Traditional Ham Salad

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
Be the First to Review!

This Traditional Ham Salad is a nostalgic favorite that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for using up leftover ham, it blends savory, creamy, and tangy flavors in a way that's sure to win you over every time.

Ingredients for Traditional Ham Salad

Ham: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and savory base. Use any cooked ham you have on hand, but a smoked variety adds extra depth.

Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy binder, bringing everything together while adding richness.

Celery: Offers a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements.

Red Onion: Adds a sharp, pungent bite that balances the sweetness of the relish.

Dijon Mustard: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of tang and spice.

Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds a sweet, tangy zest that complements the savory ham.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust according to your taste.

Fresh Parsley: Used as a final touch, it adds freshness and a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Use a food processor to quickly chop your ham if you prefer a finer texture.
  • Double the recipe for larger gatherings β€” it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Serving Suggestions

This ham salad is incredibly versatile! Spoon it onto toasted bread for a classic sandwich or wrap it in a tortilla with some leafy greens for a fresh wrap. It also makes a great dip for crackers or a topping for a green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze ham salad?
It’s best to enjoy ham salad fresh. Freezing may alter the texture of the mayonnaise and vegetables.
How long can I store ham salad in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Traditional Ham Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large bowl, add the diced ham, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. You want that creamy dressing to coat every piece of ham.

Take a moment to taste your mix. Add salt and black pepper as needed. Remember, the ham can be quite salty on its own, so start small and adjust as you go.

Once seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl with some plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial as it allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

When you're ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir. Sprinkle with fresh parsley right before serving for that touch of freshness and a vibrant finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation β€” ready in under 15 minutes before chilling.
  • Perfect for using leftover ham, reducing food waste.
  • A versatile dish that can be served as a sandwich, wrap, or snack.
  • Balanced flavors with a delightful crunch from fresh veggies.

Ingredients

2 cups diced cooked ham
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish.
2. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!