Shirley'S Ham Salad Ball
A creamy, savory ham salad ball with a hint of onion and parsley, coated with chopped peanuts, perfect for parties or as a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the ground ham, parsley, grated onion, dry mustard, and hot pepper sauce; mix well.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the ham salad ball in chopped nuts (cocktail peanuts) to coat.
- Serve or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce or replace it with a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Chopped pecans or walnuts can substitute for cocktail peanuts if desired. This dish can also be made ahead of time; just shape and coat in nuts right before serving to maintain crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham salad ball with a selection of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or atop a bed of greens for a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Ham And Cheese Finger Rolls for a delightful spread at gatherings. Consider offering a variety of cheeses and fruits on the side to enhance the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the ham salad ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to serve it later, simply take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Ham Salad Ball contains roughly 442 calories, with 13g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% 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?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based deli meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to complement the different flavors.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! As long as you choose gluten-free crackers or serve it with veggies, this ham salad ball is a great gluten-free appetizer. Always check labels on mayonnaise and any other condiments to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I make this dish more visually appealing?
To enhance presentation, consider garnishing the ham salad ball with fresh parsley or placing it on a decorative platter with colorful veggies and fruit. Using a variety of nuts for rolling can also add visual texture and interest.
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).