Cranberry Apple Waldorf Delight
This delightful twist on the classic Waldorf salad combines the sweet crunch of crispy Ambrosia apples with the refreshing flavors of green grapes, crisp celery, and chewy dried cranberries. Tossed in a creamy yogurt dressing enhanced with citrus notes from orange and lemon, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but is also packed with nutrients. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or a colorful addition to your holiday spread, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apples
4 cups (chopped (preferably crisp Ambrosia apples))
Celery
1 cup (chopped)
Seedless grapes
1 1/2 cups (halved (preferably green grapes))
Dried cranberries
1 cup (whole)
Walnuts
1 cup (chopped)
Plain fat-free yogurt
1/4 cup (none)
Orange juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Honey
1 tablespoon (none)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped Ambrosia apples, celery, halved green grapes, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Gently fold these ingredients together to create a vibrant mix.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain fat-free yogurt, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3
Pour the yogurt dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
4
Serve the salad immediately for the best texture, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or served over a fresh leaf of lettuce for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cranberry Apple Waldorf Delight?
It is a refreshing twist on the classic Waldorf salad featuring Ambrosia apples, grapes, celery, dried cranberries, and walnuts in a creamy yogurt-based dressing.
What type of apples should I use for this salad?
The recipe recommends using 4 cups of chopped crisp Ambrosia apples for their sweet crunch.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, while the recipe calls for chopped walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans or almonds if preferred.
Is the dressing for this Waldorf salad mayonnaise-based?
No, this version uses a healthier dressing made from plain fat-free yogurt, honey, and citrus juices.
What kind of grapes are used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of seedless green grapes, halved.
Are the cranberries fresh or dried?
This recipe uses 1 cup of whole dried cranberries for a chewy texture and sweet flavor.
How much celery is needed?
You will need 1 cup of chopped celery.
Does the recipe include any citrus?
Yes, the dressing includes 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Cranberry Apple Waldorf Delight is a vegetarian-friendly dish.
How should I prepare the apples?
The apples should be chopped into bite-sized pieces; it is recommended to keep them crisp.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How do I serve the salad for an elegant presentation?
You can serve the salad over a fresh leaf of lettuce for a more formal look.
Is there any added sugar in the dressing?
The dressing is sweetened naturally with 1 tablespoon of honey.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, serving immediately provides the best texture for the crispy ingredients.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients list, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, though you should verify your specific brands of yogurt and dried cranberries.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 10 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain fat-free yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute and will provide a thicker, creamier consistency.
How much honey is in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of honey.
Is there salt in this salad?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
The salad features a blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors with a significant crunch.
Can I use red grapes instead of green?
Yes, red seedless grapes can be used if green grapes are unavailable.
Is this a good dish for the holidays?
Absolutely, its colorful ingredients and refreshing taste make it a perfect addition to a holiday spread.
Should the walnuts be raw or roasted?
The recipe calls for chopped walnuts; while it doesn't specify roasting, roasted walnuts can add extra depth of flavor.
What bowl should I use for mixing?
A large mixing bowl is recommended to combine the fruit and celery, while a separate small bowl is used for the dressing.
How do I combine the dressing and the fruit?
Pour the whisked yogurt dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Can I add protein to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, many people enjoy adding cooked chicken or turkey to Waldorf salads.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe, as it mostly involves chopping and mixing.
Are the lemon and orange juices fresh?
The recipe specifies using freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice for the best flavor.
Can I substitute the honey for a vegan option?
Yes, you could use maple syrup or agave nectar, though you would also need to substitute the yogurt for a plant-based version to make the dish fully vegan.
What makes the Ambrosia apple a good choice?
Ambrosia apples are known for being exceptionally crisp and sweet, which complements the tart cranberries and creamy dressing.