Ham Salad

Easter recipes are a treat, but the real fun begins when you get to turn all those leftovers into something new and delicious. One of the best (and most underrated) ways to enjoy extra Easter ham? A creamy, tangy ham salad.

This retro classic is so easy and blows canned deviled ham out of the water. It takes just a few pulses in the food processor to blend the ham with crisp celery, tangy pickles, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and a splash of pickle juice. A chopped hard-boiled egg adds extra richness. If you're feeling bold, a dash of hot sauce brings just the right amount of heat.

Pile it high between two slices of bread for the ultimate sandwich, spoon it onto crackers for one of the best retro appetizers, or scoop it into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy bite. However you enjoy it, this old-fashioned favorite proves that leftovers might just be the best part of any holiday meal!

Find more ways to use up leftover ham here.

What kind of ham is best for ham salad?

Almost any type of cooked ham—glazed, roasted, smoked, or slow-cooked—works beautifully in ham salad. Just steer clear of ultra-thin deli slices and country ham. Because the ham is pulsed in the food processor, starting with thicker, chunkier pieces ensures a nicely textured salad. Thin-sliced ham tends to break down too much, leaving you with a paste, and country ham is too salty for this kind of salad treatment.

How long does ham salad last in the fridge?

Ham salad stays fresh for up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, don’t forget to consider how long the ham has already been in the fridge. Cooked ham is typically good for up to five days, so plan accordingly.