Could it have been created by a chef named Waldorf? Or maybe, it was a salad made and served at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City? These would seem to be the most likely reasons, or maybe it’s just something crazy that you’d never guess. I’ll investigate the reason in this post and explain just what a Waldorf salad is?
The original Waldorf salad recipe consisted of simple ingredients: apples, celery, and mayonnaise. Over the years, variations of the salad have been developed, incorporating additional ingredients such as walnuts, grapes, and even chicken. Despite the variations, the core elements of apples and celery remain constant,
providing a unique combination of crispness and sweetness. The salad was introduced on March 14, 1893, at a charity ball honoring St. Mary’s Hospital for Children. Its debut coincided with that of the Waldorf[1] hotel, which opened the previous day. The charity ball was the very first event held at the hotel. The salad was part of a menu created by Edouard Beauchamp, the Waldorf’s original executive chef, and Oscar Tschirky, its maitre d’hotel. Tschirky, eventually nicknamed Oscar of the Waldorf, is reputed to have been the salad’s creator.
It appeared in a cookbook he published just three years later, The Cook Book, by ‘Oscar’ of the Waldorf. Shortly after its introduction, people began to elaborate on Tschirky’s original three ingredients, adding chopped walnuts, and sometimes other items, like oranges and marshmallows. Today the hotel serves 20,000 salads a year which include includes julienned Granny Smith and Fuji apples, halved red and green grapes, and candied walnuts. The dressing is now an emulsified mixture of Dijon mustard, olive oil, Champagne vinegar, egg yolk and white truffle oil.
Possible Waldorf Salad Ingredients
- Greek Yogurt: Any Greek yogurt will work, whether it’s dairy or dairy-free.
- Mayonnaise: There’s typically mayonnaise in this salad. But if you’re not a fan, you can sub it with more Greek yogurt.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is preferred! Used to prevent the apples from browning and adds a citrusy element.
- Apple: Crisp and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith or Red Delicious, are commonly used. While you can use either red or green apples, green apples are used for a super crisp and tart bite.
- Honey: Just one tablespoon is needed to give the dressing a hint of extra sweetness.
- Grapes: You can use any color of grapes. Red grapes for a nice contrast with the green. But choose green grapes if you want a stylishly monochromatic salad.
- Celery: A few ribs of celery add to the fresh, crisp texture of the salad.
- Nuts: Walnuts are most common, but both walnuts and pecans are great – choose your favorite!
- Herbs: A little chopped parsley gives it a fresh touch.
Footnotes
- The Waldorf Astoria Hotel, an iconic luxury hotel located in New York City, has a storied history dating back to its opening in 1893. Established on the site of the former Astor family mansion, the hotel quickly became a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Renowned for its opulent design, exceptional service, and hosting major events, the Waldorf Astoria has been a landmark in the heart of Manhattan. Over the years, it has undergone several relocations and renovations, but its commitment to luxury and hospitality has remained unwavering. The Waldorf Astoria has welcomed numerous celebrities, dignitaries, and notable guests, cementing its status as one of the world’s premier hotels. [Back]
Further Reading
Sources
- “Why a Waldorf Salad Is Called a Waldorf Salad” https://www.foodnetwork.com/fn-dish/news/2017/03/why-a-waldorf-salad-is-called-a-waldorf-salad
- Waldorf Salad.” The Waldorf Astoria. https://waldorfnewyork.com/dining/waldorf-salad/
- “Waldorf Salad.” The Spruce Eats. https://www.thespruceeats.com/classic-waldorf-salad-4684113
- “Waldorf Astoria New York.” Hilton. https://waldorfastoria3.hilton.com/en/hotels/new-york/waldorf-astoria-new-york-NYCWAWA/index.html
- Landmarks Preservation Commission. (2017). “Waldorf Astoria Hotel Designation Report.” New York City. https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/WALDORF-ASTORIA-HOTEL.pdf
