Waldorf Salad With Raisins
A crisp, refreshing salad combining sweet apples, crunchy celery, and aromatic walnuts, all coated in a creamy dressing with a hint of tang from lemon juice. Perfect for light lunches, picnics, or holiday gatherings, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the diced apples in a medium bowl.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice.
- Add the diced celery, raisins, and salt.
- Blend in the mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with walnuts or pecans on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding a handful of grapes or chopped pineapple to the salad. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream. You can also substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Make sure to use crisp apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Waldorf salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile choice for any meal. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Snowflake Fruit Salad for a refreshing finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Waldorf salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. To prevent the apples from browning, ensure they are well-coated with lemon juice. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so you can serve it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waldorf Salad With Raisins contains roughly 388 calories, with 10g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2111mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
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 Waldorf salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Waldorf salad a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the walnuts just before serving to maintain their crunch. If you're making it the night before, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What type of apples work best in this salad?
Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for Waldorf salad. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the raisins and the creaminess of the dressing. Avoid using soft apples as they may turn mushy in the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this Waldorf salad is vegetarian-friendly. With its combination of fruits, nuts, and creamy dressing, it makes a nutritious and satisfying dish. For vegan diets, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
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).