Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad

Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad Recipe - A Delicious and Authentic Dish from Hawaii

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad is a delicious and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of ham, pineapple, strawberries, and bananas with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

This recipe is inspired by the flavors of Hawaii, where tropical fruits like pineapple and bananas are abundant. The addition of ham adds a savory element to the salad, making it a well-rounded dish that is both sweet and savory.

Ingredients

1 (20 oz (567 g)) can of pineapple chunks
1 cup of mayonnaise
0.5 tsp of dry mustard
2 cups of ham, strips or chunks
1 cup of celery, sliced
2 cups of strawberries, halves
2 large bananas, sliced

How to prepare

Drain the pineapple, reserving 2 tbsp of syrup.
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, and the reserved syrup. Mix well and set aside to chill.
In the same bowl, lightly mix together the drained pineapple, ham, celery, and strawberries. Chill before serving.
Just before serving, add the bananas and toss lightly.
Serve the mixture in a lettuce-lined bowl and top with the dressing.
This recipe can be easily doubled. However, if doubling, there is no need to double the dressing as there is plenty. Use sparingly even with a single batch.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist.
Use different fruits such as mango or papaya for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chill the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Use a good quality mayonnaise for the dressing to ensure a creamy and flavorful result.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite fruits or add-ins, such as nuts or coconut flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with a glass of iced tea or a tropical fruit smoothie.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires minimal cooking and is mostly assembly. Be sure to chill the salad before serving for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

- Substitute the ham with cooked bacon or prosciutto for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the bananas just before serving to prevent them from turning brown.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large lettuce-lined bowl for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp. Serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture of the fruits may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs (mayonnaise) and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal or snack.

Summary

Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. With a mix of sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day in Hawaii, and I had been invited to a luau at a friend's house. As I walked through the door, the sweet aroma of pineapple and ham filled the air, and I knew that I was in for a treat.

I made my way to the backyard where the festivities were in full swing. There were people dancing hula, children playing in the pool, and the sound of ukulele music drifting through the air. I spotted my friend, Auntie Lani, who was busy preparing the food for the party. She waved me over and handed me a plate of Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad.

I took a bite and was immediately hooked. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and tangy dressing was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Auntie Lani saw the look of delight on my face and chuckled. "You like it, huh?" she asked.

I nodded enthusiastically. "It's amazing! How did you come up with this recipe?"

Auntie Lani smiled and motioned for me to follow her into the kitchen. As we worked together, she shared the story of how she learned to make Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad.

"It all started when I was a young girl," Auntie Lani began. "My grandmother used to make this salad for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays. She learned the recipe from a friend who had lived in Kona, Hawaii for many years."

As Auntie Lani peeled the pineapple and diced the ham, she explained how her grandmother had passed down the recipe to her mother, who then taught her how to make it. She described the process with such passion and love that I could tell this dish held a special place in her heart.

"I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe over the years," Auntie Lani said with a wink. "But the essence of it remains the same - the perfect balance of flavors that reminds me of home."

As we finished preparing the salad, Auntie Lani poured the dressing over the mixture and tossed it gently. The colors of the pineapple, ham, and vegetables mixed together beautifully, creating a rainbow of flavors on the plate.

I couldn't wait to taste it again. Auntie Lani handed me a fork, and I took a bite. The familiar taste of sweet pineapple and salty ham danced on my tongue, bringing back memories of warm summer days in Hawaii.

"That's the secret ingredient," Auntie Lani said with a smile. "A little bit of nostalgia and a whole lot of love."

As I enjoyed the salad, I made a mental note to add this recipe to my collection. I knew that this dish would be a hit at gatherings with family and friends, just like it was at Auntie Lani's luau.

From that day on, Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad became a staple in my kitchen. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition that Auntie Lani had started so many years ago.

And every time I make it, I think of her and the memories we created together in that kitchen in Hawaii. The flavors of the islands come alive in every bite, reminding me of the beauty and warmth of that place I once called home.

So if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Hawaii, just whip up a batch of Kona Ham Hawaiian Salad. It's sure to transport you to a tropical paradise, even if just for a moment.