Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad
This Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad is a delightful twist on the classic, blending crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans with a creamy yogurt dressing. It's perfect for fall gatherings or as a refreshing side dish for any meal.
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Ingredients for Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad
Granny Smith apples provide a tart, crisp element that pairs beautifully with the sweet ingredients. Red seedless grapes add juicy bursts of sweetness. The dried cranberries introduce a chewy texture and a hint of tartness, complementing the apples. Pecans, once toasted, bring a warm, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Celery adds a fresh, crisp contrast. The plain Greek yogurt serves as a creamy, tangy base for the dressing, while honey sweetens it naturally. Lemon juice brightens up the flavors and prevents the apples from browning. Finally, a dash of salt and pepper ties everything together, enhancing the overall taste.
Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad Tips & Tricks
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- For a more robust flavor, let the salad sit overnight in the fridge.
- If you like a bit more sweetness, adjust the honey to your preference.
Serving Ideas for Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad
This salad makes a great side dish for roasted turkey or chicken, especially during holiday meals. It also pairs nicely with a simple sandwich for a light lunch or can be served on a bed of fresh greens for a more substantial salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of apple?
- Absolutely! Honeycrisp or Fuji apples would work well if you prefer a sweeter apple.
- What can I substitute for pecans?
- Walnuts are a great alternative and will provide a similar crunch and flavor.
- Is there a non-dairy option for the yogurt?
- Yes, you can use a non-dairy yogurt, like coconut or almond yogurt, for a dairy-free version.
Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad Recipe Walkthrough
Start by coring and chopping your two medium Granny Smith apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them into a large mixing bowl. Next, take about one cup of red seedless grapes, slice them in half, and add them to the bowl with the apples. Now, measure out half a cup of dried cranberries and half a cup of toasted, chopped pecans, and sprinkle those in as well. For a bit of crunch, dice up two stalks of celery and add them to the mix.
In a smaller bowl, start your dressing by adding half a cup of plain Greek yogurt. To this, whisk in one tablespoon of honey for sweetness and one tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and keep those apples looking fresh. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to your taste. Whisk it all together until smooth and creamy.
Pour the yogurt dressing over the fruit and nut mixture in your large bowl. Using a gentle hand, toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Once mixed, cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Why This Classic Cranberry Pecan Waldorf Salad Works
- Simple ingredients that bring out the best in each other.
- Quick to prepare with a big flavor payoff.
- Perfect balance of sweet, tart, and nutty.
- A healthier take with Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, grapes, cranberries, pecans, and celery.
- 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Pour the yogurt dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
- 4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.