When you want to make a timeless classic, this old-fashioned ham salad recipe hits the spot. A staple dish in households for generations, it makes a delicious and versatile option for lunches, snacks and appetizers.

Ham salad is not only yummy but also a handy solution for transforming leftover holiday ham into a new and tasty meal. This cost-effective and resourceful approach is one of my favorite leftover ham recipes, especially useful after Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas.

While ham salad seems to have gotten so popular in modern times for that exact reason (what to do with leftover ham), its history goes back much further. Or at least it’s evolved from a different version traced back to medieval times. According to Tasting Table, that dish consisted of ham cooked in a gelatinous broth, with early chefs slowly adding mix-ins like onions and celery.

I was happy to see how the evolution included mayo replacing the gelatin. By the time of the Depression, resourceful home chefs found recipes like this helped make their meat go much further to feed their families during hard times.

What to serve with old-fashioned ham salad

One of the best things about ham salad is how easy it is to serve in different ways. You can spread it on crackers, toast or slices of bread; stuff it into a pita pocket with lettuce and tomato; make sliders; or serve it alongside a fresh green salad.

When it comes to having this ham salad as an appetizer or snack with crackers or bread, consider options like buttery Ritz crackers, crispy rye crisps, or a freshly baked baguette. For a lighter option, cucumber slices or celery sticks make for a crunchy, low-carb alternative.

For a party, picnic or other gathering, you can use small dinner rolls or slider buns to make mini ham salad sliders. Another option is to make chopped ham salad pinwheels by spreading a mixture on a tortilla, rolling it tightly and slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

You can round this one out for a midday meal with a few simple accompaniments and sides. Think: A refreshing fruit salad or a platter of crudités like carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

To quench your thirst, serve up a pitcher of sweet iced tea or lemonade, or opt for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a more sophisticated touch. To add something sweet, a light and fruity sorbet or a simple fruit tart would pair nicely with the richness of the ham salad.

Ingredients needed to make this old-fashioned ham salad

Here are a few items to gather to whip up a batch of this savory salad.

Boneless Cooked Ham: Provides the main flavor and protein base for the salad.
Hard-Boiled Egg: Adds texture and flavor and helps bind the salad together.
Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and freshness to the salad.
Onion: Provides a savory depth of flavor and a slight sharpness.
Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich dressing that binds all the ingredients together.
Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to balance the flavors.
Dijon Mustard: Contributes a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the salad.
Freshly Ground Pepper: Enhances the overall taste and brings a hint of spice.
Crackers or Rolls: The perfect vehicle for scooping up and enjoying the ham salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a few common questions and answers about this ham salad recipe. If you have a question I haven’t covered, leave it in the comments, and I will reply as soon as I can!

How long does ham salad last in the fridge?

Ham salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to give it a quick stir before serving.

Is it okay to freeze ham salad?

Freezing ham salad is not recommended, as the mayonnaise and other ingredients can change texture and become quite unappetizing once thawed.

Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your preferred ham variety, such as smoked, honey-glazed, or black forest ham. Just be mindful of the saltiness level, as some hams may require adjusting the seasoning in the recipe.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the recipe?

If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. It will still provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the salad.

Can I make the ham salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ham salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. This can be a great time-saver when preparing for a party or gathering.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives to ham salad?

Yes, you can create a vegetarian or vegan version of ham salad by substituting the ham with ingredients like jackfruit, tofu or seitan. These plant-based alternatives can provide a similar texture and taste to traditional ham salad when prepared and seasoned correctly.

Can I make this ham salad healthier with any substitutions?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe with different substitutions to make the salad healthier, depending on what aspect you want to address. To reduce fat, try reduced-fat mayonnaise or swap it entirely with Greek yogurt.

You can also add more vegetables to increase the fiber content and nutrient density of the salad. Consider incorporating chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or diced cucumbers. When possible, opt for lean, low-sodium ham to reduce the overall fat and salt content of the dish.

Can I make ham salad using turkey or chicken instead of ham?

You can easily adapt the traditional ham salad recipe by swapping the ham for cooked turkey or chicken. This variation is perfect for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey or for creating a lighter option for those who prefer white meat.

How can I customize the flavor of my ham salad?

Experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings is an excellent way to add your unique twist to ham salad. Try adding spicy elements like diced jalapeños or sriracha sauce for a kick of heat. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like chives or dill for added brightness and complexity.

How do prevent the ham salad from becoming dry?

Make sure you use enough mayonnaise or yogurt to coat all the ingredients evenly. If your salad seems dry, add a bit more of your chosen binder, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

If your salad tends to dry out during storage, try placing a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad before covering it with a lid. This will help prevent air exposure, maintaining the desired texture. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir and, if needed, add a small amount of mayonnaise or yogurt to revive its creaminess.

More Grandma-approved recipes

If you loved this recipe for traditional ham salad, here are a few other recipes you should try! They are all delicious and grandma-approved.

If you decide to try this recipe, let me know. I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!