Get ready to elevate your lunch game with this delightful Country-Style Ham Salad. Bursting with flavors of savory ham, crunchy celery, and tangy relish, this salad offers a rustic charm that’s perfect for picnics, brunches, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Follow along as we guide you through creating this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs thick slab ham, fully cooked and roughly chopped
- 1 large hard-boiled egg
- ½ cup celery, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon white onion, finely diced
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet relish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Bread or crackers for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cooked ham into rough chunks. Similarly, chop the celery and finely dice the white onion. Set aside.
- Hard-Boil the Egg:
- Place the egg in a pot of cold water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, cover the pot and remove it from the heat. Let the egg sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes.
- After the time is up, transfer the egg to a bowl of ice water to cool completely. Once cooled, peel and chop the egg.
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, chopped egg, celery, and diced onion.
- Add the mayonnaise, sweet relish, Dijon mustard, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ham salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, serve the ham salad on bread slices or with crackers for a delightful lunch or snack.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Texture Variation: For a chunkier salad, chop the ingredients into larger pieces. For a smoother texture, finely dice the ingredients.
- Add Some Heat: Spice up your ham salad by adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Nutty Twist: For added crunch and flavor, toss in some chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use leftover ham for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Leftover cooked ham works perfectly in this recipe. Simply chop it up and proceed with the instructions.
Q: How long does ham salad last in the refrigerator? A: Stored in an airtight container, ham salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. Just note that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the ham salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your ham salad by adding ingredients like diced pickles, shredded cheese, or chopped herbs.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Mayonnaise: Use a keto-friendly mayonnaise made with avocado oil or olive oil.
- Sweet Relish: Look for sugar-free or low-carb sweet relish options.
- Serving: Enjoy the ham salad on lettuce wraps or with low-carb crackers instead of bread.
In conclusion, Country-Style Ham Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a party appetizer, or a midday snack, its rustic charm and delicious taste are sure to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the simple elegance of this delightful salad!
