Waldorf Salad

The Waldorf Salad is one of those salads that have stood the test of time. Originally created in the late 1800s at the Waldorf Astoria, this iconic dish has remained a crowd-pleaser for well over a century.

With summer around the corner, many people turn to salads for a refreshing afternoon meal. Nowadays, it is common to add protein to the salad. We love adding boiled eggs as it complements all the flavours of the salad. Other protein options include grilled chicken breast, roasted chickpeas.

Traditionally, Waldorf salad uses Walnuts, however, you can also use pecan nuts or almonds. Alternatively, you can skip the nuts altogether.

And, when you take crunchy apples, sweet raisins, crisp lettuce and add mayonnaise, you will have the perfect combination of texture and tanginess. It is for this reason that Waldorf salad is different to other salads. And, if you’re a huge fan of mayonnaise like me, then you’re going to love this Waldorf Salad.

Ingredients

Green Apple, Raisins, Baby Red Bell Peppers, Spring onions, Lettuce, Mayonnaise, Boiled Eggs.

Fresh green apples are preferred for this salad. In fact, the crunchier, the better. Raisins are dried grapes, and the golden raisins are softer and chewier in texture. Baby red bell peppers have a fruity taste, you can also use the large red bell peppers as an alternative. Spring onions add a fresh taste to the salad. Oak leaf lettuce was used in this recipe, however, you can use Romaine, Iceberg, Green Leaf or Little Gem in its place.

We used homemade mayonnaise salad dressing in this recipe, however, you can use store-bought to make the Waldorf salad dressing. Finally, Hard boiled eggs were used to add extra protein. However, chicken breasts will also enhance this salad.

Also, some people like to use thick Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, so if that is something you would prefer to do, go ahead. You can flavour the Greek yogurt with a grated piece of garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice and salt to add more flavour.

Instructions

Boil the Eggs: Boil the eggs for approximately 12 minutes in a pot of water. Add salt to the water, it will make the process of peeling the eggs easier. Drain the hot water, and add cold water to the boiled eggs. Wait for five minutes until the eggs have cooled, then crack the eggs. Slice the eggs.

Prepare the ingredients: Wash all of the vegetables. Start by chopping the green apple into cubes. Slice the baby red bell peppers and celery. Cut the spring onions into small pieces. Rinse the golden raisins.

Mix the ingredients: Add the boiled eggs to the bowl, add the red bell peppers, golden raisins, grapes, walnuts and spring onions. Add the mayonnaise and mix the salad gently. Serve immediately.

What to Serve with the Waldorf Salad?

This salad pairs with a number of different dishes which makes it a great additional to many meals. If you’re leaving out the boiled eggs, consider this Baked chicken recipe as a perfect alternative. Another option is a Charcuterie board with a variety of cheese, crackers, olives and more. For a more wholesome approach, this warm and Creamy tomato soup will also pair beautifully with the Waldorf salad.

How to Store the Waldorf Salad?

Once prepared, make sure to immediately refrigerate the Waldorf salad. Storing in an airtight container will ensure that the salad lasts for approximately two days. If you want to ensure that the green apples remain green and crunchy, add a little lemon juice to slow down the oxidation process. Lastly, this salad cannot be added to the freezer.