A Waldorf salad is a classic salad that dates back to the late 19th century. It was first created in 1896 at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City. The original recipe contained just apples, celery, and mayonnaise. Over time, walnuts and grapes were added to the salad, making it even more delicious. While there are many variations today, a traditional Waldorf salad contains the following fruits:
Apples
Apples are the star ingredient of a Waldorf salad. Crisp, tart apples are the perfect complement to the creamy mayonnaise dressing. Apples add a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad. Most recipes call for 2-3 apples, cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Choose flavorful apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala.
Grapes
Seedless grapes are another fruit that is commonly added to Waldorf salads. Green grapes or red grapes can be used. Grapes add juiciness, sweetness, and texture contrast to the crunchy apples and celery. About 1 cup of halved grapes is typical for a Waldorf salad serving. Be sure to wash the grapes well and remove any stems.
Raisins
In addition to fresh grapes, some Waldorf salad recipes will include raisins. Raisins add concentrated sweetness and chewiness. They also provide an additional flavor dimension beyond just fresh grapes. Use about 1⁄4 cup per serving of raisins. Golden raisins or regular dark raisins both work well. You can plump the raisins in hot water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad if you want them extra juicy.
Oranges
While not as common as apples and grapes, oranges can also be used in a Waldorf salad. Sections of navel oranges add bright citrus flavor. The juicy orange segments contrast nicely with the crunch of apples and celery. If adding oranges, use about 1 small orange per serving. Be sure to remove any seeds and membrane before chopping the orange segments.
Pears
Pears make a nice substitution for apples in a Waldorf salad recipe. Varieties like Anjou, Bosc, or ripe Bartlett pears work well. The sweet soft flesh of pears is a subtle change from crisp apples. Chop the pears into 1⁄2 inch cubes. To prevent browning, toss the chopped pears with a little lemon juice.
Dried Cranberries
For a tangy twist, some Waldorf salads include dried cranberries. About 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries per serving adds a bright pop of tart flavor and chewy texture. The contrast of sweet apples and grapes with tart cranberries is delicious. Look for dried cranberries with no added sugar.
Conclusion
While the ingredients may vary, Waldorf salads always contain a mix of sweet, crunchy, and juicy fruits. Apples and grapes are the most popular fruits used, but oranges, pears, raisins, and dried cranberries can also be added. The fruit is tossed in a creamy dressing along with celery and walnuts. No matter what fruit you choose, a Waldorf salad is a refreshing, tasty side dish perfect for potlucks and lunches.
Nutrition Facts of Common Fruits in Waldorf Salad
| Fruit | Serving Size | Calories | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 1 medium (182g) | 95 | 25g | 0.5g |
| Grapes | 1 cup (151g) | 104 | 27g | 1g |
| Orange | 1 medium (131g) | 69 | 18g | 1.7g |
| Pear | 1 medium (178g) | 101 | 27g | 1g |
| Dried Cranberries | 1/4 cup (28g) | 93 | 23g | 0.5g |
As you can see from the nutrition facts, the fruits used in a Waldorf salad provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The fiber in the fruits also helps make this salad filling and satisfying.