Chunky Ham Salad
A flavorful, hearty ham salad featuring shredded carrots and crunchy potato sticks, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, suitable for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the Hormel ham, shredded carrots, sliced celery, minced onion, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Make the salad one day ahead of serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, add the potato sticks to the salad and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also enhance the flavors by adding diced pickles or relish. If you want a bit more crunch, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or walnuts. This salad can also be made with leftover ham or turkey, making it a versatile choice for various meats and leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chunky ham salad on a bed of lettuce or as a filling for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with a side of crispy potato chips or a light soup, such as Gigi'S Crock-Pot Bean Soup. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh fruit salad or coleslaw on the side. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid adding the potato sticks until just before serving to keep them crunchy. If you have leftovers with potato sticks, consume them within a day for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Ham Salad contains roughly 1309 calories, with 13g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (79% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1692mg per serving (74% 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 use fresh ham instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cooked ham instead of canned. Just chop it into small chunks and mix it with the other ingredients. Fresh ham will provide a richer flavor, and you might want to adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance the taste.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this ham salad healthier, consider using a low-fat or light mayonnaise. You can also increase the amount of vegetables by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or spinach. Substituting some of the mayonnaise with plain yogurt can reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
What can I serve with this ham salad?
This ham salad is quite versatile and can be served with various sides. It pairs well with crunchy crackers, a fresh green salad, or even on a sandwich. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Western Style Bean Casserole for a delicious combination of flavors.
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).