Ham salad is more than just a dish; it's a journey back in time, a taste of nostalgia that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This old - fashioned recipe combines the rich, savory flavor of cooked ham with the tangy delight of relish and the creamy smoothness of mayonnaise. In this article, we'll explore the best way to create this classic ham salad, and also provide tips on storing any leftovers.

Let's start with the star of the show: the ham. You can use any type of cooked ham for this recipe. Whether it's a smoked ham, a honey - glazed ham, or a simple baked ham, each variety brings its own unique flavor profile to the salad. Begin by dicing the ham into small, bite - sized pieces. The size of the dice can vary depending on your preference, but a quarter - inch cube is a good standard. This size allows the ham to blend well with the other ingredients while still maintaining its distinct presence.

Next up is the relish. Relish adds a burst of flavor and a bit of crunch to the ham salad. You can choose from sweet pickle relish, dill pickle relish, or a combination of both. Sweet pickle relish offers a sugary, tangy note that complements the saltiness of the ham, while dill pickle relish provides a more savory, herbaceous flavor. Measure out about half a cup of relish for every pound of ham. Stir it gently into the diced ham, making sure the relish coats each piece evenly.

The mayonnaise is what binds the ham salad together and gives it its creamy texture. Opt for a high - quality mayonnaise for the best results. Start with about a quarter - cup of mayonnaise per pound of ham and add more as needed. The amount of mayonnaise can be adjusted based on how moist you like your salad. Some people prefer a drier salad, while others enjoy a more decadent, creamy version. Slowly incorporate the mayonnaise into the ham and relish mixture, stirring until the salad reaches your desired consistency.

To enhance the flavor of the ham salad even further, you can add some additional ingredients. Finely chopped celery adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle, earthy flavor. A sprinkle of mustard powder or a few dashes of hot sauce can give the salad a bit of a kick. You can also add some minced red onion for a sharp, pungent note. These additional ingredients are optional, but they can take your ham salad from good to great.

Once your ham salad is ready, it's time to serve it. Ham salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can spread it on a slice of toasted bread for a classic sandwich. It also makes a great filling for croissants or wraps. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit, a bowl of soup, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Now, let's talk about storing leftovers. Ham salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 - 4 days. Before storing, make sure the salad has cooled down to room temperature. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria. If you have a large amount of leftovers, you can also portion it out into smaller containers. This makes it easier to grab a single - serving when you're in a hurry.

When you're ready to use the leftover ham salad, give it a good stir. The mayonnaise may have separated a bit during storage, but a quick stir will bring it back to its creamy consistency. You can also add a little extra mayonnaise if the salad seems a bit dry. Remember to always check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off - smell or a change in color, before consuming the leftover ham salad.

In conclusion, old - fashioned ham salad is a timeless recipe that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect dish for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. So, the next time you have some cooked ham on hand, why not try making this delicious ham salad? You'll be transported back to a simpler time with every bite.