Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe is a crisp and refreshing recipe, which includes apples and toasted walnuts. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in about 15 minutes.

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Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 medium apples (Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 4–6 leaves Bibb or Romaine lettuce
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

  1. Prep the apples: Chop the apples into bite-sized pieces and toss them with lemon juice in a large mixing bowl to prevent browning.
  2. Add celery and grapes: Slice celery and halve the grapes. Add both to the bowl with the apples.
  3. Toast the walnuts: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. Let cool, then stir into the salad.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Mix the salad: Pour the dressing over the apple mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Serve: Arrange lettuce leaves on a platter. Spoon the salad over the lettuce and serve immediately.
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • What kind of apples are best?
    Gala and Honeycrisp apples offer sweetness and crunch, but Fuji or Pink Lady work too.
  • Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, but add the walnuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
  • What’s a good mayo substitute?
    Greek yogurt or a half-and-half mix of yogurt and mayo works well for a lighter option.
  • How do I toast walnuts?
    Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant—about 2–3 minutes.
  • Can I use lettuce as a base or mix it in?
    Either works! For a more traditional presentation, serve the salad on top of whole lettuce leaves.

What To Serve With Waldorf Salad

This salad pairs well with a variety of light and fresh dishes. Try it with:

  • Grilled chicken or turkey breast
  • Tuna or egg salad sandwiches
  • Buttery croissants or baguette slices
  • Creamy soups like butternut squash or tomato basil
  • A crisp white wine or sparkling water
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

How To Store Waldorf Salad

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tip: If making ahead, store the dressing separately and combine before serving to keep the apples crisp and the walnuts crunchy.

Waldorf Salad Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings)

  • Calories: 220
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

FAQs

Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, diced chicken or turkey makes it more filling and turns it into a meal.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free mayo for a completely dairy-free option.

Can I swap walnuts for another nut?
Yes, try pecans or slivered almonds for a variation in flavor and texture.

How to keep apples from browning?
Toss chopped apples in lemon juice as soon as they’re cut.

Can I serve this without lettuce?
Absolutely! Serve in a bowl or on its own as a side or light lunch.

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Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: Salads
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

220

kcal

A fresh and crunchy salad made with apples, grapes, walnuts, and a creamy lemon dressing—perfect as a side or light lunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 apples, chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, sliced

  • 1 cup grapes, halved

  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts

  • 4–6 leaves Bibb or Romaine lettuce

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

  • Toss apples with lemon juice in a large bowl.
  • Add celery and grapes.
  • Mix mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for dressing.
  • Toast walnuts and stir them in.
  • Combine salad ingredients with dressing.
  • Serve over lettuce and enjoy.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.