Introduction
Ham salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the savory flavor of ham with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the creaminess of dressing. Perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a party appetizer, this ham salad recipe is simple to prepare and offers a delicious way to use leftover ham. With a mix of mayonnaise, relish, and mustard, it strikes a perfect balance between flavor and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 cups diced ham
2 celery stalks, finely diced
3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
¾ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons sweet relish (or dill relish)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy your delicious ham salad chilled on buns, in wraps, or accompanied by crackers for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Mince the Ham
Place the diced ham into a food processor. Pulse briefly until the ham is finely minced but not pureed.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the minced ham to a large mixing bowl. Add the finely diced celery and red onion.
Step 3: Add Condiments
Incorporate the mayonnaise, sweet relish, Dijon mustard, and ground black pepper into the mixture.
Step 4: Mix Thoroughly
Stir all ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Chill for Flavor
For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the ham salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve the Ham Salad
Serve the ham salad chilled. It can be enjoyed on buns, in wraps, or with crackers.
Notes
Ingredient Variation
Feel free to use either sweet relish or dill relish based on your taste preference.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
This ham salad is versatile and can be served in various ways such as on toasted bread, in a lettuce wrap, or as a dip with chips.
Cook techniques
Chopping
Chop the ham, celery, and onion into small, even pieces before combining for a uniform texture.
Processing
Use a food processor to finely mince the ham, ensuring it maintains some texture without turning into a puree.
Mixing
Thoroughly mix the ingredients in a large bowl for balanced flavor distribution.
Chilling
Refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour to enhance and meld the flavors before serving.
Serving
Serve the chilled ham salad on buns, in wraps, or with crackers for various enjoyable presentations.
FAQ
Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Yes, leftover ham is perfect for this ham salad recipe.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or avocado can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
Is there a way to make it spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
How long can I store the ham salad in the refrigerator?
The ham salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, you can add ingredients like diced bell peppers, hard-boiled eggs, or pickles for additional flavor.
Conclusion
This delicious ham salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With a mix of savory ham, crunchy celery, and zesty additions, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Serve it in various ways for a satisfying meal or snack.
Classic Avocado Toast
Top toasted bread with mashed avocado, sprinkle some salt, and add a layer of ham salad for a tasty breakfast or brunch option.
Ham Salad Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb alternative, wrap the ham salad in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing and healthy meal.
Cheesy Ham Salad Dip
Mix in some shredded cheese and serve the ham salad as a dip alongside tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Combine the ham salad with cooked rice or quinoa, stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers, and bake until heated through.
Ham Salad Sandwiches
Spread the ham salad generously between slices of bread or in a pita for a hearty sandwich option. Add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.
Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
Spread the ham salad onto slices of cheese, roll them up, and secure with a toothpick for a quick and easy appetizer.
