Classic salads don’t get much better than deviled ham salad—a filling and tasty choice for lunch or a light supper. With its rich texture and robust flavors, this dish has endured for decades and remains a favorite. Below, we explore the origins of the classic deviled ham salad and provide you with the steps to prepare it in your own kitchen.
We would like to take a moment to thank salads4lunch.com, an excellent resource for salad enthusiasts. The site features a variety of salad recipes, meal prep ideas, and health and fitness suggestions. This classic deviled ham salad recipe is based on their method of making simple yet flavorful salads.
Deviled Ham Salad: A Historical Account
The origin of deviled ham salad can be traced back to the early 20th century, stemming from the need to use up leftover ham. The recipe typically includes mayonnaise, ground cooked ham, and a blend of seasonings such as mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to create a tangy and flavorful relish. The term “deviled” refers to the spicy kick provided by the hot sauce and seasonings.
Over time, the deviled ham salad has evolved with various adaptations. Some people prefer to add extra crunch by incorporating chopped celery or pickles, while others stick with the traditional ingredients for a simpler taste.
This type of salad gained popularity in America particularly during the 1940s and 1950s when canned goods and convenience foods were in their prime. Deviled ham, which was a popular canned product, combined perfectly with the rich and creamy texture of mayonnaise to create an easy yet satisfying salad. It was often served at picnics, potlucks, and gatherings as a quick, inexpensive dish that could be prepared in a matter of minutes.
The deviled ham salad’s versatility and ability to be served as a spread, sandwich filling, or even a topping for crackers helped cement its status as a beloved dish. Even as culinary trends have evolved, deviled ham salad has remained a reliable staple in many households.
The Classic Recipe for Deviled Ham Salad
Now that you know the history of this dish, here’s the recipe for deviled ham salad. Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground or coarsely chopped cooked ham
- ½ cup (125 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, or adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped celery
- Pickles, diced
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Hard-boiled eggs, chopped (for added richness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Start by either grinding your leftover cooked ham or chopping it coarsely. If you don’t have leftover ham, you can easily use deli ham or even canned deviled ham as a base. The key is to ensure that the ham is finely shredded or chopped so it will blend easily with the other ingredients.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground or chopped ham, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-mixed and the ham is evenly coated with the creamy ingredients.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If you like a bit more heat, add a few extra dashes of hot sauce. For a tangier flavor, you can increase the Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to suit your preferences.
- Refrigerate: Once everything is thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dish a chance to chill before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, feel free to garnish your deviled ham salad with chopped celery, pickles, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. If you want to make the dish even richer, you can also stir in some chopped hard-boiled eggs. Serve the salad on crackers, toast, or inside a sandwich, or even as a topping for a fresh green salad.
Variations of the Deviled Ham Salad
While the classic deviled ham salad recipe is beloved by many, there are several variations that you can experiment with to personalize it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
1. Spicy Deviled Ham Salad
Add a bit of extra spice by increasing the amount of hot sauce or incorporating chopped jalapeños or pepperoncini. The added heat will give the salad a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the rich mayonnaise base.
2. Crunchy Deviled Ham Salad
For extra crunch, stir in finely chopped vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or onions. You can also add some crushed potato chips or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for an interesting texture that complements the creamy, savory ham.
3. Low-Fat Deviled Ham Salad
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of the classic deviled ham salad, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat version. This will cut down on the fat content while still providing a creamy base. Additionally, using lean ham or turkey ham can reduce the fat and calories.
4. Deviled Ham Salad with Pickles
Add a tangy twist to the salad by incorporating finely chopped pickles or relish. This version brings a sweet-sour element that balances out the richness of the mayonnaise and ham. If you love the flavor of dill, try adding a few tablespoons of dill pickle relish for a zesty bite.
5. Vegan Deviled Ham Salad
For a plant-based version, try using vegan “ham” products or even chickpeas that are mashed to resemble the texture of ham. Combine this with vegan mayonnaise and seasonings to create a plant-based alternative to the traditional deviled ham salad.
Serving Suggestions for Deviled Ham Salad
Deviled ham salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire you:
- Deviled Ham Salad Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of deviled ham salad between two slices of whole-grain bread for a classic sandwich. Add some leafy greens or tomato slices for a fresh, balanced meal.
- Deviled Ham Salad on Crackers: Serve the deviled ham salad as a quick snack or appetizer by spreading it on your favorite crackers. Add a garnish of fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Deviled Ham Salad Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the deviled ham salad. This provides a crunchy texture and makes for a great light lunch or snack.
- Deviled Ham Salad with Fresh Vegetables: Serve the deviled ham salad on a bed of mixed greens, or use it as a topping for a fresh vegetable salad. It pairs well with cucumbers, tomatoes, and sliced radishes for a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
- Deviled Ham Salad on Toast: Toast a slice of your favorite bread (such as sourdough or rye), then top it with a generous amount of deviled ham salad. This is perfect for a quick, satisfying breakfast or light lunch.
Health Benefits of Deviled Ham Salad
While deviled ham salad is primarily a flavorful dish, it also offers some nutritional benefits, particularly when made with high-quality ingredients. Here are a few reasons why you might consider adding this dish to your meal rotation:
- High in Protein: Ham, the main ingredient in deviled ham salad, is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise, the creamy base of deviled ham salad, provides healthy fats that are necessary for brain function and hormone regulation. If you opt for a healthier mayonnaise alternative (such as Greek yogurt or avocado), you’ll add even more nutritional value.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the variations you choose, adding vegetables like celery or bell peppers can increase the vitamin and mineral content of the salad. These vegetables provide antioxidants and fiber, which promote digestion and overall health.
- Customizable for Dietary Needs: As mentioned earlier, deviled ham salad can be easily adapted to fit specific dietary preferences, including low-fat, low-carb, or plant-based diets.
Conclusion
Deviled ham salad is a timeless recipe that has stood the test of time due to its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or as a topping for salads, it is a filling and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in many forms. By experimenting with different variations and ingredients, you can customize this classic salad to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
So, the next time you have leftover ham and want to create something delicious and easy, give this deviled ham salad recipe a try. It’s a simple, flavorful way to make the most out of your leftovers, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
