March 16, 2023

Healthy Waldorf Slaw Recipe – A Fresh Twist on a Classic

When it comes to classic salads, few have the rich history and enduring appeal of Waldorf Slaw. This modern twist on the traditional Waldorf Salad swaps out greens for a crunchy coleslaw base, combining the fresh flavors of apples and pears with the nutty crunch of walnuts and sweet chewiness of raisins. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light, satisfying lunch, Waldorf Slaw is a refreshing and nutritious choice that’s sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll explore the history of Waldorf Slaw, why it’s a hit with today’s food lovers, highlight its seasonal ingredients, delve into its nutritional benefits, and share creative serving ideas. We’ll even offer some professional chef tips to help you perfect this dish.

A Brief History of Waldorf Slaw

The origins of Waldorf Slaw trace back to the late 19th century at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. Its creator, maître d’hôtel Oscar Tschirky, first served a simple mix of apples, celery, and mayonnaise to the hotel’s high-society guests in 1896. The dish quickly became a hit and evolved over the decades as chefs added new ingredients like grapes and walnuts.

Waldorf Slaw emerged as a creative variation on the original, using a coleslaw base for added crunch and versatility. This twist retains the original sweet-savory profile but introduces a heartier texture and colorful presentation—perfect for modern palates.

Why Waldorf Slaw is a Modern Favorite

Waldorf Slaw’s resurgence can be attributed to its health-conscious appeal and versatility. As consumers lean toward plant-forward diets and fresh, seasonal eating, this slaw fits the bill. Its combination of fruits, vegetables, and nuts makes it a nutrient-dense option that’s easy to adapt for various dietary preferences.

Additionally, Waldorf Slaw offers an exciting balance of flavors and textures:

Sweet apples and pears
Crunchy cabbage and carrots
Chewy raisins
Nutty walnuts

The dish works well in diverse settings—served as a classic side, a light lunch, or even a topping for burgers and wraps.

Seasonal and Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Choosing fresh, seasonal ingredients not only enhances flavor but also boosts the dish’s nutritional profile. Here’s what to look for:

Braeburn or Honeycrisp Apples: Perfect for their balance of sweetness and crisp texture.
Bartlett Pears: Juicy and flavorful, they add a softer bite.
Cabbage and Carrots: Use fresh coleslaw mix for convenience or shred your own for the freshest results.
Walnuts: Toast them lightly for added depth and crunch. Pecans or sunflower seeds are great substitutes.
Raisins: For a flavor twist, try dried cranberries or golden raisins.

Chef Tip:

Incorporate local or organic produce when possible for the best taste and environmental impact.

Print Pin

Waldorf Slaw

Enjoy a healthy and delicious Waldorf Slaw that puts a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw. This easy-to-make salad combines crisp cabbage and carrot coleslaw with the sweetness of Braeburn apples, Bartlett pears, and raisins, along with the nutty crunch of walnuts. Tossed in a tangy dressing made with low-fat mayonnaise, buttermilk, and zesty lemon, this Waldorf Slaw is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Course Salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 0

Servings 8

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

2 cups Braeburn apples chopped
1 cup Bartlett pears chopped
1/2 cup raisins
3 tablespoons chopped walnuts
16 ounces packed cabbage and carrot coleslaw
1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Begin by preparing the fruits and vegetables. Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces. Chop the walnuts into small pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, pears, raisins, and walnuts.
Add the packed cabbage and carrot coleslaw mix to the bowl with the fruits and nuts. Toss everything together to combine thoroughly.
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the low-fat mayonnaise, low-fat buttermilk, grated lemon rind, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss everything together until the coleslaw is evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful flavors of Waldorf Slaw!

Notes

This Waldorf Slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutritional Benefits of Waldorf Slaw

Waldorf Slaw is more than a tasty dish—it’s packed with nutrients:

Fiber and Antioxidants: Apples and pears support digestion and boost immunity with vitamin C and polyphenols.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
Vitamin K and Potassium: The cabbage and carrots contribute essential nutrients that support bone health and blood pressure regulation.

For a lighter version, use a yogurt-based dressing or mix equal parts buttermilk and low-fat mayonnaise for a tangy twist.

Serving Ideas and Creative Uses

Classic Side Dish: Serve with grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a light and refreshing accompaniment.
Protein-Packed Lunch: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
Wraps and Burgers: Use Waldorf Slaw as a crunchy topping for wraps or sandwiches.
Party Dip: Serve with pita chips or vegetable sticks for a unique appetizer.
Holiday Side: Add pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs for a festive twist at holiday gatherings.

Chef Tips for Perfecting Waldorf Slaw

Dressing Balance: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid a soggy slaw.
Toasting Nuts: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant for extra flavor.
Make Ahead: Waldorf Slaw tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

Food Safety Considerations

When working with fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s essential to follow food safety practices to avoid contamination:

Wash Produce Thoroughly: Rinse apples, pears, cabbage, and carrots under running water before use.
Prevent Cross-Contamination: Use separate cutting boards for fruits, vegetables, and nuts if you’re preparing multiple ingredients at once.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Allergen Note: If serving to a group, be mindful of potential allergens like nuts and dairy. Offer nut-free or dairy-free options as needed.

Conclusion

Waldorf Slaw is a timeless dish that’s easy to love for its fresh flavors and crunchy textures. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer picnic or serving it at a holiday feast, this versatile slaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So why not give it a try? With just a few fresh ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a healthy, delicious salad that will become a staple in your recipe collection.