WALDORF SALAD
An Irresistible Twist on Waldorf Salad
Imagine the crisp bite of apples, the juicy burst of grapes, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts all brought together in a creamy, sweet dressing. This Waldorf Salad, a beloved classic, has been reimagined with a twist, replacing the traditional mayo with velvety vanilla yogurt. It’s a delightful side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Waldorf Salad offers a refreshing take on a classic dish. You’ll love how the sweetness of vanilla yogurt complements the tangy apples and juicy grapes, while the crunch from walnuts and celery adds a delightful texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser, even for those who typically shy away from mayonnaise-based salads.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 4 Apples, cored and diced (2 Granny Smith, 2 Gala)
- 3 stalks Celery, chopped
- 1 cup Red Grapes, halved
- 1 cup Green Grapes, halved
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
- 3/4 cup Walnuts
- 12 oz Vanilla Yogurt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the diced apples, chopped celery, and halved grapes to a large mixing bowl.
- Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the fruit and stir to coat. This helps to prevent browning and adds a nice tangy flavor.
- Add the dried cranberries, walnuts, and vanilla yogurt to the bowl.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for Success
- For the best texture, use fresh, crisp apples and celery.
- Halve the grapes to ensure they’re bite-sized and blend well with the other ingredients.
- Chill the salad for a couple of hours to enhance the flavors and achieve the perfect cool, creamy texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding a handful of mini marshmallows for a sweet twist that kids will love.
- Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet dressing, use plain yogurt and add a touch of honey.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This Waldorf Salad is a nutritious choice, packed with fiber from the fruits and nuts, and offers a good source of vitamins A and C. The vanilla yogurt provides a creamy texture while keeping the dish light and refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of vanilla yogurt?
If you prefer, you can use plain yogurt mixed with a tablespoon of honey or a touch of vanilla extract.
Is there a substitute for walnuts?
Pecans or almonds make great alternatives to walnuts if you have a preference or allergy.
Conclusion
This revamped Waldorf Salad is sure to become a new favorite at your holiday table. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it an irresistible side dish. I invite you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts or any variations you tried!
