Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those seeking a creative spin on a classic salad. Combining the sweet undertones of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of smoked ham, it creates a perfect balance of flavors. Accented with a sprinkle of crunchy almonds, a whisper of curry powder, and a tangy cider vinegar dressing, this sweet potato salad with ham is sure to delight your senses.

Photos of Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe

The ingredients in this recipe are readily available in most supermarkets. However, if you are unfamiliar with sweet potatoes, they are a starchy, sweet-tasting root vegetable, usually found in the fresh produce aisle. The smoked ham used in this recipe can be found in the deli section - if unavailable, you can substitute it with regular cooked ham. Almonds are usually found in the snacks or baking aisle, and curry powder can be found with the spices.

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Potato Salad with Ham

Sweet potatoes: A nutritious root vegetable with a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with savory ingredients.

Olive oil: Used to cook the almonds and as a base for the dressing, adding a rich and fruity flavor.

Almonds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

Curry powder: This spice blend adds an exotic touch to the recipe.

Smoked ham: Adds a savory, smoky flavor to contrast the sweetness of the potatoes.

Scallions: These provide a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color.

Cider vinegar: Gives the salad a tangy twist, brightening up the overall flavors.

Salt: An essential seasoning in almost every savory dish.

Black pepper: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds a bit of heat.

Red leaf lettuce: The base of the salad, adding a fresh, crisp texture.

One reader, Jeremie Zepeda says:

This sweet potato salad with ham recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet potatoes, smoked ham, and almonds is simply divine. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dressing ties everything together beautifully. It's a delightful and satisfying dish that's become a family favorite. Highly recommended!

Jeremie Zepeda

Techniques Required for Making Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe

How to boil sweet potatoes: Boil the sweet potatoes in a medium pot of salted water for 5 to 10 minutes until just tender, then drain and transfer them to a large bowl.

How to toast almonds with curry powder: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small frying pan over moderate heat, add the almonds and curry powder, and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.

How to make the dressing: In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the remaining ⅔ cup oil, whisking continuously.

How to toss the salad: Toss half of the dressing into the sweet-potato mixture, and then toss the lettuce into the remaining dressing.

How to serve: Place the dressed lettuce on plates, top with the sweet potato salad, and serve.

How To Make Sweet Potato Salad with Ham

Invitingly bright and tasty, this sweet potato salad is easy to assemble, made flavorful with smoked ham, curry powder, and crunchy curried almonds!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbssweet potatoes,(about 3 large potatoes)
1cupolive oil,plus an additional 1 tbsp
3tbspalmonds,sliced
½tspcurry powder
½lbsmoked ham
3scallions,green tops included
3tbspcider vinegar,or red wine vinegar, or white wine vinegar
½tspsalt
¼tspfresh ground black pepper
1red leaf lettuce head,(about 1 lb lettuce)

Instructions

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and boil for 5 to 10 minutes until just tender. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large glass or stainless-steel bowl.
In a small frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over moderate heat until it is hot but not smoking.
Add the almonds and curry powder and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer the nuts to the bowl with the sweet potatoes, and add the ham and scallions.
In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk the vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the remaining ⅔ cup oil slowly, whisking.
Toss half of the dressing into the sweet-potato mixture. Toss the lettuce into the remaining dressing.
Put on plates, top with the potato salad, then serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 799.96kcal
Fat: 59.04g
Saturated Fat: 8.27g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 42.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.74g
Carbohydrates: 54.13g
Fiber: 8.81g
Sugar: 10.46g
Protein: 16.43g
Cholesterol: 12.47mg
Sodium: 948.70mg
Calcium: 126.68mg
Potassium: 1096.59mg
Iron: 3.34mg
Vitamin A: 1903.35µg
Vitamin C: 10.76mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe

When boiling the sweet potatoes, ensure you don't overcook them. They should be just tender enough to pierce with a fork but still hold their shape. Overcooking can make them mushy and affect the texture of your salad. Also, when adding the olive oil to the dressing, do it slowly while whisking to create a smooth and well-emulsified dressing that will coat your ingredients evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Prep ahead: Chop and boil the sweet potatoes in advance to cut down on cooking time when assembling the salad.

Use pre-cooked ham: Opt for pre-cooked or leftover ham to save time on cooking and preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe

sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potatoes, and it can be used as a delicious alternative in the salad.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
almonds - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor, which can complement the salad just as well as almonds.
curry powder - Substitute with garam masala: Garam masala provides a warm and aromatic flavor similar to curry powder, adding depth to the salad.
smoked ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can offer a similar smoky flavor and texture to the salad, while providing a leaner alternative to ham.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions in the salad.
cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a slightly milder acidity and fruity flavor to the salad dressing.
red leaf lettuce - Substitute with butter lettuce: Butter lettuce has a similar tender texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for red leaf lettuce in the salad.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Elevate the plating: Arrange the sweet potato salad and ham in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each ingredient is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce colorful elements such as the red leaf lettuce to add visual interest and vibrancy to the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring a balanced and visually striking presentation.
Utilize garnishes: Incorporate finely chopped scallions and toasted almonds as a garnish to add texture and depth to the dish.
Emphasize the contrast: Create a contrast between the sweet potatoes, ham, and lettuce to make the dish visually captivating.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the different textures of the ingredients, such as the tender sweet potatoes, smoky ham, and crisp lettuce, to add visual and sensory appeal.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the ingredients to stand out.
Embrace simplicity: Keep the plating elegant and straightforward, allowing the natural beauty of the ingredients to shine through.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Medium pot: A medium-sized cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, or stewing ingredients.
Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing foods.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and stirring ingredients together.
Knife: A sharp-edged tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used as a surface for cutting and preparing food.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Strainer: A perforated bowl used for draining liquids from cooked ingredients.
Measuring cup: A cup used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Tongs: A gripping tool used for handling and turning hot ingredients.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Let the sweet potato salad cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can cook the sweet potatoes and store them separately from the dressing and other ingredients. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
While it's not recommended to freeze the entire salad, you can freeze the cooked sweet potatoes separately. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen sweet potatoes, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. You can then reheat them in the microwave or oven before adding them to the salad.
If you have leftover dressing, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good whisk or shake before using it again.
The almonds and ham can also be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing you to assemble the salad quickly when needed.
If you notice that the salad has become watery after storing, you can drain off the excess liquid and give it a gentle toss before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Reheat the sweet potato salad in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method is quick and easy, but may result in slightly softer sweet potatoes.
For a crispier texture, spread the leftover salad on a baking sheet and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the salad halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a stovetop method, reheat the sweet potato salad in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it's warmed through. This method allows you to control the temperature and texture more easily.
For a cold serving option, let the salad come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the salad isn't too chilled, which can dull the taste.
If the salad seems dry after reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a dollop of mayonnaise to restore moisture and enhance the flavor. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
To freshen up the leftover salad, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty touch.
If you have leftover ham, dice it and add it to the reheated salad for an extra protein boost and added flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Sweet Potato Salad With Ham

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and overall eye health.

Is Making Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This sweet potato salad with ham recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, sweet potatoes and ham, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of almonds and scallions adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. The versatility of this dish also makes it a great option for utilizing leftover ham or sweet potatoes, reducing food waste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sweet potato salad with ham recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Here's a breakdown:

Healthy elements:

Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense, providing fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium
Almonds offer healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E
Scallions add flavor and contain antioxidants
Lettuce provides additional fiber and vitamins

Unhealthy aspects:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories and fat
Smoked ham is processed meat, often high in sodium and preservatives
The dressing lacks a balance of acidity and sweetness, relying heavily on vinegar

While the sweet potatoes and almonds bring nutritional value to the dish, the excessive oil and processed meat detract from its overall healthiness.

To enhance the nutritional profile of this sweet potato salad, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the olive oil to 1/4 cup and replace the remaining oil with Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich dressing
Swap the smoked ham for grilled chicken breast or turkey to reduce sodium and avoid processed meats
Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing for a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar
Incorporate more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and antioxidants

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on the Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe

This sweet potato salad with ham recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweet potatoes provide a hearty and nutritious base, while the smoked ham adds a savory element. The almonds and curry powder bring a delightful crunch and aromatic essence to the dish. The cider vinegar dressing ties everything together with a tangy and refreshing note. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and well-balanced dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.

Enhance Your Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection, with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing kick.

Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Delicious Alternatives to Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: This hearty and nutritious bowl is packed with roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a flavorful dressing. It's a perfect option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This delicious and easy-to-make salmon dish is coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. It's a great way to add some variety to your seafood dinners.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical chia pudding made with fresh mango and coconut milk. It's a refreshing and guilt-free dessert option for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sweet Potato Salad With Ham Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or a tasty snack.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring fresh and wholesome ingredients. The sweet potatoes provide a nutritious base, complemented by the savory notes of smoked ham and the crunch of almonds. The dressing, made with cider vinegar and olive oil, ties everything together with a burst of tangy and rich flavors. With the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, this dish promises to be a delightful addition to any meal.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Sweet Potato Salad with Ham Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I substitute the sweet potatoes with regular potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different. Sweet potatoes have a sweeter and creamier texture compared to regular potatoes.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?

Absolutely! You can use any type of nut you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews. Feel free to experiment with different nuts to find the flavor and texture you enjoy the most.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the smoked ham?

Yes, you can substitute the smoked ham with vegetarian bacon or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative. You can also omit the ham altogether and add extra nuts or roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using it to re-emulsify the ingredients.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. The flavors actually develop more after the salad sits for a while. Just wait to add the lettuce until you're ready to serve to keep it crisp and fresh.