Ham Salad Spread is a delightful, creamy, and savory spread that’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a party appetizer. This recipe combines finely chopped ham with mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and seasonings to create a flavorful, easy-to-make spread. Whether you need a quick lunch option or an appetizer for your next gathering, Ham Salad Spread is versatile and satisfying. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham, turning it into a delicious and spreadable treat that everyone will love. Whether served at a holiday gathering or as an everyday snack, this spread is sure to become a favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 cups finely chopped cooked ham
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Start by finely chopping the cooked ham into small pieces. You can also pulse it in a food processor for a finer texture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ham, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, celery, onion, and garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve the Ham Salad Spread on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Facts

(Per Serving)

Calories: 150
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 10g

The Origins and History of Ham Salad Spread

The concept of ham salad is not a new one. It is a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in the United States, where it became a staple for many households in the 19th and 20th centuries. The idea of using leftover cooked meats, such as ham, to make a spread or salad is rooted in frugality. In times of economic hardship, families would make use of every part of a leftover meal to create something new, and ham salad was an excellent way to do just that.

Ham salad itself can be traced back to traditional European recipes where it was common to combine leftover meats with mayonnaise or cream and add vegetables or seasonings for extra flavor. In the U.S., the recipe evolved, especially in the South, where ingredients like sweet pickles and mustard were often used to add a tangy contrast to the richness of the meat. The addition of mayonnaise helped to bind the ingredients together, creating a spreadable consistency that was ideal for sandwiches, crackers, and even as a filling for deviled eggs.

The modern Ham Salad Spread has become a popular dish at picnics, holiday gatherings, and casual meals. Over the years, various regional twists have emerged, such as adding chopped boiled eggs, fresh herbs, or even cheese. Despite these variations, the core concept of a creamy, savory spread made from ham has remained unchanged, and it continues to be a beloved dish in many households today.

Why Ham Salad Spread Is a Popular Choice

There are several reasons why Ham Salad Spread has become such a popular choice, especially for busy families or those hosting gatherings. One of the biggest advantages of this dish is how versatile it is. The spread can be served in numerous ways, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, preparing a snack, or setting out appetizers for a party, Ham Salad Spread is an easy and adaptable option.

Another reason for its popularity is its simplicity. The ingredients required for this dish are minimal and inexpensive, meaning that it can be made without a lot of preparation or fancy ingredients. If you already have leftover cooked ham in the fridge, all you need is some mayonnaise, mustard, and a few additional seasonings to create a spread that is both tasty and satisfying. This makes it a perfect go-to recipe when you need to put together a quick meal or snack without much effort.

Additionally, Ham Salad Spread is a great way to make use of leftovers. Instead of throwing away leftover ham from a holiday meal or family dinner, you can turn it into a delicious spread that can be enjoyed for days. This ability to repurpose ingredients makes Ham Salad Spread a budget-friendly and eco-conscious option for reducing food waste.

Health Benefits of Ham Salad Spread

While Ham Salad Spread is often considered a comfort food, it also offers a number of health benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Ham itself is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Protein is also important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full and satisfied after meals.

The mayonnaise used in the recipe provides healthy fats, which are important for maintaining cell function, supporting brain health, and aiding the absorption of certain vitamins. While mayonnaise is calorie-dense, it’s also an essential component in achieving the creamy texture of the spread, and a small amount can go a long way in terms of flavor and texture.

Adding ingredients like pickles and celery to the spread can boost its fiber content, which is beneficial for digestion and overall gut health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and can also lower cholesterol levels. Pickles provide additional flavor while offering a small dose of antioxidants, and celery adds crunch and freshness to the spread, enhancing both texture and taste.

While it’s important to note that Ham Salad Spread is typically higher in calories due to the mayonnaise and ham, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. You can also make lighter versions of the spread by using low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, which would reduce the calorie and fat content while still providing a creamy consistency.

How to Customize Ham Salad Spread

One of the best features of Ham Salad Spread is how customizable it is. The basic recipe allows for many variations, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for customizing this spread:

Add Vegetables: If you want to increase the vegetable content, consider adding finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or green onions to the spread. These vegetables will add color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
Spicy Ham Salad: For those who like a bit of heat, you can add some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the mixture. This will give the spread a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy base.
Cheese Lovers’ Ham Salad: Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or even a tangy blue cheese, can enhance the flavor profile and make the spread even more indulgent. Cheese can be mixed directly into the spread or sprinkled on top as a garnish.
Herbs and Fresh Ingredients: For a fresher flavor, you can stir in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives. Fresh herbs can bring a burst of flavor to the spread and add a fragrant, aromatic quality that elevates the dish.
Vegan or Vegetarian Versions: For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, you can replace the ham with chickpeas or tofu. These plant-based proteins can be finely chopped or mashed to mimic the texture of ham. A dairy-free mayonnaise substitute or Greek yogurt can be used to make the spread creamy and rich without the use of animal products.
Dressing Variations: If you don’t have Dijon mustard or prefer a different flavor, you can experiment with various types of mustard or even add a spoonful of horseradish, ketchup, or a dash of vinegar to the spread for additional tang.

Serving Ideas for Ham Salad Spread

Ham Salad Spread is versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few creative ideas for enjoying this spread:

On Sandwiches: The classic way to enjoy Ham Salad Spread is on a sandwich, whether on soft white bread, whole wheat, or a crusty roll. You can even try it in a wrap or pita for a lighter option.
With Crackers or Chips: Serve the spread with an assortment of crackers or chips for a fun and casual appetizer. The crunchy texture of the crackers pairs beautifully with the creamy ham salad spread.
As a Dip: If you’re hosting a party, you can serve Ham Salad Spread as a dip with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices. It also works well with bread cubes, tortilla chips, or pita chips for dipping.
On Deviled Eggs: For a fun twist, you can use the ham salad spread as a filling for deviled eggs. Simply spoon a bit of the mixture into halved boiled eggs for a savory, bite-sized appetizer.
Stuffed in Vegetables: You can stuff this spread into halved cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even hollowed-out cucumbers for a bite-sized appetizer that’s perfect for parties or gatherings.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Ham Salad Spread

Ham Salad Spread is a timeless, versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Its creamy, savory flavor, combined with the subtle tang of pickles and mustard, makes it a perfect choice for both casual snacks and festive occasions. The simplicity of the recipe means that you can easily whip it up in no time, making it an ideal option when you need something quick and satisfying.

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