Appetizers

Waldorf salad

⏱ 15 min👤 2 pp★★☆☆☆

There are some recipes that are so easy to prepare, both as an accompaniment to the main course, or as an appetiser to kick off a lovely dinner during the summer months, especially if your guests love something light, tasty and crunchy. The following recipe will add a personal touch to your dinner table: it is none other than the Waldorf salad, invented in the late nineteenth century by the famous chef of the Hotel Waldorf Astoria in New York. Originally, the salad included just celery and apples, ingredients which were then topped with mayonnaise, although with the passage of time new ingredients were added, such as walnuts, lemon juice and mustard. With our Waldorf salad you will be able to provide a lovely, light side dish to your main meat or fish course.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
8g
Carbohydrates
18g
Fat
48g
Fiber
3g

* approximate values per serving

Information
15 minutes Preparation time
Serves 2 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Chop the celery stalks into pieces, and cut the apple into cubes. Tear the lettuce into pieces. Mix the salad leaves with the celery and apple and add a teaspoon of French mustard and two tablespoons of mayonnaise. Chop the walnuts roughly and add them to the salad. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top, salt and oil and mix well. The Waldorf salad is ready, a light and tasty appetizer.

Tips
To help balance the flavours of the Waldorf salad, in general apples with a slightly sharper flavour should be used.
Trivia
This salad gets its name by virtue of its being invented by a chef at the famous Waldorf-Astoria hotel, a symbol of the belle époque in New York.

Step by step

Celery
Celery
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Waldorf Salad with Crunchy Walnuts

One of the most delicious variations of Waldorf Salad is the one that highlights crunchy walnuts. In this preparation, the rich and buttery flavor of the walnuts perfectly combines with the freshness of the salad, apples, and celery. To achieve the best result, it is advisable to lightly toast the walnuts in a non-stick pan before adding them to the salad. This simple yet effective step enhances their flavor and offers an even more pleasant texture. The recipe remains light and suitable for those looking for a tasty appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Try this variation to surprise your guests with an extra crunch!

American Style Waldorf Salad

Waldorf Salad is a dish that has its origins in the United States, specifically at the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York. This preparation is characterized by a mix of fresh and flavorful ingredients, making it an iconic appetizer of American cuisine. The traditional recipe calls for Granny Smith apples, which provide a pleasant contrast of sweetness and acidity. Adding some crunchy celery and toasted walnuts further enriches the dish. If you want an extra touch, you can also include grapes or raisins for an even more complex flavor. This variation is perfect for those who love fresh and fruity flavors, typical of American culinary tradition.

Light Waldorf Salad without Mayonnaise

For those on a light diet or looking to reduce caloric intake, there is a version of Light Waldorf Salad that eliminates mayonnaise. In this preparation, you can substitute mayonnaise with natural Greek yogurt, which provides creaminess and a fresh taste without weighing down the dish. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of mustard helps maintain a bold and flavorful taste. This alternative is perfect for those looking to stay fit without sacrificing flavor. With fresh and light ingredients, the salad will be an excellent choice for a summer lunch or a buffet. Try this variation and discover how to keep the goodness without compromising health!

Nutritional Benefits of Waldorf Salad and Calories

Waldorf Salad is not only a delicious dish but also rich in nutritional benefits. The main ingredients such as apples and celery are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. Apples, for example, are high in fiber and contribute to heart health, while celery is known for its diuretic properties. Walnuts, in addition to providing a dose of healthy fats, are also rich in antioxidants. A serving of Waldorf Salad provides about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of mayonnaise or yogurt employed. This makes it an excellent choice for a light and nutritious meal, ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Can Waldorf Salad be Stored in the Refrigerator?

A common question regarding Waldorf Salad is whether it can be stored in the refrigerator. The answer is yes, but with some precautions. It is advisable to store the salad in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. However, it is important to note that fresh ingredients such as apples and celery may lose their crunchiness and freshness after a day. To get the most out of the dish, it is preferable to consume it within 24 hours of preparation. If you wish to prepare it in advance, you can chop the ingredients and combine them just before serving, thus keeping the flavor and texture intact.