Ham 'N Mandarin Salad
A refreshing ham and mandarin orange salad with crunchy walnuts and crisp celery, perfect for light lunches or entertaining guests seeking a tangy, nutty flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, halved ⓘ
- 2 cups finely cubed cooked ham ⓘ
- 1 cup thinly sliced celery
- 1/3 cup chopped green onion ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 (11 oz.) can mandarin orange segments, drained ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons light cream ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon vinegar ⓘ
Instructions
- Rub the salad bowl with the cut side of the garlic clove.
- Combine the cooked ham, sliced celery, chopped green onion, chopped walnuts, and drained mandarin orange segments in the bowl; cover and chill.
- Just before serving, blend the pepper, mayonnaise, light cream, and vinegar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the ham mixture and toss until well coated.
- Serve on crisp greens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding diced apples or grapes to the salad for extra sweetness and crunch. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham or leftover ham from a previous meal works well. For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This salad can also be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Ham 'N Mandarin Salad is excellent served on a bed of crisp greens like romaine or spinach. Pair it with a light vinaigrette or serve alongside Cucumber And Onion Dip for a refreshing appetizer. This salad also works well with crusty bread or as a filling for sandwiches, making it a versatile option for lunch or a picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid mixing in the dressing until you're ready to serve. If you prefer to reheat, gently warm the ham mixture in a skillet over low heat, but note that the salad is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham 'N Mandarin Salad contains roughly 161 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g 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 fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mandarin oranges can be used for a brighter flavor and texture. Just be sure to segment them carefully and remove any seeds. Fresh fruit will add a nice touch to the overall presentation and taste of the salad.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or simply prefer a different nut, pecans or almonds work well as substitutes. For a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to add crunch without the allergens.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make Ham 'N Mandarin Salad more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or couscous. These grains will provide additional fiber and protein, making the salad a heartier meal. You could also serve it alongside a bowl of Snowball Soup for a complete dining experience.
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).