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Waldorf Salad

The Waldorf salad is a timeless vegetarian classic that perfectly balances textures and flavours. This elegant dish combines the satisfying crunch of fresh celery and walnuts with the bright sweetness of crisp apples. Originally created in New York, it has become a staple of British buffet tables and summer luncheons thanks to its refreshing profile and simple preparation. The addition of seedless red grapes provides a burst of juicy sweetness that cuts through the rich, creamy mayonnaise dressing.

Ideal as a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish, this homemade salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy, fibre-rich snack. For the best results, use a firm British apple variety like Braeburn or Cox to ensure the salad maintains its crispness. Whether served chilled on a warm afternoon or at room temperature, it remains a reliable crowd-pleaser that takes only minutes to assemble.

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Ingredients for Waldorf Salad

  • 100g diced celery

  • 100g diced cored, peeled apples

  • 80g coarsely chopped walnuts

  • 80g seedless red grapes, halved, optional

  • 120 to 180ml mayonnaise

Combine celery, apples, walnuts, and grapes in a medium bowl.

Stir in mayonnaise.

Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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