Why You’ll Love this Ham Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, you’ll love this ham salad recipe. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when I don’t have much time to cook.
The flavors blend beautifully, thanks to the sweet relish and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. I appreciate how versatile it is; I can enjoy it on bread, crackers, or even as a dip with veggies.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham or canned ham, which I always have on hand. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Ham Salad
When it comes to whipping up a quick and tasty meal, having the right ingredients on hand makes all the difference. For this ham salad recipe, you’ll find that it’s not just about the ham; it’s about a delightful combination of flavors that come together in a matter of minutes.
Imagine this: you’re rummaging through your pantry, and voilà, there’s that can of ham waiting for a culinary adventure. And let’s not forget the mayo and relish, which are basically the dynamic duo of creamy and sweet! Trust me, once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating something truly delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need for this ham salad:
- 1 (12 1/2 ounce) can of lean ham (like Hormel Chunk Lean Ham)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet relish (hamburger style)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons finely diced onions
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a moment. You might be wondering, can I switch things up a bit? Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of sweet relish, you could try dill relish or even make your own.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, adding some chopped celery or pickles could give it a nice crunch. As for the onions, don’t be shy—if you love that oniony bite, toss in a bit more.
It’s all about making it your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment. After all, cooking is as much about creativity as it’s about following a recipe!
How to Make Ham Salad
Alright, let’s plunge into how to whip up this delightful ham salad that’s perfect for lunch, a snack, or even a picnic! First off, grab that can of ham—1 (12 1/2 ounce) can of lean ham, like Hormel Chunk Lean Ham is a great choice.
Now, you’re going to want to open it up, and here’s the fun part: take a potato masher and start breaking it down. You might be thinking, “Why not just chop?” Well, the potato masher gives it that perfectly spreadable consistency. You want it to be mixed well, but still have a bit of texture. Trust me, this is where the magic starts.
Next up, let’s add the creamy goodness. Pour in 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and get that sweet relish—1/4 cup of it—right in there too. Then, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a little kick.
Now, don’t forget those finely diced onions—3 tablespoons should do the trick. And, of course, sprinkle in some ground black pepper to taste. It’s a simple mix, but oh, the flavors are going to blend together beautifully. Just take a big spoon or spatula and stir everything until it’s well combined. If you find yourself thinking, “Wow, this looks like a delicious mess,” you’re on the right track.
Now, here comes the best part—serving it up! You can slap as much of that tasty mixture as you like between two slices of bread. Or, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, scoop it onto crackers, or even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
Honestly, the possibilities are endless, and you might just find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So, don’t stress if it isn’t perfect the first time; just enjoy the process, and soon enough, you’ll be the ham salad connoisseur of your circle. Happy eating!
Ham Salad Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic ham salad recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate the dish to new heights.
For a twist, I sometimes swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, adding a tangy flavor. Adding diced celery or apples brings in a revitalizing crunch. You could even mix in some diced pickles or mustard for an extra zing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different meats, like turkey or chicken. To spice things up, a dash of hot sauce can transform the taste.
These simple changes keep my ham salad exciting and always delicious!
What to Serve with Ham Salad
What can I serve alongside ham salad to make a complete meal? I love pairing it with crunchy potato chips or a fresh green salad for a delightful contrast.
You can’t go wrong with some sliced cucumbers or carrot sticks on the side, either; they add a crisp crunch.
For a heartier option, consider serving it with warm, toasted bread or even a croissant.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I might whip up a simple soup, like tomato or vegetable, to complement the flavors.
Each of these options enhances the meal, making it satisfying and enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
When making ham salad, I like to keep a few additional tips in mind to enhance both flavor and texture.
First, I recommend using a mix of finely diced onions and celery for that extra crunch. Adding a dash of mustard can give it a tangy kick.
If you want it creamier, don’t hesitate to adjust the mayonnaise to your liking. For a hint of sweetness, try including a bit of diced apple or crushed pineapple.
Finally, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving—it lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy your creation!