Ah, Cabbage and Ham Salad! Let me tell you, this dish holds a special little corner in my heart – and my stomach! My grandmother used to whip up a big bowl of this salad every time we had family gatherings, and it always reminded me of warm summer days spent outside, laughing and enjoying good food with loved ones. The crunchy cabbage, the tender bites of ham, and that creamy dressing make it the perfect mix of flavors and textures. I love how easy it is to prepare too—a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can eat it as a side, or turn it into a light meal.
Now, are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!
What’s in Cabbage and Ham Salad?
Here’s a little breakdown of what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
Cabbage: The star of the show! I use about 4 cups of shredded green cabbage which gives that perfect crunch. It’s super low in calories and a great source of fiber!
Cooked Ham: This adds a hearty punch to the salad. I prefer using diced ham from the deli counter for the best flavor. You can use leftovers from a holiday ham too!
Cucumber: A refreshing addition that adds a nice crunch. It’s also hydrating, perfect for those hot days when you want to feel light.
Sweet Corn: I love the sweetness it brings to the salad. Canned or frozen works, depending on what you’ve got on hand. I usually opt for frozen because it’s super easy to pop into the microwave for a quick thaw!
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color and another layer of crunch. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins!
Red Onion: Just a little bit gives the salad a nice zing. I finely chop it so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing! I go for a regular or light mayo depending on my mood.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of this tangy goodness balances out the creaminess.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a subtle kick that elevates the whole dish.
Salt and Pepper: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors.
Optional Fresh Herbs: Like dill or parsley, for a burst of freshness at the end!
Is Cabbage and Ham Salad Good for You?
Let’s talk about the good stuff! This salad boasts quite a few health benefits.
Cabbage is a fantastic source of vitamins C and K, and it’s great for digestion!
Cucumber keeps you hydrated and adds fiber, making this salad a refreshing option.
Corn is an excellent source of energy, and it brings in some sweet flavor without a ton of calories.
Now, while the ham and mayonnaise give this salad its delicious heartiness, just keep in mind that they can be high in sodium and fat. Moderation is key, my friends!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish
This recipe makes about **4-6 servings**, perfect for a family lunch or a gathering with friends!
How to Make Cabbage and Ham Salad?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced ham, cucumber, sweet corn, red bell pepper, and red onion. Give it a good toss to mix everything evenly!
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and ham mixture, stirring until everything is coated evenly with that creamy goodness.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if you think it needs a little more flavor.
5. Let this beauty chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all those flavors meld together.
6. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top just before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Now, let’s get creative! You can switch it up a bit—try adding some diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. You can also swap out the ham for chicken or leave it out altogether for a vegetarian version. Serve it alongside grilled meats, or scoop it into a pita for a fun lunch option!
I can’t wait for you to try this delightful Cabbage and Ham Salad. It’s simple, tasty, and brings back so many fond memories each time I make it. I hope it finds a special place on your dining table too! Don’t forget to share your experiences or any twists you add. Happy cooking!
