Curried Ham Salad
A flavorful and creamy ham salad with curry, raisins, and mandarin oranges, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer, appealing to those who enjoy sweet and savory combinations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Place in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the celery with chopped apples or bell peppers. If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can use chopped fresh pineapple in place of the mandarin oranges. Adjust the curry powder according to your spice preference, and for a creamier texture, swap the light salad dressing with Greek yogurt. This recipe is also great for using up leftover ham from a Sunday Ham Barbecue.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Curried Ham Salad on a bed of mixed greens or as a filling in a sandwich or wrap. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of fresh fruit for a light meal. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a dish like Quick Hoppin John(6 Servings) or a vibrant bean salad to complete the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Curried Ham Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve with time. Avoid freezing as the ingredients may become mushy upon thawing. When ready to serve, give it a good stir and enjoy cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for optimal flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Ham Salad contains roughly 530 calories, with 20g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (230% of the Daily Value), iron (129% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 a different type of meat instead of ham?
Absolutely! This salad can be made with diced chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the meat is cooked and diced into similar-sized pieces for even flavor distribution. If using chicken, consider seasoning it with a bit of curry powder before mixing it into the salad.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add extra heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier curry powder. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it an additional kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Curried Ham Salad is excellent for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and 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).