Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: the Classic Ham Salad Recipe! This delightful spread has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I can still picture my grandma whipping it up in the kitchen, the smell of diced ham mingling with creamy mayonnaise wafting through the air. It’s such a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or even a last-minute dinner party. I love how versatile it is—you can serve it on bread for a sandwich, on crackers for an appetizer, or even on crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this classic ham salad has a special place in my heart (and stomach!).
Ingredients List
2 cups diced ham (make sure it’s nice and chunky for that perfect texture)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (I like to use a good quality mayo for creaminess)
1/4 cup diced celery (this adds a refreshing crunch—don’t skip it!)
1/4 cup diced onion (for that zesty kick; you can use green onions if you prefer)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (this really elevates the flavor—trust me on this one)
Salt to taste (I usually start with a pinch and adjust as needed)
Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is always the best for flavor)
How to Prepare the Classic Ham Salad Recipe
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious Classic Ham Salad! It’s super easy and quick, which is one of the reasons I love it so much. You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple steps can create such a tasty dish. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, diced celery, and diced onion. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
Add the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to the bowl. This is where the magic happens—mix it all until it’s creamy and well combined. You want every bite to be flavorful!
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a little and adjust as you go. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, give it another gentle stir, and it’s ready to go! Enjoy it on your favorite bread, crackers, or even lettuce leaves for a fresh bite.
And there you have it! A simple yet satisfying classic ham salad that’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Happy cooking!
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this Classic Ham Salad Recipe! Keep in mind that the specific values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you choose, so these are just typical estimates. Each serving of this delightful spread (about 1/2 cup) packs around 250 calories, with 20 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein. It also contains about 5 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of sugar. The sodium content is on the higher side, at about 800 mg, so just be mindful if you’re watching your salt intake. Overall, it’s a satisfying, protein-packed option that’s sure to keep you fueled throughout your day. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This classic ham salad comes together in just a few minutes—perfect for busy days!
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of items, you likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich, a dip with crackers, or a fresh salad, this recipe has you covered.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it for lunches throughout the week!
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit at gatherings, barbecues, and potlucks—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Classic Ham Salad Recipe turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by:
Use leftover ham: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose any leftover ham you have from a holiday feast. It adds even more flavor!
Chill, chill, chill: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Play with textures: If you want added crunch, toss in some diced pickles or chopped nuts. They add a fun surprise!
Mustard variations: Feel free to swap out the Dijon for honey mustard or even a spicy brown mustard if you’re feeling adventurous.
Adjust to your taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings. A dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile.
With these tips, I promise you’ll have a ham salad that everyone will rave about!
Variations on the Classic Ham Salad Recipe
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are so many delicious ways to mix things up with this Classic Ham Salad Recipe! Here are a few of my favorite variations:
Fruity Twist: Add some diced apples or crushed pineapple for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of freshness that elevates the whole dish.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a spoonful of horseradish or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Mustard Medley: Experiment with different types of mustard—like honey mustard for sweetness or whole grain mustard for texture.
Nutty Crunch: For an extra crunch, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add a lovely texture and flavor!
These variations are not only fun but also allow you to personalize the salad to match your taste. Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful Classic Ham Salad, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it! One of my all-time favorites is to spread it generously on fresh, crusty bread for an unforgettable sandwich. You could use anything from hearty whole grain to soft white bread—whatever floats your boat! If you’re in the mood for something lighter, scoop it onto crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap. It also pairs perfectly as a dip with crunchy crackers or vegetable sticks. For a lovely presentation, serve it alongside a simple green salad or some pickles to add a tangy contrast. Trust me, your guests will love it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Classic Ham Salad is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, which makes it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. Just remember to give it a little stir before serving again, as the ingredients might settle. Now, about reheating—this salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to heat it up! Enjoy it straight from the fridge, whether on a sandwich, with crackers, or on a salad. It’s delicious every time!
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