Holiday Ham Spread
A creamy, savory ham spread with crunchy almonds and fresh green onions, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful appetizer for any special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the finely chopped ham, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, sliced green onion, sweet pickle relish, and 4 ounces of cream cheese in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator before serving.
- Just before serving, fold in the sliced toasted almonds and green onion tops.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce. For a crunchier texture, you can replace the sliced toasted almonds with pecans or walnuts. This spread also works well as a filling for Poppy Seed Finger Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
This Holiday Ham Spread is perfect served with crackers or as a sandwich filling. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be served alongside a cheese platter. Consider offering it at your next gathering or holiday party as a delightful appetizer. It also complements American recipes like Sausage-Ham Dressing, making it a versatile addition to your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing this spread. When ready to serve again, simply take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving, or mix it gently to refresh its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Ham Spread contains roughly 810 calories, with 19g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 ham spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This ham spread tastes even better after it has had time to chill and allow the flavors to meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be substituted for mayonnaise. This will give the spread a tangy flavor while maintaining the creaminess. You can also use avocado for a healthier twist.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ham with finely chopped mushrooms or chickpeas. Combine with the other ingredients and adjust seasonings to taste. This will create a delicious spread that maintains a similar texture.
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).