What Salads Go with Ham: 20+ Perfect Pairings

Have you ever wondered what salads go with ham? I love how ham brings such a rich, savory taste to any meal, and pairing it with the right salad makes everything better!

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a summer cookout, or just a regular dinner, I’ve got some amazing salad ideas for you.

From crispy and fresh to creamy and hearty, these salads will make your ham shine.

Let me share my favorite combinations that’ll make your meals extra special.

Classic Salad Pairings for Ham

You can never go wrong with these tried-and-true favorites that have stood the test of time. These classic combinations bring comfort and familiarity to any ham dinner.

Classic Coleslaw

Crispy shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in creamy dressing always remind me of family picnics.

I love the crunch and tang that perfectly cuts through the rich ham flavor.

My grandma taught me to add a tiny pinch of celery seeds – it makes all the difference!

Simple Green Salad

Fresh lettuce leaves, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers create a light and refreshing side.

I like to add some red onions and a simple vinaigrette. You’ll love how the fresh veggies balance out the salty ham.

Potato Salad

Creamy chunks of potatoes mixed with crunchy celery and pickles bring back memories of summer picnics.

I add hard-boiled eggs and a touch of mustard to my mayo dressing.

You’ll find this combo super filling and tasty with any ham dish.

Macaroni Salad

Tender elbow pasta mixed with crispy bell peppers and celery creates the perfect side.

My secret is adding a splash of pickle juice to the creamy dressing.

Kids always grab seconds when I serve this at family gatherings.

Simple Kale Salad

Massaged kale leaves tossed with lemon juice and olive oil make a super healthy option.

I love adding toasted pine nuts and parmesan shavings on top.

The hearty greens stand up perfectly to warm ham slices without getting soggy.

Light and Fresh Options

When you want something crisp and refreshing with your ham, these light salads bring bright flavors without weighing down your meal.

Apple Walnut Salad

Sweet, crisp apple chunks mixed with toasted walnuts and baby spinach create a delightful crunch.

I drizzle honey mustard dressing and sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles. The sweet-savory combo works magic with ham.

Orange and Fennel Salad

Orange and fennel salad is bright, zesty, and so simple! Juicy orange slices, crisp fennel, and red onions come together with a citrusy vinaigrette.

It’s colorful, fresh, and one of those salads that pair well with ham. Try it for lunch or holiday dinners!

Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

Cool cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and red onions bring Mediterranean freshness to your plate.

I add kalamata olives and feta cheese chunks. A simple Greek dressing makes this light salad pop next to the ham.

Seasonal Salads to Serve with Ham

The changing seasons bring fresh ingredients that pair perfectly with ham. Let’s explore vibrant spring/summer options and cozy fall/winter combinations that’ll make your meals special.

Spring/Summer Options

Bright, fresh ingredients shine in these warm-weather salads that celebrate the bounty of spring and summer gardens.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and baby spinach create the perfect spring combo. I love adding sliced almonds and red onions for extra crunch.

A poppy seed dressing makes this salad sing, and it always disappears first at my springtime brunches.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Juicy watermelon chunks with salty feta create an amazing summer treat. I mix in fresh mint leaves and cucumber slices.

A splash of lime juice and olive oil makes this refreshing salad perfect for hot days.

Fresh Corn and Tomato Salad

Sweet corn kernels and medium tomatoes burst with summer flavors. I toss in fresh basil and crumbled Feta cheese.

A light vinaigrette lets these garden-fresh ingredients shine, making it my go-to for backyard barbecues.

Fall/Winter Options

Cozy, hearty ingredients and warm flavors make these seasonal salads perfect companions for cold-weather ham dinners.

Roasted Root Vegetable Salad

Caramelized sweet potatoes, baby potatoes, red beets, carrots, and parsnips bring cozy warmth to winter meals.

I serve them over mixed greens while still warm. A cilantro dressing dressing ties everything together perfectly.

Cranberry, Goat Cheese, and Pecan Salad

Dried cranberries and toasted pecans add festive touches to mixed greens.

I sprinkle some goat cheese and add sliced pears. My honey balsamic dressing makes this perfect for holiday dinners.

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Crispy, roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with bacon bits create winter comfort.

I add toasted almonds and parmesan shavings. A warm mustard vinaigrette makes this hearty salad extra special.

International-Inspired Salads

Take your taste buds on a world tour with these globally-inspired salads that complement ham beautifully.

German Potato Salad

Warm potatoes tossed in tangy vinegar dressing bring authentic German flavors.

I add crispy bacon and fresh herbs. The warm-cold contrast makes this version different from American potato salad.

Italian Antipasto Salad

Marinated artichokes, olives, and pepperoncini create Mediterranean magic.

I add fresh mozzarella balls and salami chunks. An Italian herb vinaigrette makes this salad taste like a vacation in Italy.

French Carrot Salad

Shredded carrots with Dijon mustard dressing offer Parisian simplicity. I mix in fresh parsley and golden raisins. This light, crispy salad brings French bistro vibes to any ham dinner.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Protein-packed quinoa mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and red onions creates a healthy base.

I add kalamata olives and crumbled feta. Lemon-herb dressing makes this salad both filling and refreshing.

Make-Ahead Salads for Ham Dinners

Save time with these delicious salads you can prepare in advance, perfect for busy days and special occasions.

Broccoli Bacon Salad

Crispy broccoli florets and bacon bits create an irresistible combo.

I add red onions and sunflower seeds for extra crunch. The creamy dressing gets even better after sitting overnight.

Seven Layer Salad

Colorful layers of lettuce, peas, eggs, and bacon make this salad stunning.

I add cheese and green onions between layers. The creamy dressing seals everything fresh overnight.

Marinated Vegetable Salad

Fresh vegetables soaked in zesty Italian dressing develop amazing flavors.

I mix bell peppers, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes. This salad tastes even better after marinating for 24 hours.

Final Thoughts

Wondering what salads go with ham? Now you’ve got plenty of options!

I love how these different salads can transform a simple ham dinner into something special.

Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or rich and creamy, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas or add your own twist.

I’d love to hear about your favorite combinations – drop a comment below and share your ham-and-salad success stories!