You can eat Waldorf salad as an appetizer or side dish, but what dish goes well with Waldorf salad it is equally important. The perfect pairing will enhance both dishes without overpowering either one.
Waldorf salad has many variations, but they all usually include apples and walnuts with a mayonnaise-based dressing. The type of apple you choose will change the flavor profile of the salad, so it’s important to experiment.
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Why is it called Waldorf salad?
The history of Waldorf salad is rather cloudy, but many believe it was named after the Waldorf hotel in New York.
Others say it was originally served at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. When the restaurant opened in 1893, this salad was on its menu. It wasn’t until later that they went by “Waldorf” salad.
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What dish goes well with Waldorf salad?
Waldorf salad is a classic combination of apples, celery, walnuts, and mayo. It’s also very versatile in terms of how you can prepare it. That said, what dish goes well with Waldorf salad when serving this delicious fruit salad recipe? Here are ten suggestions:
1. French fries
The crispy texture of French fries is a nice contrast to the creamy Waldorf salad. Because they are so starchy, this side dish pairs well with just about any main course you can think of. Another popular pairing for Waldorf salad is hot dogs.
2. Roast beef
While soggy French fries may not be the most appetizing side dish for Waldorf salad, a nice roast beef sandwich is just what you need. You can also serve this fruit salad recipe with a rotisserie chicken or spiced ham.
3. Grilled cheese sandwiches
Grilled cheese sandwiches are traditionally made with white bread and American cheese, but there are no rules when it comes to what dish goes well with Waldorf salad. Try blue cheese or cheddar instead of American, and sourdough or focaccia bread instead of white.

4. Lobster rolls
A lobster roll is a great pairing for Waldorf salad because each complements the other without overpowering its counterpart. You can also serve this fruit salad recipe with chicken or turkey sandwiches because the mayonnaise in both dishes will complement each other.
5. Baked potatoes
A baked potato is a great choice if you’re looking for what dish goes well with Waldorf salad for dinner. Pair it with shepherd’s pie or beef stroganoff for a hearty meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
6. Salads
Because Waldorf salad is made with mayonnaise, and crunchy green salad is a good companion for it. Try pairing it with a fresh spinach salad or mixed greens, and you’ll have a nice complementing dish on your hands.
7. Tacos and nachos
Tacos and nachos are delicious Mexican dishes that pair well with just about anything, including Waldorf salad. Without the shell, tacos allow you to enjoy each ingredient in this fruit salad recipe without getting lost among the other flavors. Nachos give you that same effect with their tortilla chips.
8. Spaghetti and other pasta
Pasta is another great choice for what dish goes well with Waldorf salad, especially spaghetti or other long noodles. If you prefer your fruit salad recipe with meatballs, look no further than Italian cuisine to find a suitable pairing.
9. Hamburgers and hot dogs
Hamburgers and hot dogs are another popular American dish that pairs well with Waldorf salad. These items are served together at many family gatherings, making it easy to see why they complement each other so well.
10. Sandwiches
Last but not least, sandwiches go great with just about anything, including Waldorf salad. You can’t go wrong with a sandwich as your meal’s side dish from fried chicken to cold cuts.

How do you present your salad more attractive?
Waldorf salad looks really nice when served in a martini glass. This fruit salad recipe is also wonderful if you serve it in hollowed-out oranges, grapefruit, or apples.
It’s even more appetizing when placed atop large lettuce leaves that are then folded over for easy eating. With the right presentation, Waldorf salad can be a very attractive dish to serve at any get-together.
Waldorf salad recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped 1 small bunch celery, diced 1 1/2 cup grapes, cut in half 2 apples (I used pink lady), cored and diced 3 Tbsp mayonnaise (I like to use organic) salt and pepper to taste.
Directions:
Combine the first four ingredients in a large bowl. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with salt and pepper to taste. Add the dressing to the salad and toss well before serving.
Note: While I made this fruit salad recipe as written, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier version of Waldorf salad dressing. Please feel free to share this fruit salad recipe with your family and friends, too.
How healthy is Waldorf salad?
A Waldorf salad recipe is very healthy because it’s high in fiber, protein, and vitamin C. It also has a good amount of iron, which is essential to any diet. Most importantly, though, this fruit salad contains omega-3 fatty acids that are important for the body to function at its best. Because it’s so low in calories, this fruit salad recipe is perfect for people who are trying to avoid obesity.
The Bottom Line
While some people still think of Waldorf salad as an outdated dish, it’s actually better than ever right now. It offers a tasty alternative to mayonnaise-heavy dressings and allows the individual ingredients in the fruit salad recipe to shine instead of taking over the flavor profile.
A delicious fruit salad can be enjoyed any time, but especially in the summer when you need to cool down after all that running around. If you’re not much of a fruit eater, this Waldorf salad recipe is a great way to have your fruits and eat them too!
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