Ham salad is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, sandwich filling, or even as a dip. It combines the savory goodness of ham with creamy dressing and a little crunch from vegetables. Here’s a classic recipe, but you can always customize it to your liking!
Classic Ham Salad
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped (leftover ham works great!)
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1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard, depending on your preference)
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1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional for a little sweetness)
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1 tablespoon finely chopped onion (red onion or green onions work well)
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1/2 celery stalk, finely chopped (adds a nice crunch)
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1 boiled egg, chopped (optional, but it adds creaminess)
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the ham: If you’re using leftover ham, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. You can also pulse it in a food processor a few times for a finer texture if you prefer a smoother salad.
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Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish (if using), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
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Add the veggies and ham: Add the chopped ham, onion, celery, and chopped boiled egg (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or mustard if needed.
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Chill (optional): You can serve the ham salad immediately, but for the best flavor, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving if you like. It can be enjoyed on:
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Sandwiches: Spread on soft bread or toast.
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Crackers: As a dip or spread on your favorite crackers.
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Salads: Serve it on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a lighter option.
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Optional Add-ins & Variations:
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Cheese: Add a bit of shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese for extra richness.
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Pickles: If you like a tangy crunch, you can add finely chopped dill pickles or pickle relish instead of sweet relish.
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Spicy Kick: A dash of hot sauce, chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the salad a nice spicy twist.
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Nuts: For a bit of crunch, you can add some chopped walnuts or pecans.
This ham salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste! It’s quick to make and perfect for using up leftover ham. Let me know if you need any more ideas or adjustments!
