Zesty Ham & Herb Salad

Name: Zesty Ham & Herb Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked ham, diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're looking for a salad that's as refreshing as it is satisfying, this Zesty Ham & Herb Salad is your new best friend. It's a perfect balance of savory ham, crisp veggies, and a tangy-herbaceous dressing that will leave you coming back for more. Whether it's a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this salad shines in any setting.

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Ingredients for Zesty Ham & Herb Salad

Ham: The star of the show, providing a savory, meaty base that’s hearty and filling. Opt for a cooked ham that you love, whether it's leftover from a holiday meal or a store-bought option.

Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy dressing that binds the salad together. It adds richness without overpowering other flavors.

Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile, making the dressing pop.

Celery: Adds a satisfying crunch and freshness, balancing the creaminess of the dressing.

Red onion: Lends a subtle sharpness and color, brightening up each bite.

Fresh parsley: Infuses a hint of earthiness and vibrant color, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.

Fresh dill: Imparts a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the ham.

Lemon juice: Enhances the dressing with a zesty tang, lifting and brightening the entire dish.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, allowing the flavors to come together harmoniously.

Tips & Tricks

If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
For an extra crunch, add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts just before serving.
Chill the salad longer for a more pronounced flavor meld — it tastes even better the next day!

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or a simple green side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it as a filling in a wrap or sandwich. It’s also perfect for picnics or potlucks, where it can be a standout dish on the buffet table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other herbs instead of dill?: Absolutely! Try substituting dill with basil or chives for a different flavor twist.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?: Stored in an airtight container, it should last 3 to 4 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What type of ham works best?: Any cooked ham that you enjoy eating will work well. Smoked ham adds a delightful depth of flavor.

Zesty Ham & Herb Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients — it makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything. Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your diced ham, celery, and red onion. Use a spoon to mix them gently until evenly distributed.

Next, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth, well-blended dressing. You’ll notice the dressing has a beautiful, herby aroma that’s quite inviting.

Pour the dressing over the ham mixture. Slowly stir everything together, ensuring each piece is well-coated with that creamy, zesty dressing. This is where the magic happens; the flavors start melding together beautifully.

Once mixed, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the ham may already be salty, so adjust carefully. Transfer the salad to the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes — this step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the salad to reach the perfect serving temperature.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfectly balances flavors with just the right amount of zest.
Quick to prepare — ready in under 15 minutes, plus chilling time.
A great way to use up leftover ham, preventing food waste.
Fresh herbs add a delightful burst of flavor and aroma.
Customizable — easy to tweak based on what's in your fridge.

Ingredients

1 lb cooked ham, diced

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 stalks celery, finely chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

1 tsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, celery, and red onion.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill.

3. Pour the dressing over the ham mixture and stir until well combined.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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