Ham salad is a delicious, creamy, and protein-packed dish that can be enjoyed as a sandwich filling, dip, or spread. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham and create a flavorful dish that everyone will love. With the perfect combination of savory ham, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing, this ham salad is a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, depending on ham’s saltiness)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Use a sharp knife or food processor to finely chop the cooked ham. Make sure it has a slightly coarse texture but isn’t too chunky.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in the chopped celery, red bell pepper, and green onions. These ingredients add crunch and fresh flavors to the salad.
- Incorporate the Ham: Gently fold the chopped ham into the dressing mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the ham evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Optional Addition: If using a hard-boiled egg, chop it finely and mix it into the salad for added texture and richness.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the ham salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more lemon juice for tanginess or mayonnaise for extra creaminess.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the ham salad as a sandwich filling with fresh bread, as a dip with crackers, or on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
This homemade ham salad is a fantastic dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you need a quick lunch, a party appetizer, or a protein-rich snack, this recipe delivers on flavor and texture. Give it a try, and enjoy a timeless classic with a homemade touch!