Savory Ham Salad with a Tangy Twist Recipe

Elevate your lunch or picnic spread with this delightful ham salad recipe, featuring tender ham, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing that adds a refreshing twist. Perfectly balanced with creaminess and a hint of tang, this ham salad is versatile enough to serve on its own, in a sandwich, or on a bed of greens. With easy-to-find ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced (preferably leftover ham or deli ham)
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 cup diced pickles (dill or sweet, based on preference)
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tang)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (for sweetness)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for an extra kick)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Start by dicing the cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces.
    • Finely chop the celery, red bell pepper, and green onions. If using, shred the carrots and dice the pickles.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine the Salad:
    • Add the diced ham, chopped vegetables, and pickles to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ham salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
    • Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley.
  5. Enjoy:
    • Serve the ham salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Enjoy the crunchy, creamy, and tangy flavors!

Tips for a Tasty Variation:

  • Add Fresh Herbs: Consider incorporating fresh dill or thyme for a burst of herbal freshness.
  • Make it Spicy: For those who love a kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
  • Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for added creaminess and flavor.
  • Fruit Fusion: Try adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast to the savory ham.

With its flavorful combination of ingredients and endless variations, this ham salad recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether for lunch, a picnic, or a potluck, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!

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