Old Fashioned Ham Salad Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make ham salad recipe that evokes the taste of simpler times? Look no further! This old-fashioned ham salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even lettuce wraps. It’s a versatile dish that's both nostalgic and refreshingly simple. This recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients and a simple preparation method that allows the natural flavors of the ham to shine. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch.
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced (Choose a good quality ham for the best flavor!)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped (For extra richness and protein)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, or to taste (Adjust to your desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the ham)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (Provides a subtle, savory depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (Adds a refreshing crunch)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion (Optional, for a slight sharpness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (Season to perfection!)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple instructions to create a perfectly creamy and flavorful old-fashioned ham salad.
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Prepare the Ham: Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the ham is completely cooled before mixing. Using leftover ham is an excellent way to avoid food waste!
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Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion (if using). Consistency is key for a smooth, well-blended ham salad.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced ham, chopped eggs, mayonnaise, pickle relish, mustard, celery, and red onion.
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Season and Mix: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Don't overmix, as this can make the salad mushy.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste and texture. Serve on your favorite bread, crackers, or lettuce cups.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of honey or sugar can balance the tangy flavors.
- Herbs for flavor: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can add a burst of freshness.
- Cream cheese alternative: Substitute cream cheese for some of the mayonnaise for a richer, creamier salad.
- Make it ahead: This ham salad can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile ham salad is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Classic Ham Salad Sandwich: Serve on your favorite bread with lettuce and tomato.
- Ham Salad Croissants: Fill buttery croissants with the ham salad for a sophisticated touch.
- Ham Salad Lettuce Wraps: A lighter, healthier option for a refreshing summer meal.
- Ham Salad Stuffed Tomatoes: Hollow out tomatoes and fill them with ham salad for a visually appealing appetizer.
- Ham Salad Pinwheels: Spread the ham salad on tortillas, roll them up tightly, slice, and serve.
This old-fashioned ham salad recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media! Happy cooking!
