What To Know
- This timeless dish, a staple of picnics and potlucks, is a symphony of savory flavors that will transport you back in time.
- Serve the old-fashioned ham salad chilled on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables.
- Store the ham salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of yesteryear with our comprehensive guide on how to make old-fashioned ham salad. This timeless dish, a staple of picnics and potlucks, is a symphony of savory flavors that will transport you back in time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fully cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham:
Dice the fully cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the diced celery, onion, and sweet pickle relish.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced ham to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over it. Mix well to combine.
5. Refrigerate:
Cover the ham salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve:
Serve the old-fashioned ham salad chilled on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables.
Variations
- Mustard Delight: Add an extra tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a few tablespoons of brown sugar or honey for a sweet and savory balance.
- Herb Heaven: Enhance the flavors with a sprinkling of fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill.
- Creamy Dream: For a creamier texture, add a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Tips
- Use high-quality ham for the best flavor.
- Dice the vegetables finely for a more even distribution.
- Let the ham salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Experiment with different variations to find your favorite combination.
Nutritional Information
One serving of old-fashioned ham salad (1/4 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Storage
Store the ham salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The Joy of Ham Salad
Old-fashioned ham salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Its savory flavors and nostalgic appeal make it a perfect addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this classic recipe is sure to impress.
FAQ
1. Can I use deli ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use deli ham, but it may have a slightly different flavor than fully cooked ham.
2. What can I serve with ham salad?
Ham salad can be served on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables.
3. Can I freeze ham salad?
It is not recommended to freeze ham salad as it may alter the texture and flavor.
4. How do I know if ham salad has gone bad?
Ham salad should be discarded if it has an off odor, discoloration, or mold growth.
5. Can I make ham salad ahead of time?
Yes, ham salad can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
