Easy Ham Salad Recipe
Ham salad, a classic comfort food, has the power to transport us back to simpler times. This modern take on an old-fashioned ham salad recipe combines diced ham, fresh celery, tangy pickles, and creamy mayonnaise. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect as a sandwich filling or an appetizer with crackers.
If you’re a fan of classic salads like tuna salad, chicken salad, or egg salad, you’re in for a treat with this versatile ham salad recipe. It’s not just a delicious standalone dish but an easy way to repurpose leftover holiday ham.
Let’s dive into this quick and easy ham salad recipe.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces diced ham
- ½ cup celery, diced (about 2 stalks)
- ½ cup dill pickles, diced (about 3 pickles)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, diced celery, diced dill pickles, and mayonnaise.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
- Season the ham mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more or less as needed.
- Refrigerate the ham salad in an airtight container for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive mixture.
Storage
Leftover ham salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Variations and Substitutions
- Ham Options: If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal, this recipe is the perfect way to make the most of it. If you don’t have leftover ham and cannot find diced ham, you can use a ham steak. Either way, simply dice the ham and follow the recipe as instructed.
- Miracle Whip Substitution: If you’re a fan of Miracle Whip and prefer its slightly tangy flavor, you can easily substitute it in place of mayonnaise. This will give your ham salad a different but equally delicious twist.
- Sweet Relish Option: For those who prefer a sweeter note in their salad, consider omitting the pickles and celery, and use sweet pickle relish instead. This simple swap adds a delightful sweetness to the mix.
- Crunch and Flavor Boost: To add extra crunch and flavor, you can add some extra ingredients. Red peppers, with their crispness and vibrant color, bring a refreshing crunch. Red onion or sweet onion can contribute a mild, sweet bite that complements the ham’s richness. Customize this recipe to your taste by incorporating these fresh additions.
Feel free to use these variations and substitutions to personalize this and cater to different preferences.
Ways to Enjoy
- Ham Salad Sandwich: Spread this delectable ham salad between two slices of your favorite bread, add some crisp lettuce, and you’ve got yourself a mouthwatering ham salad sandwich. explore creative options by pairing the ham salad with Hawaiian rolls and slider buns for a unique twist on sliders.
- Appetizer with Crackers: Transform your ham into an appetizer by serving it with a variety of crackers. The combination of creamy salad and crunchy crackers offers a delightful contrast in textures.
- Low-Carb Option: Embrace a low-carb approach by wrapping the delectable ham salad in fresh, crisp lettuce leaves. This provides a crunchy, satisfying alternative that’s perfect for those watching their carb intake.
Whether you savor it between slices of bread or on a cracker, it’s a comfort food that reminds us of home-cooked goodness. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a batch of this beloved dish and share its delicious charm with friends and family. Enjoy the simple pleasures of life with a spoonful of homemade ham salad.
Can I freeze ham salad?
Freezing ham salad is not recommended, as the mayonnaise or dressing can separate and change in texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What is the difference between deviled ham and ham salad?
While the two are very similar, they vary in their texture. Deviled ham is finely chopped in a food processor to create a somewhat smooth consistency. On the other hand, ham salad is more coarsely chopped or diced and has a chunkier texture.
Ham Salad
Ingredients
- 16 ounces diced ham
- ½ cup celery diced (about 2 stalks)
- ½ cup dill pickles diced (about 3 pickles)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, diced celery, diced dill pickles, and mayonnaise.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
- Season the ham mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more or less as needed.
- Refrigerate the ham salad in an airtight container for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive mixture.
