If you’re craving a delightful mix of savory and sweet, this Savory Apple Ham Salad Spread is your answer. It’s a refreshing twist on classic ham salad, perfect for a light lunch or a hearty snack. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Ham: The star of the show, adding a rich, savory base. Use leftovers or buy pre-cooked for convenience.
Tart apple: Provides a crisp texture and a sweet-tart flavor, balancing the savory ham. Granny Smith is ideal here.
Celery: Adds crunch and a touch of freshness, complementing the other flavors.
Red onion: Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor, making the salad more savory and aromatic.
Mayonnaise: Binds everything together with its creamy texture.
Dijon mustard: Introduces a tangy bite, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
Honey: Balances the mustard's sharpness with a hint of sweetness.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity to brighten the salad.
Black pepper and salt: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in each ingredient.
This spread is versatile! It’s perfect between slices of rustic bread for a hearty sandwich. For an elegant appetizer, serve it on thinly sliced baguette rounds or crunchy crackers. Pair with a light green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Start by taking out a large mixing bowl. Dice 2 cups of cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces and toss them into the bowl. Follow this with half a cup of diced tart apple — Granny Smith works well here for its crisp texture and tartness. Add a quarter cup of chopped celery and two tablespoons of finely chopped red onion to the mix. These veggies will bring some crunch and a touch of spice.
In a separate small bowl, we’re going to whip up the dressing. Combine a quarter cup of mayonnaise with a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add a tablespoon each of honey and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in an eighth teaspoon of ground black pepper and a dash of salt to taste. Stir until everything’s blended smoothly.
Pour the dressing over the ham mixture in your larger bowl. Gently stir everything until the ham, apple, and veggies are well coated with the creamy dressing. Cover the bowl and stick it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.