Orange Waldorf Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining sweet oranges, crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted pecans, all coated in creamy yogurt and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for light meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the oranges and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and chop the apple into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the orange, apple, sliced celery, plain low-fat yogurt, chopped toasted pecans, and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate the mixture until chilled.
- Serve on a bed of salad greens.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting walnuts for pecans if you prefer. If you're looking for a lighter dressing, you can replace the yogurt with a mix of lemon juice and a dash of honey. To enhance flavor, try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet touch. Make sure to use firm apples to maintain their texture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Waldorf Salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread or alongside Vegetarian recipes like a hearty lentil soup. You can also garnish with additional toasted nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad may become slightly watery as the fruits release their juices, so give it a gentle stir before serving. It is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Waldorf Salad contains roughly 290 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just assemble the ingredients without the salad greens and store the mixture in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, place it on the greens for a fresh presentation.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
For this salad, crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they provide a nice tartness and crunch. Avoid using soft or mealy apples, as they won't hold up well in the salad.
Is there a substitute for plain low-fat yogurt?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt alternative. For a tangy flavor, consider using a mixture of sour cream and a splash of lemon juice to mimic the creaminess of yogurt.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).