Imagine a salad that’s not just a side dish but a vibrant celebration of flavors and colors. The Ham and Pea Salad bursts with sweet peas, crunchy bits of ham, and a creamy dressing that whispers promises of comfort. Picture it on your picnic table, sunshine glistening off its fresh ingredients, inviting you to dive in. hearty cheddar corn chowder comforting potato corn chowder This delightful combination doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it sets the stage for joyous moments with family and friends. For more inspiration, check out this Pomegranate Guacamole recipe recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use canned peas instead of fresh or frozen?
- How long does ham and pea salad last in the fridge?
- What dressing works best with ham and pea salad?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this Ham and Pea Salad for a summer barbecue. My uncle, who believes everything should be grilled, took one look at it and said, “What’s this? A rabbit’s dinner?” Little did he know, one bite would change his mind! This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or just when you want something quick yet delicious. delicious roasted cauliflower Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ham and Pea Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its refreshing flavor profile balances sweetness from the peas with savory ham
- The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing on any plate
- Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side salad alongside your favorite proteins
I once served this salad at a family reunion, and the clean plate club was formed—everyone loved it.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Peas: Opt for sweet peas if available; they add a delightful burst of flavor to each bite.
Diced Ham: Choose quality ham from the deli; it enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Sour Cream: This is crucial for creaminess; full-fat sour cream provides richer flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use a good-quality mayo to elevate the dressing’s creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
Red Onion: Finely chop for a mild crunch; red onions add both color and zing.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together; adjust according to taste.
Dill or Parsley (optional): Fresh herbs can brighten up the salad; choose based on your preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse fresh peas under cold water until they’re vibrant green and ready to shine in this salad.
Mix Your Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth, then season with salt and pepper. Taste test—add more seasoning if necessary!
Add Your Veggies: Toss in finely chopped red onion along with those beautiful sweet peas into your dressing mixture. The crunchiness will surprise you!
Incorporate the Ham: Gently fold in diced ham into the mixture while being careful not to mash those precious peas. You want them intact for maximum texture.
Chill Before Serving: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this helps flavors meld beautifully.
Serve & Enjoy!: When ready, scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired—your guests will be impressed!
This Ham and Pea Salad isn’t just another recipe; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen! Whether you’re enjoying it at home or bringing it along to share with others, each bite will surely delight your taste buds! paired perfectly with black beans.
You Must Know
- This refreshing ham and pea salad is not just a dish; it’s a burst of color and flavor that can brighten any meal
- The combination of sweet peas, savory ham, and zesty dressing creates a delightful harmony, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make this ham and pea salad shine, start by preparing your veggies while the ham cools. This way, all flavors blend beautifully.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try adding diced bell peppers or swapping the ham for turkey for a lighter option.
Storing & Reheating
Store this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; enjoy it chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste; frozen peas work wonders too
- Always chill the salad before serving for enhanced flavor
- A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish immensely!
Sharing a memorable moment: I once made this salad for my cousin’s picnic, and everyone raved about it—now they request it at every family gathering!
FAQ
Can I use canned peas instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, but fresh or frozen peas offer better texture and flavor.
How long does ham and pea salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly.
What dressing works best with ham and pea salad?
A light vinaigrette complements the salad beautifully without overpowering it.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Ham and Pea Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of this Ham and Pea Salad, a perfect dish for summer gatherings or potlucks. Bursting with sweet peas, savory ham, and a creamy dressing, this salad promises to impress at any occasion. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh sweet peas
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper; mix until smooth.
- Add the chopped red onion and sweet peas to the dressing; gently toss to combine.
- Fold in the diced ham carefully to maintain the texture of the peas.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg





