Classic Ham and Cheese Salad Spread
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make salad spread that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than the classic ham and cheese salad spread! This recipe combines the flavors of savory ham, creamy cheese, and crisp vegetables to create a mouthwatering spread that can be enjoyed on sandwiches, crackers, or even as a dip. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a picnic, or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the salad spread:
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For serving:
- Sliced bread or crackers
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make the classic ham and cheese salad spread:
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by dicing the cooked ham into small pieces. Shred the cheddar cheese and finely chop the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, and celery. Chop the fresh parsley as well.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, chopped bell peppers, onion, celery, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Chill the spread
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This will also give the spread a firmer texture, making it easier to spread on bread or crackers.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy
Once chilled, the classic ham and cheese salad spread is ready to be served. You can spread it onto slices of bread or crackers, or use it as a dip for vegetable sticks. For added freshness, place a lettuce leaf and sliced tomatoes on top of the spread before assembling your sandwich.
Variations
While the classic ham and cheese salad spread is delicious on its own, you can get creative and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Spicy Jalapeno
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos to the salad spread. This will give it a spicy kick that pairs well with the ham and cheese flavors.
2. Smoky Bacon
For a smoky twist, substitute the ham with cooked and crumbled bacon. This variation adds a rich and savory flavor that bacon lovers will adore.
3. Mediterranean Delight
Add a Mediterranean twist by incorporating some sliced black olives, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese into the salad spread. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy tangy and briny flavors.
Tips
Follow these tips to ensure your classic ham and cheese salad spread turns out perfectly:
1. Use high-quality ingredients
Choose a good quality cooked ham and cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Fresh and crisp vegetables will also add a nice crunch to the spread.
2. Adjust the seasonings
Taste the salad spread before chilling it and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more garlic powder, black pepper, or Dijon mustard for an extra punch of flavor.
3. Customize the texture
If you prefer a chunkier spread, dice the ham and vegetables into larger pieces. For a smoother spread, use a food processor to finely chop the ingredients.
4. Make it ahead of time
The classic ham and cheese salad spread can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a convenient option for meal planning or entertaining guests.
Conclusion
The classic ham and cheese salad spread is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re making sandwiches for a picnic or serving appetizers at a party, this spread is sure to impress. With its combination of savory ham, creamy cheese, and crunchy vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion. So, give this recipe a try and satisfy your cravings with this delectable salad spread!
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Swiss, provolone, or even blue cheese to create your own unique twist.
Q: Can I substitute the mayonnaise with another dressing?
A: Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a combination of both for a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.
Q: Can I make this salad spread vegetarian?
A: Certainly! You can omit the ham and add extra veggies like diced cucumbers, carrots, or even sweetcorn to create a vegetarian version of the salad spread.
Q: Can I freeze the salad spread?
A: While it is technically possible to freeze the salad spread, the texture may change once thawed, and the vegetables may become watery. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
