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.
Jump to RecipeIna 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

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

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

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.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Avocado Corn Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Black Bean Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
Course: Salads6
servings15
minutes220
kcalA fresh and crunchy salad made with apples, grapes, walnuts, and a creamy lemon dressing—perfect as a side or light lunch.
Ingredients
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2 apples, chopped
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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1 cup grapes, halved
-
1/2 cup toasted walnuts
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4–6 leaves Bibb or Romaine lettuce
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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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.
