This Zesty Tropical Ham Salad brings together the savory richness of ham with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a potluck favorite, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a touch of the tropics any time of year.
Ham provides a hearty, savory base and is a fantastic way to use up leftovers from a holiday meal. Pineapple adds juicy sweetness and a bit of tropical flair. Red bell pepper offers a crisp texture and a pop of color, while green onions introduce a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients. Cilantro adds freshness and a hint of citrusy flavor. The lime juice, olive oil, and honey create a bright and tangy dressing that ties everything together, while garlic powder, salt, and pepper add depth and seasoning. For those who like a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can be added to kick it up a notch.
This salad shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita for a light meal. For a fuller meal, serve alongside grilled shrimp skewers or a simple green salad. It’s also a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues and picnics.
First things first, take out a large bowl, which will make mixing everything a breeze. Start by adding your diced ham, pineapple, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro to the bowl. These vibrant colors are already making this dish look appetizing! In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure it’s all mixed well — you want that dressing to coat every bite.
Now, pour your dressing over the ham mixture and toss it gently. You're looking for an even coat on all your ingredients. If you're a fan of a little heat, sprinkle in those crushed red pepper flakes and give it another toss. That's it! You can serve it right away or, if you have the patience, let it chill in the fridge for an hour to let all those flavors meld together beautifully.
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