Are you tired of the same old game day snacks? Craving something a little different, something tangy and surprisingly addictive? Then look no further! This pickle dip recipe with ham is the perfect solution. It's unbelievably easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Forget store-bought dips; this homemade version is far superior and surprisingly healthy. This delicious dish is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a tasty appetizer. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite – full-fat, light, or even vegan)
- 1 cup sour cream (again, your choice of fat content)
- 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles, juice included
- 1/2 cup finely chopped sweet pickles, juice included
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked ham
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust)
- Optional: Paprika for garnish
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Begin by finely chopping all your ingredients. The smaller the pieces, the better the texture of the final dip. Make sure your ham is cooked and completely cooled before adding it to the mix.
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Combine the wet ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
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Add the pickles and their juice: Stir in the chopped dill and sweet pickles, along with their juices. This adds a fantastic tangy flavor and helps create a nice, creamy consistency.
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Incorporate the remaining ingredients: Add the chopped ham, red onion, fresh dill (or dried dill), yellow mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious dip! Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
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Enjoy! Serve your pickle dip with ham with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, vegetables, or even crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pickle Dip:
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Don't over-mix: Over-mixing can sometimes make the dip a little watery. Gentle mixing is key!
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Taste and adjust: Taste the dip before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
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Make it ahead: This dip tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time.
Delicious Variations:
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Spicy Pickle Dip: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
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Bacon Pickle Dip: Swap the ham for cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
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Cream Cheese Pickle Dip: Substitute some or all of the sour cream with cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, will vary based on ingredients used):
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
This recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this fantastic healthy meal or appetizer. It’s a guaranteed hit with friends and family, and a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes. Happy cooking!