Delicious Ham Salad Recipe made with diced ham, hard‑boiled eggs, sweet onion, and diced celery tossed in a flavorful mix of mayonnaise, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, and fresh dill. This salad balances creamy and crunchy textures and is ready in about 15 minutes.
Creamy, mayo-based salads are a favorite for quick meals and make great use of leftover ham. This version is less like the finely minced, old-fashioned ham spreads and more like a chunky salad—similar in texture to a classic chicken salad. It’s hearty, crunchy, and versatile: serve it by the spoonful, on fresh bread for sandwiches, on crackers as an appetizer, or over crisp lettuce. Leftover holiday ham from Easter or Christmas works especially well.
Ham Salad Ingredients
- Ham: Leftover holiday ham or cooked ham steaks both work. Use the ham you enjoy eating.
- Mayonnaise and Mustard: Mayo provides the creamy base while yellow mustard adds tang. Dijon or whole-grain mustard are fine substitutes.
- Veggies: Diced celery and sweet onion lend crunch and brightness to the salad.
- Dill Pickle Relish: Adds sweet-tangy flavor and helps cut the ham’s saltiness. Chopped pickles work too.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Fresh dill is used here; parsley or chives are good alternatives.
- Hard‑Boiled Eggs (optional): Chopped hard‑boiled eggs add creaminess and mild flavor that pairs nicely with the ham.
- Optional additions: Finely diced bell pepper or green onion for extra color and crunch.
Printable recipe with measurements is included in the recipe card below.
How to Make Ham Salad
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, mustard, dill pickle relish, and fresh dill in a large bowl until smooth. Fold in the diced ham, chopped hard‑boiled eggs, finely diced onion, and celery. Taste and season with a little black pepper or salt if needed—many hams are already quite salty. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like.
Can I Make Ham Salad Without Mayonnaise?
Yes. If you prefer a different base, try plain Greek yogurt for tang and creaminess, mashed avocado for richness, or a commercial alternative like Miracle Whip. Each option changes the flavor slightly, so adjust seasonings to taste.
How to Serve Ham Salad
The most popular way to enjoy ham salad is in a sandwich on your favorite bread or roll. It also makes an easy appetizer served with crackers or pita chips, a filling for stuffed tomatoes or peppers, or a topping for a simple green salad.
How to Store Leftover Ham Salad
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. For best quality, use within 3–4 days. Freezing is not recommended because the texture will change.
More Creamy Salad Recipes
- Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
- Easy Creamy Potato Salad
- Crab Salad
- Egg Salad
- Macaroni Salad
- Olivier Salad (Russian Potato Salad)
If you make this Ham Salad Recipe, please leave a comment below. I always enjoy hearing your feedback and tips.
Ham Salad Recipe
Jessica Randhawa
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard or Dijon
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill or parsley, minced
- 1 (16-ounce) package cooked ham steak or leftover holiday ham
- 2 hard‑boiled eggs peeled and diced
- ½ small sweet onion finely diced
- ¼ cup celery finely diced
Instructions
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Whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, dill pickle relish, and fresh dill in a large bowl. Stir in the diced ham, chopped hard‑boiled eggs, finely diced onion, and diced celery. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment below!