Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad

A Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy-to-Make Dish

Introduction

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish that’s packed with flavor, this Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and full of textures that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a quick and easy lunch, this salad is sure to be a hit.

This dish is ideal for anyone who enjoys pasta salads but wants to try a version with a Mexican twist. The combination of mayonnaise, Mexican sour cream, mixed vegetables, ham, and a hint of spice from pickled jalapeños makes it unique and incredibly tasty. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences!

Let’s dive into the recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and plenty of useful tips to make your Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad truly perfect.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple and affordable ingredients.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust the spiciness, protein, or veggies to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or as a simple side dish.

Ingredients

To make Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad, you’ll need:

  • 2 cups small macaroni noodles (8 oz dried)
  • ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon Mexican sour cream (or crème fraîche)
  • Large pinch of salt
  • Large pinch of ground black pepper
  • 6 oz sliced ham (or more, if desired)
  • 15 oz mixed vegetable mix, drained
  • Optional: Pickled jalapeños, drained and roughly chopped (adjust according to spice level)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Strainer (for draining pasta)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process.
  4. Let the pasta cool to room temperature or drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir well until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

  1. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir until fully coated.
  2. Mix in the drained mixed vegetables, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  3. If using, add pickled jalapeños for an extra kick of spice.
  4. Finally, add the sliced ham and mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
  • Enjoy as a stand-alone dish or as a side for grilled meats, sandwiches, or tacos.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Avoid Freezing: The creamy dressing does not freeze well and can become watery when thawed.
  • Reviving Leftovers: If the salad thickens too much, add a tablespoon of mayo or sour cream before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein Swap: Substitute ham with shredded chicken, turkey, or even tuna for a different twist.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free mayo and a plant-based sour cream substitute.
  • Veggie Additions: Try adding diced bell peppers, corn, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
  • Extra Creaminess: A splash of lime juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add depth to the dressing.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pair this Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad with:

  • Grilled meats: Such as chicken, steak, or pork chops.
  • Tortilla chips: For added crunch and a fun way to scoop the salad.
  • Cold drinks: Try a Horchata, Agua Fresca, or a light Mexican beer to complement the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best when chilled for at least 30 minutes, but you can make it up to a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.

2. What’s the difference between Mexican sour cream and regular sour cream?

Mexican sour cream (crema Mexicana) is slightly thinner and has a milder taste compared to regular sour cream. If unavailable, you can substitute with crème fraîche.

3. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of pickled jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

4. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?

Absolutely! Freshly diced carrots, peas, and green beans can be blanched and used in place of canned vegetables.

5. What type of ham should I use?

Any pre-cooked ham works, including deli ham, leftover baked ham, or even ham steak diced into small pieces.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Macaroni Ham Salad is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, hosting a summer barbecue, or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this salad won’t disappoint.

If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes. Enjoy! 🌮🥗

Leave a Comment