Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad

Introduction

Indulge in the creamy goodness of a delightful Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad, a perfect blend of savory ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and a zesty dressing. This easy-to-make recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish, sandwich filling, or even a standalone main course.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham in a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s simple to whip up and can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is sure to please your taste buds.

How to Make Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the Ham and Cheese:

   • Dice the cooked ham into small cubes.
   • Shred the cheddar cheese if not already shredded.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the diced ham, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated.

4. Season and Serve:

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well again.
   • Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

5. Chill and Enjoy:

   • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Serve chilled as a side dish, sandwich filling, or a main course with some fresh greens or bread.

How to Serve Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad

Serve this delicious salad chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or as the star of a light lunch. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Tips to Make Creamy Ham and Cheese Salad

• Use high-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Customize the salad by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, celery, or even pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Variation

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and reduce-fat mayo for the mayonnaise. You can also add a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of cheese in this recipe?
   • Cheddar cheese pairs well with ham, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or Gouda.
2. Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?
   • Chilling allows the flavors to develop, but you can also enjoy it right away if preferred.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   • Yes, this salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.