Description
This Old-Fashioned Ham Salad recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even as a filling for deviled eggs. It’s a classic dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and potlucks. This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a tasty appetizer. The combination of chopped ham, creamy mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and a hint of mustard creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped baked ham
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon chopped sweet or white onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon brown or Dijon mustard
Preparation:
Step 1: Chop the baked ham, sweet or white onion, and celery into small, manageable chunks. The finer the chop, the better the texture of the final salad.
Step 2: Add the chopped ham, onion, and celery to the bowl of a food processor.
Step 3: Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until they are finely chopped but not completely pureed. You want to maintain some texture for a satisfying bite.
Step 4: Transfer the finely chopped ham mixture to a mixing bowl.
Step 5: Add the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and mustard to the bowl.
Step 6: Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad too mushy.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sweet pickle relish. For a tangier flavor, add a touch more mustard.
Step 8: Transfer the ham salad to an airtight container.
Step 9: Store the ham salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the salad to chill, making it more refreshing.
Step 10: Serve chilled and enjoy on your favorite bread, crackers, or as a filling for deviled eggs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ham salad recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to make. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover baked ham, reducing food waste and creating a delicious meal. The balance of flavors—salty ham, sweet relish, and tangy mustard—is perfectly balanced. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit at parties and family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sandwiches: Spread the ham salad between slices of your favorite bread, such as white, wheat, or rye. Add lettuce and tomato for extra flavor and texture.
- Crackers: Serve the ham salad with an assortment of crackers for a quick and easy appetizer.
- Deviled Eggs: Use the ham salad as a filling for deviled eggs for a unique twist on a classic dish.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the ham salad in lettuce wraps.
- Celery Sticks: Fill celery sticks with ham salad for a healthy and crunchy snack.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use high-quality baked ham rather than deli ham.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency.
- If you don’t have sweet pickle relish, you can use finely chopped sweet pickles instead.
- Add a chopped hard-boiled egg for extra protein and richness.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Chill the ham salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- When pulsing in the food processor, avoid over-processing to maintain a desirable texture.
- Store the ham salad in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: Approximately 130 kcal
- Protein: 8 grams
- Sodium: 609 mg
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Ham Salad is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The delightful combination of flavors and textures will leave you and your guests wanting more. Enjoy this classic recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use deli ham instead of baked ham?
- While baked ham is preferred for its texture and flavor, deli ham can be used in a pinch. However, the taste and texture may not be as robust.
- How long does ham salad last in the refrigerator?
- Ham salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Can I freeze ham salad?
- It is not recommended to freeze ham salad as the mayonnaise can separate and change the texture upon thawing.
- What can I add to make the ham salad spicier?
- You can add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some finely chopped jalapeños to give the ham salad a spicy kick.
- Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
- Yes, you can make this recipe without a food processor. Simply chop the ham, onion, and celery very finely by hand, ensuring that the pieces are small and uniform in size.
