If you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further! This Easy Deconstructed Waldorf Salad is a lighter version of the classic dish, making it a delightful addition to your meal. It’s perfect for warm days or as a vibrant side dish for special occasions.
We have affiliate relationships, meaning we may get a small referral commission at no additional cost if you shop using our links.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Navigate This Article
What Makes This Salad Special?
This salad is named after the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, where it was first served at a charity ball in 1896. The original recipe, created by executive chef Oscar Tschirky, has evolved over the years, but our version keeps the essence while making it healthier.
Recipe Notes
Traditionally, Waldorf salads are drenched in a rich mayo-based dressing. In our lighter version, we use a mix of sugar-free mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, drizzled sparingly to keep it fresh and light. For the best flavor, prepare the dressing in advance to let the ingredients meld together.
Customize Your Deconstructed Waldorf Salad
Feel free to customize your salad! Here are some delicious variations:
- Fruits: Swap out the apples for pears or add dried cranberries for a sweet touch.
- Nuts: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free option.
How to Serve
This salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a side dish at barbecues or picnics
- As a light lunch topped with grilled chicken or shrimp
- For special occasions, serve it on a bed of lettuce with a sprinkle of fresh herbs
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to two days when stored properly.
Ingredients for Deconstructed Waldorf Salad
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup sugar-free mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1½ tablespoons honey (preferably local)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
For the Salad
- 1 large head of Bibb lettuce, separated, rinsed, and patted dry
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup red grapes (seedless), cut in half
- 2 large stalks celery, chopped small
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- Optional: 2 oz. goat cheese, crumbled
Supplies Used
- Airtight container (for leftovers)
How to Make Deconstructed Waldorf Salad
#1. In a bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, then refrigerate until ready to use.
#2. Line four chilled salad plates or a large bowl with Bibb lettuce leaves.
#3. Toss the apples, grapes, celery, walnuts, and goat cheese (if using) together.
#4. Drizzle with dressing and enjoy immediately, with extra dressing on the side. Enjoy!
Other Salad Recipes To Try
If you’ve enjoyed this Deconstructed Waldorf Salad, I highly recommend trying out more of our healthy and delicious salad recipes:
- Panzanella Salad
- Balsamic Steak Salad
- Seared Swordfish Salad
- Peach Blackberry Salad
- The Best Calamari Salad
- Couscous with Green Apple Salad
- Strawberry Chicken Salad with Pecans and Feta
Kitchen Gadgets To Make Cooking Easy
Click here to see the full list of my favorite affordable kitchen gadgets that make cooking easy! See our favorite time-saving kitchen gadgets on our Amazon Storefront. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Sign Up for Our Email List
Have more delicious recipes like this Deconstructed Waldorf Salad recipe sent straight to your inbox! We also share lifestyle ideas for shopping, travel, pets & more. We would love to connect with you.
Sign up for our emails and know we respect your privacy and will never share your email with anyone else.
PIN for Later
Don’t forget to share this Deconstructed Waldorf Salad recipe with your friends and loved ones. If you are on social media, I would love to connect with you on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter. Just click on the links to visit my profile. Leave a message and I will follow you back! Click here to see all my recipes.
Deconstructed Waldorf Salad – A Lighter Twist on a Classic Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup sugar-free mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 11/2 tablespoons honey preferably local
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
For the Salad
- 1 large head Bibb lettuce , separated, rinsed, and patted dry
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples , cored and sliced
- 1 cup red grapes , seedless, cut in half
- 2 large stalks celery , chopped small
- 1/2 cup walnuts , roughly chopped
- Optional: 2 oz. goat cheese , crumbled
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, then refrigerate until ready to use.
- Line four chilled salad plates or a large bowl with Bibb lettuce leaves.
- Toss the apples, grapes, celery, walnuts, and goat cheese (if using) together.
- Drizzle with dressing and enjoy immediately, with extra dressing on the side. Enjoy!
Leave a Reply