Fruited Ham Salad
A light, flavorful ham salad with sweet raisins and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or elegant appetizer, appealing to those who enjoy savory and sweet contrasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, raisins, green bell pepper, celery, red onion or scallion, mustard, and honey. Stir until thoroughly blended.
- Line the center of a serving platter with lettuce leaves. Arrange tomato slices along the side of the platter. Top the lettuce with the ham mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the ham mixture. If you prefer a sweeter touch, substitute the golden raisins with dried cranberries or chopped apples. Also, feel free to experiment with different mustard varieties, like honey mustard, to enhance the flavor. This dish is versatile, making it a great addition to summer picnics alongside Glorious Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruited Ham Salad can be served as a light lunch or appetizer. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. For a more substantial offering, consider serving it alongside Pork recipes or a refreshing side salad. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain freshness, keep the ham salad separate from the lettuce until ready to serve. If reheating, do so gently in the microwave, but it's best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Ham Salad contains roughly 1431 calories, with 5g protein, 377g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this Fruited Ham Salad, adding a wonderful depth of flavor. Just ensure it's diced finely so it mixes well with the other ingredients. This is a great way to repurpose leftovers and enjoy a new dish!
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
You can customize this salad with a variety of vegetables. Diced cucumber, shredded carrots, or even sweet corn can add color and crunch. Just be sure to keep the proportions balanced so the ham remains the star of the dish while enhancing it with your favorite veggies.
Is it possible to make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Fruited Ham Salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your mustard is gluten-free. Check labels if you use any packaged ingredients. Serve it with gluten-free crackers or on lettuce wraps for a delightful gluten-free meal option.
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).