Embrace a refreshing culinary experience with our delightful Vegan & Gluten-Free Waldorf Salad. This modern take on a timeless classic delivers an exquisite balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Featuring crisp, juicy apples, crunchy celery, succulent grapes, and perfectly toasted walnuts, all generously coated in a creamy, dairy-free dressing, this recipe stands proudly alongside its traditional counterpart – but with the added benefits of being entirely gluten-free and vegan.

Crafted for convenience and incredible taste, this salad requires just 10 minutes of active prep time, making it an ideal candidate for a quick, light meal or a vibrant side dish to impress at your next potluck, backyard barbecue, or family gathering. Prepare to savor a salad that doesn’t compromise on flavor or dietary needs!

The Timeless Appeal of a Delicious Waldorf Salad

Few salads boast the rich history and enduring popularity of the Waldorf Salad. This iconic creation first graced the tables of the New York City-based Waldorf Hotel (now known as the Waldorf-Astoria) in the late 19th century. Since its inception, it has captivated diners with its extraordinary blend of flavors and textures, quickly becoming a culinary legend.

What makes the Waldorf Salad so special? It’s a symphony of contrasts: the crispness of fresh apples and celery, the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts, and the juicy sweetness of grapes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy dressing. The classic flavor profile is a harmonious medley of savory, tangy, and sweet notes that dance on the palate, making it incredibly tasty, wonderfully refreshing, and surprisingly satisfying.

Our featured recipe takes this beloved classic and thoughtfully adapts it to be completely vegan and gluten-free. We achieve the signature creamy texture by using a combination of high-quality vegan mayonnaise and unsweetened dairy-free yogurt in the dressing. This ingenious substitution ensures that everyone, including those following a vegan diet or managing specific dietary restrictions, can indulge in this gourmet delight without compromise.

Beyond its health-conscious benefits, this versatile salad is perfect for a myriad of occasions. It’s an excellent choice for light summer lunches, lively backyard grilling parties, or even as an elegant side dish for more formal holiday gatherings. Its vibrant colors and inviting textures make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, promising to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Vegan & Gluten-Free Waldorf Salad

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary revelation designed to fit seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. Here are the compelling reasons why this Vegan & Gluten-Free Waldorf Salad will become your new go-to recipe:

• Simple & Accessible Ingredients: Forget specialty stores and hard-to-find items. Every ingredient required for this delightful vegan Waldorf salad – from crisp apples and celery to wholesome nuts and plant-based dressing components – is readily available at your local grocery store. We believe that healthy eating should be easy and convenient, and this recipe perfectly embodies that philosophy.
• Effortless Preparation in Minutes: Who has hours to spend in the kitchen? Not us! With a mere 10 minutes of hands-on prep time, you can quickly toss together this incredibly flavorful salad. It’s the ultimate solution for those busy weeknights, last-minute potluck invitations, or when you simply crave big flavor with minimal effort. This recipe proves that delicious, healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated.
• 100% Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan: This is truly the best part! Our Waldorf Salad is meticulously crafted to be entirely gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means it’s a safe and delicious option for individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerance, or those committed to a vegan lifestyle. You can confidently serve this salad to a diverse group of diners, knowing everyone can enjoy its incredible taste without any dietary concerns. It’s an inclusive recipe that brings joy to every plate.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Creating this easy and delicious vegan Waldorf salad starts with selecting fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s a visual overview to help you get started:

(For exact measurements and a detailed list, please scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions for Your Perfect Waldorf Salad

Flexibility is key in the kitchen, and this Waldorf Salad recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some detailed notes and substitution suggestions to help you customize it to your taste and dietary needs:

• Apples: While I have a personal preference for the tartness and crisp texture of green apples, such as Granny Smith, feel free to use your favorite variety. Red apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady will also work beautifully, offering a sweeter profile and often a slightly softer bite. For an extra touch of flavor and color, consider using a mix of both!
• Grapes: For ultimate convenience and a delightful eating experience, I highly recommend using seedless grapes. You can opt for a vibrant mix of both juicy red and crisp green grapes to add visual appeal, or simply choose whichever color you prefer based on availability and taste.
• Celery: The signature crunch of a Waldorf Salad largely comes from fresh celery. Ensure you select firm, crisp celery stalks for the best results. Older celery tends to become limp and loses its essential crispiness, so always opt for the freshest available.
• Nuts: Toasted nuts are a game-changer in this salad, adding a depth of nutty flavor and an irresistible crunch. I love using a mix of toasted pecans and walnuts, but if you have a strong preference, you can certainly use just walnuts or pecans. The recipe provides instructions for toasting them at home, a simple step that yields immense flavor rewards. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, store-bought pre-toasted nuts are a convenient option.
• Mayonnaise: To maintain the vegan integrity of this recipe, I’ve specifically called for vegan mayonnaise. There are many excellent brands available that mimic the taste and texture of traditional mayo perfectly. However, if you are not following a vegan diet, classic mayonnaise can be used as a direct 1:1 substitute.
• Yogurt: Similarly, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (such as almond, soy, or coconut-based yogurt) is crucial for keeping this salad both vegan and dairy-free. It adds a lovely tang and creaminess to the dressing. If dairy is not a concern for you, unsweetened Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative, providing a similar rich texture and mild tang.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is vital for brightening the flavors of the dressing and adding a delightful tang that balances the sweetness and creaminess. For the most vibrant flavor, fresh is always best. However, if fresh lemons aren’t accessible, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. For a slightly different tangy note, a good quality apple cider vinegar can also be a suitable substitute.
• Maple Syrup: As a natural, plant-based sweetener, maple syrup perfectly complements the other flavors in the dressing. Another excellent vegan sweetener option is agave nectar. If you are not strictly vegan, feel free to use honey for its unique flavor profile.

How to Create Your Perfect Vegan Waldorf Salad (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making this refreshing Waldorf Salad is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to assemble a delicious and impressive dish:

Step 1: Toast and Finely Chop Your Nuts

If your pecans and walnuts are raw, begin by toasting them to unlock their full nutty aroma and enhance their crunch. Heat a dry skillet over low heat. Add the nuts and toast for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Watch them carefully – they can toast quickly! Once fragrant and lightly golden, remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly. This cooling period is important as it helps them become extra crunchy. Once cooled, finely chop them to your desired size.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Vegan Waldorf Salad Dressing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free yogurt, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup (or your chosen sweetener), and salt. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. Ensure there are no lumps and the flavors are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch more salt or a splash more lemon juice to your preference.

Step 3: Combine Celery, Grapes, and Toasted Nuts

In a large mixing bowl, the primary stage for your salad, add the finely chopped celery, the halved seedless grapes, and the delightful toasted nuts. These ingredients form the crunchy and juicy base of your Waldorf Salad, contributing essential texture and flavor. Give them a quick stir to distribute them evenly.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples and Drizzle with Dressing

Wash your apples thoroughly, then core them and cut them into small, bite-sized cubes. Add these freshly cut apples to the large bowl with the celery, grapes, and nuts. To prevent apples from browning if you’re not serving immediately, you can lightly toss them in a small amount of lemon juice before adding them to the salad. Now, pour the creamy, tangy dressing you prepared in Step 2 generously over all the ingredients in the bowl.

Step 5: Gently Toss and Chill for Optimal Flavor

Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together in the bowl. The goal is to ensure every piece of fruit, vegetable, and nut is thoroughly coated with the delicious creamy dressing. Be careful not to mash the ingredients. Once evenly mixed, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and refreshing taste experience. While optional, chilling significantly enhances the salad’s appeal.

Dish by Dish Tips & Expert Tricks for the Best Waldorf Salad

Elevate your Waldorf Salad from great to extraordinary with these helpful tips and tricks:

• Never Skip Toasting the Nuts: This step is non-negotiable for achieving the best flavor and texture! Toasting pecans and walnuts brings out their natural oils, intensifying their nutty taste and giving them an incredible, irresistible crunch. While it adds a few minutes to your prep, the difference in the final product is truly remarkable and completely worth the effort.
• Customizing for Non-Vegan Diets: If you or your guests are not adhering to a vegan or lactose-intolerant diet, you can easily adapt the dressing. Simply swap the vegan mayonnaise for regular mayonnaise and the dairy-free yogurt for an equal quantity of plain Greek yogurt. This will deliver a more traditional flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Preventing Apple Browning: To keep your apples looking fresh and appealing, especially if you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, toss the chopped apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice before adding them to the main salad bowl. The acidity in the lemon juice acts as a natural antioxidant, preventing oxidation and browning.
• Make Ahead & Storage: This salad tastes best when chilled for at least 15-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can prepare it a few hours in advance, but for optimal crispness, it’s best to add the apples and dressing closer to serving time (within 1-2 hours). Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Note that the celery and apples may soften slightly over time.
• Serving Suggestions: This versatile salad makes a fantastic light lunch on its own, perhaps served on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. It’s also an excellent side for grilled vegetable skewers, plant-based burgers, or a vibrant accompaniment to any summer barbecue spread. For a delightful presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra toasted nuts just before serving.

Explore More Gluten-Free Salad Recipes

If you loved this refreshing Waldorf Salad, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our delicious and healthy gluten-free salad creations:

• Potato Salad (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Chicken Salad (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Macaroni Salad (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Jalapeño Chicken Salad (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Patriotic Fruit Salad (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Other Fresh & Flavorful Summer Recipes You’ll Enjoy

Looking for more ways to celebrate the tastes of summer? Check out these other delightful recipes perfect for the warmer months:

P.S. If you try this incredible Vegan & Gluten-Free Waldorf Salad recipe, I’d absolutely love for you to share your experience! Please leave a star rating below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is invaluable to me and helps others discover these delicious recipes. Be sure to explore my entire Recipe Index for all the culinary delights on the blog. You can also connect with me and find more inspiration on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram! Don’t forget to sign up for my Email List to receive fresh, healthy recipes directly in your inbox each week!

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Easy Vegan & Gluten-Free Waldorf Salad

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• Author: Felicia Lim
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

This refreshing waldorf salad is sweet, savory and tangy. With crispy apples, crunchy celery, grapes and toasted walnuts tossed in a creamy dressing that rivals the traditional version, and completely gluten-free and vegan! With just 10 minutes prep time, it’s perfect as a light meal or side dish for your next potluck.

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Ingredients

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• 2 green apples, cored and cubed
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 3/4 cup celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup raw unsalted walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup raw unsalted pecans, toasted and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons plain dairy-free yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Toast and Chop Nuts: If your nuts are not already toasted, toast the pecans and walnuts in a dry skillet over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Let cool slightly, then chop finely.
2. Prepare Waldorf Salad Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free yogurt, lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt until smooth.
3. Combine Celery, Grapes and Nuts: In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, halved grapes, and toasted nuts.
4. Add Apples and Dressing: Wash, and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes. Add to the bowl with the celery and grapes. Pour the dressing over the salad.
5. Mix to Combine: Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. Chill Until Ready: Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving if desired.

Notes

Apples: I prefer using green apples (Granny Smith) for their tartness and crisp texture, but red apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady will also work beautifully, offering a sweeter profile. Feel free to use a mix of both for added flavor and color.

Grapes: For convenience and a pleasant eating experience, seedless grapes are recommended. You can use a mix of green and red grapes, or whichever color you prefer based on availability and taste.

Celery: The crunch of fresh celery is essential in a Waldorf Salad. Always choose firm, crisp celery stalks. Older, softer celery will not provide the desired texture.

Nuts: Toasting the pecans and walnuts before adding them significantly enhances their flavor and crunch. The recipe includes instructions for home toasting, but store-bought pre-toasted nuts can also be used. A mix of both pecans and walnuts is delightful, but you can opt for just one type if preferred.

Mayonnaise: To keep this recipe strictly vegan, use vegan mayonnaise. If you are not vegan, regular mayonnaise can be substituted in equal measure.

Yogurt: For a vegan and dairy-free dressing, use unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (e.g., almond, soy, or coconut-based). If dairy is acceptable for your diet, plain Greek yogurt is a suitable alternative.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a crucial tangy brightness to the dressing. While fresh is always best, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute. For a different tang, apple cider vinegar can also be used.

Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is used as a vegan sweetener. Agave nectar is another excellent vegan option. If you are not vegan, honey can also be used.

Preventing Apple Browning: For best results, especially if making ahead, toss chopped apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning before adding them to the salad.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Category: Salads
• Cuisine: American