If you’re looking for a delightful mix of crunchy, creamy, and savory all in one bowl, this Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe is your new go-to. It combines crisp shredded cabbage with tender cooked ham, bright green onions, and sweet shredded carrots, all brought together with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, family gatherings, or simply when you want something refreshing yet satisfying, this salad is a celebration of simple ingredients shining in perfect harmony. The best part? It’s effortless to make but utterly charming on the plate and palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this salad is straightforward, fresh, and full of texture and taste. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the crunch of the cabbage to the zing of the Dijon mustard that lifts the entire dish.
- 4 cups shredded cabbage: Provides the crisp and refreshing base that crunches with every bite.
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced: Adds a savory, meaty element that complements the freshness beautifully.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess that binds all the flavors together smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang and slight punch to brighten the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a nice acidity that balances the richness of the mayo and ham.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced: Adds freshness and a mild onion bite that enlivens each mouthful.
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots: Introduces a lovely splash of color and natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Rounds out the flavors with just the right touch of sweetness.
How to Make Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients With Care
Start with clean hands to handle everything safely. Gather a large mixing bowl to mix all your fresh and vibrant ingredients.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Ham
Begin by placing the shredded cabbage into your bowl, then add the diced cooked ham. These two form the hearty foundation of this salad.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Dressing Components
Next, incorporate the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard along with apple cider vinegar. This combination creates the luscious, tangy dressing that elevates the ingredients.
Step 4: Season the Salad
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper carefully to ensure balanced seasoning throughout. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go to get it just right.
Step 5: Add Color and Crunch
Fold in the sliced green onions and shredded carrots. These little bursts of freshness and sweetness really brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Step 6: Sweeten and Combine
Drizzle in honey for that subtle hint of sweetness. Then, gently toss everything together with a large spoon or spatula until the salad is evenly coated and beautifully blended.
Step 7: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows all the flavors to marry and settle for the best taste experience.
Step 8: Final Touch Before Serving
Give the salad a final stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly for each bite.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra slices of green onions or a light dusting of freshly cracked pepper on top for a polished finish. You might even add a few toasted nuts for texture contrast if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with hearty sandwiches, grilled chicken, or even alongside a warm bowl of soup. Its crisp freshness cuts through richer mains, making it a perfect light side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual lettuce cups or on a bed of mixed greens for an elegant presentation. You can also plate it alongside crusty bread for a rustic, satisfying meal atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal crunch and flavor.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, which can separate and become soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. It’s made to be served cold or at room temperature, keeping all the textures crisp and delightful.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mustard in the Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While Dijon mustard offers a smooth and mild tang, you can experiment with yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard for a different flavor twist.
Is it possible to add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, adding crunchy veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers can enhance both the texture and nutrition, but try to keep the additions balanced to maintain the salad’s original charm.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To veganize this Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe, substitute the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh and use vegan mayonnaise. The flavor will differ but still taste delicious.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
At least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is ideal. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soak up the dressing.
What can I do if the salad tastes too tangy?
If it ends up a bit too tangy, simply add a touch more honey or mayonnaise to balance the acidity and smooth out the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe is a treasure trove of textures and tastes that comes together quickly and easily. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again and again. It’s light yet filling, colorful yet simple—a true crowd-pleaser that deserves a spot on your menu any time you crave something fresh and satisfying.
Print
Cabbage and Ham Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This crisp and creamy Cabbage and Ham Salad combines shredded cabbage, tender diced ham, and a tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey. Enhanced with fresh green onions and shredded carrots, this easy-to-make salad is a perfect refreshing side dish that’s ready in minutes with a quick chill for flavor melding.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Clean hands: Begin by washing your hands thoroughly to ensure cleanliness before handling any ingredients.
- Prepare bowl: Take a large mixing bowl and set it aside on your workspace.
- Add cabbage: Next, grab 4 cups of shredded cabbage and carefully add it to the bowl.
- Dice ham: Take 1 cup of cooked ham and dice it into small, uniform pieces.
- Combine ham and cabbage: Add the diced ham to the bowl with the cabbage.
- Add mayonnaise: Measure out 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and spoon it into the bowl.
- Add mustard: Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture.
- Add vinegar: Pour 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into the bowl for tanginess.
- Season with salt: Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt evenly over the ingredients.
- Add pepper: Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add green onions: Chop 1/4 cup of green onions into thin slices and add them to the bowl.
- Add carrots: Shred 1/4 cup of carrots finely and add to the mix.
- Add honey: Pour in 1 tablespoon of honey to balance flavors with sweetness.
- Mix salad: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or honey if needed to suit your preference.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Stir before serving: After chilling, remove the salad from the fridge and give it a quick stir.
- Serve: Serve the cabbage and ham salad in individual bowls or as a side dish alongside your favorite meals.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- The salad can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated to deepen flavors.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an herbal twist.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
- If avoiding honey, substitute with maple syrup or omit sweetener altogether.
