I enjoy this salad because it’s simple, classic, and always delicious. I appreciate how the textures contrast so beautifully, and I love that the dressing adds brightness without overpowering the fruit and vegetables. It’s a dish I can make in minutes, yet it feels elegant enough for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
▢4 cups Boston Bib, Romaine or Iceberg ▢1 medium diced ▢1 medium diced ▢3-4 stalks thinly sliced ▢1 cup halved
Candied Walnuts ▢¼ cup ▢1 tablespoon ▢1 tablespoon
Dressing ▢½ cup Miracle Whip ▢2 tablespoons zest and juice
Directions
I combine the walnuts, butter, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and coats the walnuts. I transfer them to a plate to cool.
I whisk the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and zest until creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, I mix the red and green apples, celery, grapes, and cooled candied walnuts.
I pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
I serve the salad on a bed of fresh lettuce.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
I like adjusting this salad depending on the occasion. Sometimes I add diced chicken for a protein-packed version, or I mix in dried cranberries for extra sweetness. I also enjoy swapping the Miracle Whip for Greek yogurt when I want a lighter, tangier dressing. For a more decadent twist, I occasionally fold in a handful of blue cheese crumbles.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious. This salad doesn’t require reheating and is best enjoyed chilled. To keep it freshest, I often store the lettuce separately and toss just before serving.
FAQs
How do I keep the apples from browning?
I make sure the dressing coats them well, and I sometimes toss them in a little lemon juice first.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, I prep the ingredients ahead but add the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Miracle Whip?
Yes, I can substitute mayo, though the flavor will be less sweet and tangy.
Can I make this salad without nuts?
Absolutely—sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds add great crunch as alternatives.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, any crisp lettuce works well, and I sometimes use a mix for more texture.
How sweet should the candied walnuts be?
I adjust the sugar depending on how sweet I want them; the listed amount gives a balanced coating.
Can I replace grapes with another fruit?
Yes, I like using pears, dried cherries, or fresh berries.
Can I add protein to make this a main dish?
Diced chicken, turkey, or even shrimp work beautifully.
How do I make the dressing lighter?
I often use Greek yogurt or a half-and-half mix with Miracle Whip.
Can I serve it without lettuce?
Yes, I sometimes serve it as a standalone fruit-and-veg salad.
Conclusion
I love how refreshing, crisp, and satisfying this Waldorf salad is. With its creamy dressing, sweet fruit, and crunchy walnuts, it always feels like a timeless dish that brightens any table. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and always a pleasure to serve.
A fresh, vibrant Waldorf salad made with crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and sweet homemade candied walnuts, all tossed in a creamy, citrusy dressing and served over lettuce.
Ingredients
4 cups Boston Bibb, Romaine, or Iceberg lettuce
1 medium red apple, diced
1 medium green apple, diced
3–4 celery stalks, thinly sliced
1 cup grapes, halved
Candied Walnuts:
1/4 cup walnuts
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon sugar
Dressing:
1/2 cup Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise)
2 tablespoons lemon zest and juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Combine walnuts, butter, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts. Transfer to a plate to cool.
Whisk Miracle Whip, lemon juice, and lemon zest together. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine diced red and green apples, sliced celery, halved grapes, and cooled candied walnuts.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat.
Serve the salad over a bed of fresh lettuce.
Notes
Add diced chicken for a protein-packed version.
Swap Miracle Whip for Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
