This ham salad spread is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip, it combines the savory flavors of ham with the creamy texture of mayonnaise and the tangy kick of mustard. It's a quick and easy recipe that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you might need to pick up sweet pickle relish and celery if they are not already in your kitchen. Sweet pickle relish adds a unique sweetness and tanginess that balances the savory ham. Fresh celery provides a nice crunch and freshness to the spread.
Ingredients For Ham Salad Spread Recipe
Ham: Finely chopped cooked ham serves as the main protein and flavor base for this spread.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind all the ingredients together.
Mustard: Provides a tangy flavor that complements the ham.
Sweet pickle relish: Adds sweetness and a bit of tang to the spread.
Onion: Finely chopped to add a bit of sharpness and depth of flavor.
Celery: Finely chopped to add crunch and freshness.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the spread.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the dish.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the ham for this recipe, ensure it is finely chopped to achieve a smooth and cohesive spread. Using a food processor can help achieve the desired texture quickly and efficiently. Additionally, for a more flavorful result, consider using leftover baked ham instead of deli ham, as it often has a richer taste.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
cooked ham - Substitute with cooked turkey: Provides a similar texture and flavor, especially if you use smoked turkey.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Offers a creamy consistency with fewer calories and added protein.
mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Adds a bit more complexity and a slight tang to the spread.
sweet pickle relish - Substitute with chopped dill pickles: Provides a similar crunch and tanginess without the sweetness.
finely chopped onion - Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Adds a milder, slightly sweeter onion flavor.
finely chopped celery - Substitute with finely chopped bell pepper: Adds a similar crunch and a bit of sweetness.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor along with the saltiness.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store / Freeze This Recipe
- Store your ham salad spread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
- Place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back, to keep the spread at a consistent temperature.
- For optimal flavor and texture, consume the ham salad spread within 3 to 5 days. Beyond this period, the quality may decline.
- If you wish to freeze the spread, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
- When ready to use, thaw the ham salad spread in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- After thawing, give the spread a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients and restore its creamy texture.
- Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the mayonnaise and vegetables in the spread, but the flavor should remain delightful.
- For a quick refresh, add a small dollop of fresh mayonnaise and a pinch of salt and pepper after thawing to enhance the taste and consistency.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Gently warm the ham salad spread in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the mayonnaise from separating.
- Place the ham salad spread in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the ham salad spread evenly in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature.
- For a quick and easy method, use a double boiler. Place the ham salad spread in the top part of the double boiler and gently heat over simmering water, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the ingredients together.
Knife: Essential for finely chopping the ham, onion, and celery.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the correct amount of ham and mayonnaise.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the mustard, pickle relish, onion, and celery.
Spatula: Useful for mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Refrigerator: Needed to chill the ham salad spread before serving.
Serving dish: For presenting the ham salad spread once it's ready to serve.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-chop ingredients: Prepare the ham, onion, and celery in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop the ham and vegetables using a food processor to save time.
Batch make: Double or triple the recipe and store extra ham salad spread in the fridge for future use.
Pre-measure condiments: Measure out the mayonnaise, mustard, and pickle relish beforehand to streamline the mixing process.
Chill efficiently: Place the ham salad spread in a shallow container to speed up chilling time.
Ham Salad Spread Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked Ham finely chopped
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Mustard
- 1 tablespoon Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 tablespoon Onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Celery finely chopped
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, onion, and celery.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts
More Amazing Recipes to Try 🙂
- Wet Burritos Recipe50 Minutes
- Pancit Recipe35 Minutes
- Cincinnati Chili Recipe2 Minutes
- Baked Pasta Recipe45 Minutes
- Spaghetti Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes Recipe1 Hours
- Tomato and Garlic Pasta Recipe30 Minutes
- Italian Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs Recipe1 Hours
- Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe Recipe25 Minutes
Leave a Reply