite with just the right amount of crunch and sweetness—a perfect, refreshing side for holiday meals or any occasion.

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