Winter waldorf salad

Winter Waldorf Salad is a hearty yet refreshing dish featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for winter gatherings, this salad combines robust flavours and textures, making it a satisfying side or light meal.

13 Feb 2026
Cook time 6 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tsp olive oil
1/2 red onion
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup walnuts
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tsp mustard
2 apples
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

{'text': 'Winter Waldorf Salad is a modern twist on the classic dish, perfect for cozy winter months. This refreshing yet hearty salad combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tangy mayonnaise to create a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your seasonal recipe rotation.'}

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Slice the celery stalk thinly.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Roughly chop the walnuts.
- Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and mustard.
- Mix well until smooth.

4. Combine the Salad:
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the bowl with the dressing.
- Add the sliced celery, chopped apples, and roughly chopped walnuts to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.

5. Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the salad.
- Toss gently to distribute the cheese throughout the salad.

6. Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled as a delightful winter side dish.

{'text': "The Winter Waldorf Salad is a versatile and delicious option for your winter menu. With its combination of crunchy, sweet, and savory elements, it's sure to please a variety of palates. Enjoy this salad on its own or as a complementary side dish to your favorite winter entrees. Bon appétit!"}

Winter waldorf salad FAQ:

How long should I chill the Winter Waldorf Salad before serving?

It’s best to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this salad?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise as a substitute for mayonnaise, depending on your dietary preferences.

What type of apples are best for a Waldorf salad?

Crisp apples like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith work well for this salad, as they add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

How should I store leftover Winter Waldorf Salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly soggy over time.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Yes, you can add ingredients like dried cranberries, grapes, or even diced carrots for extra flavor and texture.

Tips:

- Choose fresh, crisp apples to ensure the best texture and flavor in your salad.

- Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the salad for an extra layer of depth and nutty flavor.

- If you find raw red onions too sharp, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their flavor.

- For a lighter version of the dressing, use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding or substituting other ingredients like raisins, grapes, or even shredded chicken for extra protein.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 340kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 4.81g
Sugar 10g
Fat 30g

Winter waldorf salad