Ham Salad

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Ham Salad is the kind of retro-style comfort food that never really left our hearts. Creamy, tangy, salty, and just the right amount of sweet, it transforms leftover ham into something you actually crave. Whether you’re making sandwiches for a picnic, prepping easy lunches for the week, or just want a snack that tastes like your grandma made it, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

What makes this dish so special is its versatility. You can finely chop everything for a spreadable consistency or leave it chunkier for a heartier texture. And the ingredients are everyday staples, so chances are you already have what you need in your fridge and pantry. Ham Salad is quick to make and even quicker to disappear.

Why You’ll Love This Ham Salad

This recipe is a nostalgic favorite that doesn’t feel outdated. It’s protein-packed, perfect for meal prep, and has that classic deli flavor that hits the spot every time. Make it your own by adding pickles, swapping mustard styles, or even tossing in a little hot sauce.

Ham Salad also stores well, making it a smart make-ahead option for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps. It comes together in minutes and tastes even better after it chills.

What Kind of Ham Should I Use?

You can use leftover baked ham, spiral ham, smoked ham, or even thick-cut deli ham in this recipe. The key is to finely dice or pulse it in a food processor for your preferred consistency. Avoid overly sweet varieties like honey-glazed ham if you want a more savory profile. If you have ham with a bit of fat on it, keep some in for extra flavor and creaminess.

Ingredients for the Ham Salad

This ham salad is made with classic deli-inspired ingredients that blend into a creamy and satisfying mix. Each one plays a part in balancing saltiness, tang, and a hint of crunch.

• Ham
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Celery
• Red onion
• Sweet pickle relish
• Hard-boiled egg
• Salt and pepper

How To Make the Ham Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ham

Roughly chop your ham or pulse it in a food processor until you reach your desired texture. Some like it super fine for spreading, others leave it a little chunky.

Step 2: Dice the Veggies

Finely chop the celery and red onion. This adds a fresh crunch that cuts through the richness.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the chopped ham, celery, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and chopped hard-boiled egg. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Season and Chill

Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

Serve on bread, crackers, croissants, or tucked into lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

How to Serve and Store This Ham Salad

Ham Salad is perfect for make-ahead lunches, weekend picnics, or a quick no-fuss dinner. This recipe makes enough to serve 4 to 6 people depending on how you use it. As a sandwich filling, it can stretch to about six servings, but if you’re scooping it over greens or serving as a dip with crackers, it might serve four.

To store, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir it before each serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen up the texture. Freezing isn’t recommended since the mayo tends to separate once thawed.

What to Serve With Ham Salad?

H3: Butter Crackers

The crisp texture and buttery flavor of crackers pair beautifully with the creamy spread.

H3: Sliced Cucumbers

For a refreshing, low-carb crunch that doesn’t overpower the salad.

H3: Toasted Bread or Croissants

Warm, slightly crispy bread adds a comforting base to scoop or sandwich the ham salad.

H3: Deviled Eggs

Double down on the eggy goodness with deviled eggs as a tasty side.

H3: Tomato Soup

A warm bowl of tomato soup balances the cold creaminess of the salad.

H3: Dill Pickles

The sharp tang of pickles brings out the savory depth of the ham.

H3: Potato Chips

For a salty crunch that’s great either as a side or scooping vehicle.

H3: Coleslaw

Bright, acidic, and crunchy—coleslaw complements the creamy ham salad in both texture and flavor.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this ham salad, you’ll definitely want to try a few more savory salads that pack flavor and convenience:

• Classic Caprese Salad Recipe
• Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
• Zucchini Lasagna Recipe

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it when you’re in the mood for something quick, creamy, and satisfying.

Let me know in the comments how you served your ham salad. Did you go chunky or smooth? Try adding a twist like jalapeños or fresh herbs?

I love seeing how these classic recipes get remixed. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask—we’re all here to help each other eat better.

Explore more easy, everyday favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and refresh your weekly meal planning with new inspiration!

Conclusion

Ham Salad is a budget-friendly, time-saving, and flavor-packed dish that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something great. Whether you’re serving it at a party or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the fridge, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

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