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crisp waldorf salad recipe

Crisp Waldorf Salad

This refreshing Waldorf salad combines crunchy apples, celery, and pecans with juicy grapes and chewy raisins in a lightened-up creamy dressing. The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes this classic dish ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons sliced celery
  • 1/4 cup green seedless grapes
  • 1/4 cup plain nonfat yogurt
  • 2 cups apples chopped, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons pecans chopped
  • Lettuce leaves for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Salad plates

Method
 

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Add the raisins, green seedless grapes, and sliced celery to the apple mixture.
  3. In a small separate bowl, combine the fat-free mayonnaise and plain nonfat yogurt, stirring until smooth.
  4. Gently fold the dressing into the apple mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated without mashing the ingredients.
  5. Chill the salad for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for flavors to develop.
  6. When ready to serve, arrange lettuce leaves on salad plates and spoon the chilled Waldorf mixture on top.
  7. Sprinkle with chopped pecans just before serving.

Notes

For best results, choose firm, crisp apples that will hold their shape and provide the signature crunch. The salad actually tastes better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep.
Feel free to customize this classic - try dried cranberries instead of raisins, walnuts instead of pecans, or add diced chicken for a protein boost. For a gourmet variation, add blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of honey.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.