Craving a savory yet satisfying lunch option? Look no further than our delectable Country-Style Ham Salad. Bursting with flavors of hearty ham, crisp celery, and tangy relish, this salad brings a touch of rustic charm to your table. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or simply looking for a delicious midday meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Follow along as we guide you through creating this mouthwatering dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
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!
