Ham salad sliders are a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a casual get-together, or a quick lunch, these sliders are the perfect choice. The Easy Ham Salad Sliders are a simple yet delicious recipe that brings together the savory flavors of ham with a creamy and tangy dressing, all nestled between soft slider buns. This dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the step-by-step process to create these mouthwatering sliders.
Ingredients:
For the Ham Salad:
- 2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 2 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Ham Salad:
- Chop the Ham:
Begin by finely chopping the cooked ham. You can use a food processor for a finer texture or a sharp knife for a chunkier consistency. The ham should be finely diced but still have some texture. - Mix the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, finely chopped red onion, celery, green bell pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined. The dressing should be creamy and smooth with a slight tang from the mustard and relish. - Combine the Ingredients:
Add the chopped ham to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the ham into the mixture until all the pieces are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. The ham salad should have a balanced flavor, with the saltiness of the ham complemented by the creamy and tangy dressing. - Chill the Ham Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ham salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad easier to spread on the buns.
Assemble the Sliders:
- Prepare the Slider Buns:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet or in a large baking dish. - Add the Ham Salad:
Spread a generous amount of the chilled ham salad onto the bottom halves of the slider buns. Ensure that each bun gets an even layer of ham salad for consistent flavor in every bite. - Add the Toppings:
Top the ham salad with a layer of mixed greens, followed by a sprinkling of shredded cheese. The mixed greens add a fresh crunch, while the cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the ham salad. If desired, add thinly sliced red onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture. - Top with Bun Lids:
Place the top halves of the slider buns over the fillings. Press down gently to secure the sliders. - Brush with Butter:
In a small bowl, melt the butter and brush it over the tops of the slider buns. This adds a rich flavor and helps to achieve a golden-brown finish when baked. If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds over the buttered buns for an added touch of texture and flavor. - Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve the Sliders:
- Remove from Oven:
Carefully remove the baking sheet or dish from the oven. Allow the sliders to cool slightly before serving. - Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the sliders to a serving platter. If desired, garnish with additional mixed greens or a sprinkle of chopped herbs for a fresh finish. Serve the sliders warm or at room temperature, accompanied by your favorite side dishes or snacks.
Conclusion
The Easy Ham Salad Sliders are a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Their simplicity, combined with the delicious blend of flavors and textures, makes them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick lunch, or looking for a tasty snack, these sliders are sure to satisfy. The recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Try adding your favorite herbs or spices to the ham salad, or experiment with different types of cheese and greens. No matter how you customize them, these sliders are bound to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful taste of Easy Ham Salad Sliders and share the joy with family and friends.
