Summer Waldorf Salad
A vibrant, refreshing summer salad combining tropical fruits, crunchy celery, and walnuts, dressed in a creamy honey-yogurt sauce—perfect for hot days and light gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss the fruit and walnuts gently in a large bowl.
- Combine the reduced-calorie mayonnaise, lemon yogurt, and honey in a separate small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and stir gently to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of reduced-calorie mayonnaise. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or sunflower seeds for a different texture. If fresh kiwi isn't available, canned or frozen can work in a pinch, though fresh is preferred for flavor. Ensure to cut the apple just before serving to prevent browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Summer Waldorf Salad chilled as a side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider adding a slice of crusty bread or a scoop of quinoa salad. This dish is also a great addition to any brunch table alongside options like Fruit-And-Cereal Brunch Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave to maintain the fruit's texture. However, it's recommended to serve it cold for optimal freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Waldorf Salad contains roughly 754 calories, with 8g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), and potassium (16% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 fruit and dressing a few hours in advance, but it's best to combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy. If you must make it the night before, add a bit of lemon juice to the apple to prevent browning.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, try using pecans or sunflower seeds as alternatives. Both will provide a nice crunch without the nutty taste of walnuts.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the reduced-calorie mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo and use dairy-free yogurt instead of lemon yogurt. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of the Summer Waldorf Salad.
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).