Old Fashioned Ham Salad Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food

The aroma of creamy, tender ham salad brings back memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. This isn't just any ham salad; this is an old-fashioned ham salad recipe, perfected over time to deliver the ultimate taste of nostalgia. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients and a classic preparation method, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even lettuce cups.

Ingredients for the Best Old Fashioned Ham Salad

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, emphasizing quality over quantity for the best flavor profile. Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference!

• 1 lb Cooked Ham: Choose a high-quality ham, either bone-in or boneless. Dice it into ½-inch cubes. Avoid using overly processed ham; the flavor will be significantly better with a more natural ham.
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise. The richness of the mayonnaise is crucial to the overall texture and taste. Consider using Duke's or another brand known for its creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup Sweet Pickle Relish: Sweet pickle relish adds a delightful tanginess that balances the richness of the ham and mayonnaise. Adjust to your preference.
• 2 Tablespoons Yellow Mustard: A touch of yellow mustard enhances the savory notes of the ham and complements the relish perfectly. Dijon mustard can be substituted for a sharper flavor.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped Celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch and a slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the relish.
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped Onion: A small amount of finely chopped onion provides a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor. Use red onion for a milder flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best!

How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, flavorful ham salad that will impress your friends and family.

Step 1: Prepare the Ham: Dice the cooked ham into ½-inch cubes. Ensure the ham is relatively dry before mixing; excess moisture will make the salad watery.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced ham, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, celery, onion, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Mix Gently: Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can break down the ham and make the salad mushy.

Step 4: Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the ham salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is highly recommended but not strictly necessary.

Serving Suggestions for Your Old Fashioned Ham Salad

This versatile ham salad can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Classic Ham Salad Sandwiches: Serve on your favorite bread, croissants, or rolls.
• Ham Salad Croissants: A delightful and elegant way to serve the ham salad.
• Lettuce Wraps: A lighter, healthier option perfect for a summer picnic.
• Crackers: Serve with your favorite crackers for a simple appetizer.
• On a bed of greens: A more sophisticated presentation perfect for a luncheon.

Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Ham Salad

• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the ham salad will taste.
• Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the salad mushy.
• Adjust seasonings to your taste: Add more or less salt, pepper, relish, or mustard to suit your preferences.
• Get creative with additions: Consider adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, grapes, or apples for extra flavor and texture.

This old-fashioned ham salad recipe is a timeless classic that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family! Let us know in the comments how your old-fashioned ham salad turns out!