Introduction
Waldorf Salad is a classic dish known for its refreshing blend of fruits, nuts, and vegetables. This delightful salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your main meal. With a tangy dressing that brings all the flavors together, this recipe from Love and Lemons showcases the best of this beloved salad.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
¼ cup whole milk Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
¾ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), chopped
2 cups thinly sliced celery (3 to 4 ribs), plus celery leaves for garnish
1 cup grapes, halved
1 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted and chopped
⅔ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper until smooth.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients
Add the chopped apples, sliced celery, halved grapes, toasted and chopped walnuts or pecans, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Season and Serve
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Transfer the salad to a serving platter and garnish with additional parsley and celery leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Choices
Use tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast.
Nut Options
Walnuts or pecans can be used interchangeably; both add a delicious crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is ideal as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish for various meals.
Storage Information
Waldorf Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The apples may brown slightly, so consider adding lemon juice to the apple pieces if preparing in advance.
Cook Techniques
Whisking
Whisking is the technique used for combining ingredients to create a smooth dressing. This involves vigorously mixing the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until all components are well incorporated.
Chopping
Chopping involves cutting the apples, celery, and fresh parsley into small, uniform pieces. This technique not only enhances the presentation of the salad but also ensures that each bite contains a balanced mix of flavors.
Slicing
Slicing is used for preparing the celery and halving the grapes. This technique ensures that the celery has a crisp texture and the grapes are easy to eat, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the salad.
Toasting
Toasting nuts like walnuts or pecans enhances their flavor and adds a crunchy texture to the salad. This technique involves cooking the nuts in a dry skillet until they are golden brown and fragrant, ensuring maximum flavor.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the final touch that enhances the presentation of the Waldorf Salad. Using additional parsley and celery leaves not only adds color but also freshness to the finished dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative, depending on your dietary preferences.
How long can I store Waldorf Salad?
Waldorf Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh as the apples may brown over time.
What can I substitute for nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can omit them or replace them with seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Can I add protein to the salad?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for added protein, making it more filling for a complete meal.
Is there a vegetarian option for the dressing?
The dressing in this recipe is already vegetarian, using yogurt and mayonnaise as the base. Ensure that the mayonnaise is egg-free if you prefer a vegan option.
Conclusion
The Waldorf Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a refreshing choice for any meal. The combination of tart apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted nuts, all enhanced by a creamy dressing, delivers a nutritious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a light snack, a full lunch, or a vibrant side dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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