Southern Style Ham Salad – Experience the delightful flavors of the South by trying out our Southern Style Ham Salad recipe. This incredible dish captures the essence of cuisine combining tender ham with a satisfying crunch, from pickles and celery. In 15 minutes you can create a mouthwatering entree that embodies the comforting nature of comfort food. Our recipe beautifully balances the sweetness of pickle juice with mayonnaise resulting in a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the charming landscapes of Southern kitchens.
Imagine the first time I made this Southern-style ham Salad for my family. The enticing aroma of ham filled our kitchen instantly bringing back memories from my childhood in the South. My husband’s eyes lit up as he took his first bite instantly reminded me of family gatherings and delightful Southern picnics. Even my picky child couldn’t resist the allure of this dish. Watching them enjoy each mouthful brought me joy. Created lasting memories.
What makes this Southern-style ham Salad truly extraordinary?
Savor the charm of Southern cuisine with our extraordinary Southern Style Ham Salad – a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, in every bite. In 15 minutes you can prepare a dish that flawlessly combines tender ham with the delightful crunchiness offered by sweet pickles and celery. The delightful fusion of mayonnaise and zesty pickle juice not only pleases the taste buds but also encapsulates the true essence of Southern tradition. This salad’s flexibility shines as it effortlessly transitions into sandwiches, crackers or dips making it suitable, for any dining event. With a nod to cherished memories and a contemporary touch this recipe offers not only a meal but also a heartfelt link, to the culinary heritage of the South.
What You Need To Make This Southern-Style Ham Salad Recipe?
Hard-Boiled Egg: The boiled egg adds a touch, to the ham salad providing a creamy texture and a hint of richness. When chopped into pieces it brings depth to the flavor. It’s important to boil the egg until it reaches the desired consistency for your desired results.
Diced Ham: Diced ham plays a role in this recipe bringing a meatiness to the salad. Choosing high-quality ham ensures tenderness and flavor. You can use leftover ham from a meal. Select a ham variety that matches your taste preferences.
Sweet Pickles: Sweet pickles introduce a sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the ham. Their crunch adds texture to the salad creating a blend of flavors, in every bite. Adjusting the amount of pickles allows you to tailor the sweetness level according to your liking.
Sweet Pickle Juice: Incorporating sweet pickle juice subtly enhances the flavors of the salad. It adds a tanginess that balances out the sweetness of pickles and complements the richness of ham. One tablespoon is enough to elevate its taste.
Celery: Chopped celery brings refreshment and crispness to this recipe. The mild and earthy taste of the celery goes well with the flavor of the ham and the sweet taste of the pickles. Make sure to finely chop the celery so that it blends smoothly with the ingredients.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise acts as a binder that brings all the ingredients together. Choose a high-quality mayonnaise, for a rich texture. Its tanginess complements the flavors of the ham and pickles resulting in a sensation when eaten.
Salt and Pepper: These seasonings give you an opportunity to personalize the flavor according to your liking. Adding a pinch of salt enhances the taste while a dash of pepper provides a kick. Begin with modest amounts. Adjust as necessary to find your preferred balance, for your taste buds.
Steps To Make Southern-Style Ham Salad:
Step 1: Begin by dicing the ham into small, delectable pieces that promise a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Chop the sweet pickles and combine them with the ham in a mixing bowl, bringing together their contrasting textures and tastes.
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Step 3: Should you desire a touch of seasoning, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Add in the finely chopped celery, contributing a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the hearty ham.
Step 5: It’s time to introduce the stars of creaminess and tanginess – stir in the mayonnaise and sweet pickle juice, creating a harmonious blend that binds the ingredients together.
Step 6: For those who appreciate an even finer consistency, consider pulsing the mixture 10 to 15 times in a food processor until the components are finely integrated.
Step 7: Now, mix the amalgamation in a bowl, ensuring every component is enveloped in the symphony of flavors.
Step 8: To allow the flavors to meld, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for one to two hours before serving.
Step 9: When ready to indulge, savor the Southern goodness on bread, crackers, or even as a dip. For an added layer of satisfaction, don’t hesitate to include lettuce and tomato, transforming your creation into a hearty, fulfilling sandwich.
Tip:
To enhance the depth of flavors you might want to try including a hint of Dijon mustard, in the mayonnaise blend. This subtle touch adds a tang that takes the Southern Style Ham Salad to another level creating a combination of flavors, with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use dill pickles instead of sweet pickles?
Sure! You can definitely use dill pickles instead of sweet pickles. While sweet pickles add a touch of sweetness dill pickles bring in a contrasting tanginess that might be just as appealing, to your taste buds.
Is there a recommended type of bread for serving this salad?
Absolutely! This salad goes well with artisanal bread but feel free to choose any type of bread that you prefer.
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Of course! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to blend even more. Just remember to refrigerate it until your guests are ready to enjoy it at the party.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Southern Style Ham Salad
Ingredients
- 1 hard-boiled egg chopped
- 3 to 3 ½ cups diced ham
- 2 sweet pickles chopped
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice
- 1 stalk of celery finely chopped
- ¾ cup high-quality mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cutting the ham into chunks.
- Dice the pickles. Mix them with the chopped ham adding a bit of salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add the chopped celery, to the mixture to enhance both the texture and flavor.
- In a bowl combine mayonnaise and sweet pickle juice to create a mixture.
- Gently incorporate the blend into the ham mixture ensuring that all ingredients blend together perfectly.
- Place this combination in the refrigerator, for 1 to 2 hours so that all the flavors can come together.
- When you're ready to serve spread this Southern Style Ham Salad on bread crackers. Enjoy it as a dip.
- Savor the fusion of flavors and relish in every bite as you indulge in this comfort.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
