Every time I make this Easy Ham Salad, it brings back fond memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons spent on the porch. The smell of fresh ingredients and the laughter around the table fill my heart with warmth. I want to share this recipe with you because I know it can spark those special moments in your home too. This dish is perfect for using up leftovers from holiday hams or simply enjoying a delicious meal any time of the year. Whether you’re busy during the week or preparing for a weekend picnic, this salad is a go-to that I can’t recommend enough!
How to make Easy Ham Salad
Ingredients:
- Finely chopped ham: The star of the dish! Leftover holiday ham works beautifully here.
- Onions: I prefer sweet onions for their milder flavor, but any onion will do.
- Celery: Adds a nice crunch that balances the creaminess.
- Sweet relish: It gives that perfect hint of sweetness that lifts the other flavors.
- Dill weed: A touch of herbaceousness that adds freshness.
- Mayonnaise: This is what binds everything together. You could use Greek yogurt for a lighter version if you prefer.
- Mustard: Just a hint adds a little zing! I love using Dijon, but yellow mustard works too.
Cooking Steps
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Gather all your ingredients: Start by gathering everything you’ll need. It makes the process smoother, trust me!
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Chop the ham: Finely chop your leftover ham into small pieces. You want them to be small enough to mix in well, yet big enough to be noticed.
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Chop the onions: Dice the onions finely. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their flavor.
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Dice the celery: Chop the celery into small evenly-sized pieces for that satisfying crunch.
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Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, toss together your chopped ham, onions, celery, and sweet relish. This is where the magic starts!
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Add herbs and seasonings: Sprinkle in the dill weed, and stir to distribute those lovely flavors evenly.
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Mix in mayonnaise: Now, add the mayonnaise. Start with a few heaping tablespoons and add more if you like it creamier.
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Stir in mustard: Don’t forget the mustard; mix it in until everything is well combined.
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Taste test: Time to taste your salad! Adjust seasonings as necessary. Maybe you want a touch more relish? Go for it!
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Chill: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Prepare to serve: When you’re ready, you can serve it on slices of bread for a delightful sandwich or alongside fresh crackers.
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Enjoy! I love watching my family dig in, their faces lighting up at the first bite. It truly warms my heart.
Why I Love Making This Dish
Easy Ham Salad is special to me because it is so versatile! You can serve it for lunch, dinner, or even as a picnic snack. I fondly remember making this salad with my daughter when she was little, teaching her how to mix and taste along the way. It’s a simple meal that allows for creativity in the kitchen. That’s why I believe you’ll love making it too!
What You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t call for any fancy tools—a bowl and a mixing spoon are all you need. If you have a sharp knife and a cutting board, you’re in business! Sometimes I even throw in a mix of playful colors with bell peppers or carrots to make it more vibrant. Remember, cooking should be fun!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Here’s a little tip from me: if you’re looking to make this salad even healthier, swap out half of the mayonnaise for some Greek yogurt.
- If you enjoy a touch of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños!
- Make sure to give it enough time to chill; flavors intensify when they mingle in the fridge!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love serving Easy Ham Salad on a light, fresh bed of greens, like spinach or mixed lettuce. It can also be piled high on a hearty slice of whole-grain bread or served with crunchy crackers. Pair it with some fresh fruit like grapes or slices of melon to create a beautiful summer picnic spread.
Leftovers
Ah, the joys of leftovers! If you have any salad remaining, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for a couple of days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a stir. I sometimes add a dash more mayo to freshen it up!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey instead of ham? Absolutely! Turkey salad is just as delicious. You can also use chicken if that’s what you have on hand! You really can’t go wrong.
How long does this salad keep? When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about three days in the fridge. Just remember to check for freshness before diving in!
Can I make this in advance? Definitely! In fact, I find that making it a day ahead lets the flavors come together even more beautifully.
What if I don’t have dill weed? If you don’t have dill weed, you can try fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Can I add cheese? Oh, cheese can make everything better! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can add a delightful creaminess and depth to your salad.
This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it! I know once you whip up this Easy Ham Salad, your family will adore it just as mine does. It’s quick, simple, and brimming with flavor. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! When your loved ones are asking for seconds, you’ll see how rewarding it is to serve a dish made with love. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking. You’re going to love this!