Deviled Ham Salad: A Perfect Make-Ahead Appetizer or Quick Lunch
Deviled Ham Salad is a savory and flavorful dish that combines the richness of ham with a tangy and creamy dressing. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for quick lunches, appetizers, or even as a spread for crackers or toast. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to use up leftover ham, turning it into a delicious and easy-to-make meal that your family and guests will love.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delightful deviled ham salad.
Ingredients for Deviled Ham Salad
To make the deviled ham salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped or ground: You can use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham from your local deli. The finer the chop or grind, the smoother your salad will be.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: This is the base of your dressing. Adjust the amount to your liking for creaminess.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the ham.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A little goes a long way in enhancing the umami flavor of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon fennel seed: A subtle herb that adds a unique touch to the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a little heat to balance the creaminess. Feel free to adjust to taste or omit it if you prefer a milder version.
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish: Adds sweetness and tang, giving the salad a lovely contrast to the savory ham.
- 2 tablespoons onion, finely chopped: Provides a nice crunch and a slight bite.
- 1 tablespoon celery, finely chopped: For additional crunch and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: For seasoning.
- Garnish: Chopped parsley or chives (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Deviled Ham Salad
1. Ham Preparation
Start by finely chopping or grinding your cooked ham. You can do this easily using a food processor, or if you prefer a more rustic texture, a sharp kitchen knife works well too. The goal is to get the ham into small, uniform pieces that will blend easily into the creamy dressing.
2. Base Mixing
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat). Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mayonnaise forms the creamy base, while the mustard and Worcestershire sauce add tang and depth of flavor. The cayenne pepper, if used, gives the salad a slight kick, adding a wonderful contrast to the richness of the ham.
3. Ingredients Combining
Next, add your finely chopped ham, sweet pickle relish, onion, and celery to the dressing mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the ham is well-coated with the dressing and the other ingredients are evenly distributed. The relish adds sweetness and texture, while the onions and celery provide a crunch that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
4. Taste and Season
Once all the ingredients are mixed, it’s time to taste your deviled ham salad. If you feel it needs a little extra seasoning, add salt and black pepper to taste. You can also adjust the mayonnaise if the consistency feels too thick or add more Dijon mustard for extra tang. Remember, this dish is highly customizable, so make adjustments to suit your personal preference.
5. Post-Completion Chilling
For best results, refrigerate the deviled ham salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious. If you have time, you can also let it chill overnight. The longer it sits, the more the ingredients blend, and the flavor becomes more intense.
6. Serving Instructions
Deviled ham salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few suggestions:
- Spread on crackers: Use your favorite type of crackers as a base and spread the deviled ham salad on top. It makes for a great appetizer or snack.
- Toast with eggs: Deviled ham salad pairs wonderfully with toasted bread and eggs. Spread the salad between slices of toast or use it as a filling for deviled eggs.
- Stuffed vegetables: For a creative and healthy twist, stuff bell peppers, tomatoes, or cucumber halves with the deviled ham salad for a refreshing bite.
- As a sandwich filling: You can use this salad as a filling for sandwiches, paired with some fresh lettuce or tomato slices.
If desired, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Why Deviled Ham Salad Is a Great Choice
Deviled Ham Salad offers several advantages, making it a fantastic choice for various occasions:
- Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick appetizer.
- Make-ahead: Since the salad benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, it’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time, saving you time during events or meals.
- Versatile: You can enjoy it in so many ways, from spreading it on crackers to stuffing it into vegetables or using it as a sandwich filling.
- Budget-friendly: Using leftover ham, or even purchasing ham from your local deli, keeps the cost of this dish down while still providing a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Deviled Ham Salad is a delightful and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and savory richness, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Deviled Ham Salad!