Southern Ham Salad

Rich in flavor and texture, Southern Ham Salad brings a touch of traditional Southern hospitality to your table. Imagine sitting with family or friends, sharing laughter and good food. This recipe transforms leftover ham into a delightful dish, making it perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy weeknight meal. The combination of finely chopped ham, creamy mayonnaise, and sweet pickles creates a deliciously satisfying experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty sandwich. If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that delivers both taste and nostalgia, you’ve found it with Southern Ham Salad!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Ham Salad

When you take that first bite of Southern Ham Salad, you’re embracing a wave of flavor. It’s rich and creamy, and each forkful offers a delightful crunch. This dish is not just about taste; it embodies Southern hospitality, making it feel warm and inviting. Especially during get-togethers, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Alongside its economical nature, as it makes great use of leftover ham, it stands out as a go-to recipe in any kitchen. Imagine serving this vibrant salad during Sunday brunch or a casual weeknight dinner, and watching everyone dig in with smiles.

What is a Southern Ham Salad

Southern Ham Salad is a lovely mix of finely chopped ham, hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickles, and seasonings. Creamy mayonnaise ties it all together, creating a smooth and delicious dish. Rooted in Southern cuisine, this salad is not just food; it’s a tradition. Families cherish it, often bringing them together over tasty sandwiches or as a dip that sparks delightful conversations. In those moments, it’s clear why Southern Ham Salad is a staple in so many households.

Ingredients for Southern Ham Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Southern Ham Salad:

• 3 – 3 ½ cups fully cooked ham
• 1 large hard-boiled egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped sweet pickles
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 1 stalk finely chopped celery

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create something special.

How to Make Southern Ham Salad

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients. Having everything nearby makes the cooking process simple and organized. Ensure that the ham is fully cooked and cooled, as this helps with easier chopping.

Finely Chop the Ingredients

Next, you’ll want to finely chop your ham. To do this, place the ham, hard-boiled egg, sweet pickles, pickle juice, pepper, and mayonnaise in a food processor. Pulse it about 12 to 15 times, watching as the flavors blend beautifully. The goal is a finely chopped mixture that maintains a pleasing texture. You’ll love how all the flavors come together in harmony.

Mix in the Celery

Now, it’s time to add a bit of crunch. Transfer that ham mixture into a medium-sized bowl. Gently fold in the finely chopped celery. This step adds a refreshing crunch and makes your salad even more delightful. Mixing things together brings out the best in each ingredient.

Chill Before Serving

Next up, taste your mixture. Adjust any seasoning as needed because getting it just right is what it’s all about. Then, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let your Southern Ham Salad chill for at least 1 hour. This time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s finally time to serve your Southern Ham Salad, the possibilities are endless. Spread it onto slices of soft bread for a delicious sandwich, or spoon it onto crisp crackers for a delightful appetizer. You could also pair it with fresh vegetables for a healthy crunch or use it as a dip with tortilla chips. Each serving option brings a unique twist to this classic dish.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Southern Ham Salad turns out just right, consider these tips:

• Finely chop your ham for the best texture; if a food processor isn’t available, a sharp knife can do the trick.
• Chilling the salad is crucial. It not only enhances the flavors but also helps the dish come together in a wonderful way.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can play around with the recipe! Try substituting sweet pickles with dill pickles for a tangy kick. You might also consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Moreover, if you want a lighter version, swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt gives you that creaminess without the extra calories.

Storage Tips

Leftover Southern Ham Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you happen to have more than you can consume, consider freezing it. Keep in mind that while it can be frozen, the texture might change a bit when thawed.

Pairing Ideas

For the perfect pairing, consider serving your Southern Ham Salad with a glass of iced tea, a classic Southern beverage. It also goes well alongside a fresh garden salad or coleslaw, creating a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover ham for this salad?
Yes, using leftover cooked ham is ideal for this recipe.

2. How long does the Southern Ham Salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best to chill for an hour before serving but can be made a day in advance.

4. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
A vegetarian version can substitute ham with chickpeas or tofu, using similar seasonings.

5. What can I serve with ham salad for a party?
Consider serving it with a variety of crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies for dipping.

This Southern Ham Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around and enjoy good food together. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich or a dip, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction to every table. With the right balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures, it’s bound to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy every bite and embrace the joy this classic dish can bring!

More Easy Salads & Sides Recipes:

• Summer Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
• Spinach Mandarin Salad
• Chicken Salad with Grapes
• Mango Salad with Spinach and Blueberries

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Southern Ham Salad

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Southern Ham Salad is a rich and creamy dish that turns leftover ham into a delightful blend of flavors. It’s a great choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 – 3 ½ cups fully cooked ham
• 1 large hard-boiled egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped sweet pickles
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 1 stalk finely chopped celery

Instructions

• Assemble all ingredients, ensuring ham is cooked and cooled.
• Finely chop ham, egg, pickles, pickle juice, pepper, and mayonnaise in a food processor until well blended.
• Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the chopped celery.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before covering and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Notes

Finely chop the ham for the best texture; a sharp knife works if a food processor isn’t available.
Chilling enhances the flavors and helps the salad come together.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1
• Sodium: 500
• Fat: 18
• Saturated Fat: 3
• Unsaturated Fat: 12
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 5
• Fiber: 0
• Protein: 14
• Cholesterol: 65