Broccoli And Ham Salad
A creamy, savory salad combining tender broccoli, ham, cheddar cheese, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside to cool.
- Add chopped celery, onion, and green or red pepper to the cooked macaroni.
- Cook broccoli flowerets until tender, then chill in the refrigerator.
- Add mayonnaise, sugar, cubed cheddar cheese, shredded ham, and chilled broccoli to the macaroni mixture.
- Mix well and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the celery with water chestnuts. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-cooked broccoli can be found in the frozen section. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli And Ham Salad is perfect for potlucks or as a hearty side dish during barbecues. It pairs beautifully with American recipes such as grilled chicken or Pork recipes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light soup or a fresh garden salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Ham Salad contains roughly 785 calories, with 10g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and refrigerate. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving!
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. Also, consider adding more vegetables like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture without sacrificing the salad's heartiness.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad is versatile! It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or wraps like Devilishous Pinwheels. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a light soup to balance out the richness of the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).