The Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe is fresh, creamy and full of crunch. This classic salad is loved by many families. It mixes apples, grapes, nuts and a smooth dressing.
The flavors are light but rich. If you want a simple and elegant salad, this one is perfect. Learning how to make Ina Garten Waldorf Salad is very easy.
The ingredients for Ina Garten Waldorf Salad are simple and fresh. This salad works for lunches, dinners and special gatherings.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried this salad at a family lunch. Everyone loved its fresh taste. The apples were crisp and sweet. The grapes added juicy bites.
The creamy dressing tied everything together well. I liked how fast it came together. No cooking was needed.
Since then, I make it often for guests. It always looks beautiful and tastes amazing. This recipe never fails to impress people.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Waldorf Salad
- Crisp apples, diced – 2 medium
- Seedless red grapes, halved – 1 cup
- Celery, thinly sliced – ½ cup
- Walnuts, chopped – ½ cup
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Fresh lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Lettuce leaves, optional – for serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Apples
Wash and dry the apples well. Dice them into small pieces. Leave the skin on for color and crunch. Place them in a large bowl.
2. Cut the Grapes and Celery
Slice the grapes into halves. Thinly slice the celery. Add both to the bowl with apples. Mix gently using a spoon.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture. Add chopped walnuts. Gently fold everything together until well coated. Do not overmix.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and chill the salad for 15 minutes. Serve cold over lettuce leaves if desired. Enjoy fresh for best flavor.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Waldorf Salad
- Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Cut apples just before mixing to prevent browning
- Toast walnuts lightly for extra flavor
- Chill salad before serving for best taste
- Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using soft apples that lose crunch
- Adding too much dressing
- Skipping lemon juice, causing browning
- Overmixing the salad
- Using stale nuts
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Waldorf salad chilled on fresh lettuce leaves. It pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish. You can also serve it as a light lunch.
It works great at picnics, brunches and holiday tables. The colors make it look fresh and inviting.
Variations You Can Try
- Add diced chicken for extra protein
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise
- Add raisins or dried cranberries
- Try pecans instead of walnuts
- Add a touch of honey for sweetness
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store salad in an airtight container
- Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days
- Stir gently before serving again
- Do not freeze this salad
- Add fresh apples if salad sits long
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Health Benefits
This salad is full of fresh fruits and nuts. Apples provide fiber and vitamins. Grapes add antioxidants. Walnuts contain healthy fats.
When eaten in moderation, this salad supports heart health. Using fresh ingredients makes it a nourishing choice for balanced meals.
Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- Crisp apples diced – 2 medium
- Seedless red grapes halved – 1 cup
- Celery thinly sliced – ½ cup
- Walnuts chopped – ½ cup
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Fresh lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Lettuce leaves optional – for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Apples
- Wash and dry the apples well. Dice them into small pieces. Leave the skin on for color and crunch. Place them in a large bowl.
Cut the Grapes and Celery
- Slice the grapes into halves. Thinly slice the celery. Add both to the bowl with apples. Mix gently using a spoon.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Everything
- Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture. Add chopped walnuts. Gently fold everything together until well coated. Do not overmix.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl and chill the salad for 15 minutes. Serve cold over lettuce leaves if desired. Enjoy fresh for best flavor.
Notes
- Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Cut apples just before mixing to prevent browning
- Toast walnuts lightly for extra flavor
- Chill salad before serving for best taste
- Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled
FAQs about Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
What apples work best for Waldorf salad?
Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. They hold shape well and add a fresh, crunchy texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours early. Keep it chilled and stir gently before serving for best taste.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it includes fruits and nuts. Use light mayonnaise or yogurt to reduce calories if needed.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, diced chicken or turkey works well. It turns the salad into a complete meal.
How do I stop apples from turning brown?
Mix apples with lemon juice right away. This helps keep them fresh and bright longer.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe is simple, fresh and elegant. It uses easy ingredients and takes very little time.
If you want to learn how to make Ina Garten Waldorf Salad, this recipe is perfect. The ingredients for Ina Garten Waldorf Salad are easy to find.
This salad adds color and flavor to any table. Try it once and it may become a favorite in your home.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!