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Classic Creamy Ham Salad: The Best Way to Use Leftover Ham

A close-up of creamy ham salad featuring diced pink ham, green celery, and black pepper on a light plate.

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Make this easy, no-cook ham salad using leftover ham. It is creamy, tangy, and packed with crunch, making it perfect for quick lunches, picnic spreads, or appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped or ground
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the chopped or ground ham into a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped celery, minced red onion, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and black pepper to the bowl.
  3. Mix all ingredients together until they are fully combined and the salad reaches a creamy consistency.
  4. Taste the salad and add a pinch of salt if needed, though the ham usually provides enough saltiness.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill the ham salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve cold on bread for sandwiches, with crackers, or as a topping for lettuce cups.

Notes

  • For a tangier flavor, substitute sweet pickle relish with dill pickle relish.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the ham mixture in a food processor until it reaches your desired consistency, then mix in the remaining ingredients by hand.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal planning; it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Consider this when looking at best meal delivery services for future planning.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional spreads, this recipe works well as a base for a low-carb keto meal plan delivery option if served with vegetable sticks instead of bread.

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