Ham and cheese salad
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
From ingredients
5 products
Мясные продукты
Заправка
SIMPLE PROCESS
Step by step recipe
The secret to this salad is uniform matchstick slicing – it ensures even coating of dressing and a great look. Use high-quality ham and a good melting cheese like Gouda or Edam. Add cucumber just before serving to keep it crunchy. Swap mayo for sour cream or yogurt for a lighter twist.
Prep the ingredients
Slice ham and cheese into thin matchsticks (about 1.5–2 inches long, ⅛ inch thick). Slice cucumber into same-sized strips. Cut cherry tomatoes into quarters or halves.
Combine in a bowl
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced ham, cheese, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
Add dressing
Add mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently mix with a spoon until everything is evenly coated.
Serve
Transfer to a serving plate or bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon wedge if desired. Serve immediately.
CHEF'S TIP
Choosing the ham
Pick ham that is lean and not watery – it cuts better and has a richer taste. Both cooked and smoked ham work well.
Best cheese for this salad
Use semi-hard cheeses that are easy to slice without crumbling – Gouda, Edam, or Monterey Jack. For extra kick, add a little Parmesan.
Matchstick cutting technique
Slice all ingredients into thin matchsticks (about 1.5–2 inches long and ⅛ inch thick). This makes the salad look professional and easy to eat.
Keep cucumber crisp
Add cucumber right before serving – otherwise it releases water and makes the salad watery. If bitter, peel the skin.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Add your taste
- Replace mayo with sour cream or yogurt Use 10% sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing – cuts calories and adds freshness.
- Ham substitute – chicken breast or turkey Poached chicken breast or lean turkey work great instead of ham, keeping the salad filling and low-cal.
- Add herbs for extra flavor Fresh dill, parsley, or green onions boost the aroma. You can also toss in lettuce or arugula for extra freshness.
- Vegetarian version Skip the ham, increase cucumber and tomatoes, and add bell pepper – a light veggie salad.
HOW TO STORE
How to Store Ham and Cheese Salad
Best eaten immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 12 hours. Bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. Freezing is not recommended – cucumbers and mayo lose texture.
GOOD TO KNOW