Crisp and Refreshing Waldorf Salad
Easy Homemade Waldorf Salad Recipe
Introducing a recipe for a crisp and refreshing Waldorf salad, brimming with healthy flavors and delightful textures. This classic salad combines fresh apples, crunchy celery, and savory walnuts, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Soaking the cut apples in a solution of salt and sugar water will prevent them from browning, keeping them fresh and vibrant. Chop the walnuts into 1cm pieces, and reserve any leftover bits for garnishing the finished salad. While traditionally made with apples, walnuts, and celery, this salad can be adapted with various fruits and vegetables for a more elaborate dish, or even set with gelatin. (Reference: Culinary Arts Practical Exam Study Guide)
Main Ingredients
- 250g Apples (1 medium)
- 30g Celery
- 2 Walnuts (medium, shelled)
- 1/4 Lemon
- 2g Salt
- 1g White Pepper Powder
- 2 Lettuce Leaves (e.g., Romaine or Iceberg)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Peel the apples and dice them into roughly 1cm cubes. Prepare a bowl of water with a pinch of salt and the juice from the lemon quarter. Add the diced apples to this mixture and let them sit for about 5 minutes to prevent browning. Gently mix them, and optionally, you can add a piece of lemon peel for extra aroma. After soaking, drain the apples thoroughly.
Step 2
Peel the celery stalks to remove any tough outer fibers, then chop them into 1cm pieces, similar in size to the apples. Soak the walnuts in lukewarm water for about 5 minutes to soften them slightly. Carefully remove the inner skins using a toothpick. Chop the walnuts into pieces roughly the same size as the diced apples.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 to 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with the salt and white pepper powder. Stir well to create a smooth dressing. Add the drained apples, chopped celery, and prepared walnuts to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the mayonnaise dressing.
Step 4
Arrange the washed lettuce leaves attractively at the bottom of a serving dish. Spoon the prepared Waldorf salad generously on top of the lettuce. This creates a beautiful presentation for your fresh and delicious Waldorf salad. You can also sprinkle any reserved chopped walnut pieces over the top for an extra garnish.
