Hearty, colorful ham and egg salad

## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Boil the Eggs**
1. Start by boiling the **eggs**: Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for **9-12 minutes** for hard-boiled eggs.
2. Once done, remove the eggs from the water and place them in a bowl of cold water to cool. Once cooled, peel the eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

### **Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables**
1. While the eggs are cooling, **dice the ham** into small cubes, and chop the **cucumber**, **cherry tomatoes**, **onion**, and **bell pepper** into bite-sized pieces.
2. If you want to add extra greens, **mix in a handful of fresh salad greens** like spinach or arugula to give your salad a fresh base.

### **Step 3: Make the Dressing**
1. In a small bowl, combine the **mayonnaise**, **Dijon mustard**, **apple cider vinegar** (or lemon juice), and a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**.
2. Whisk the dressing until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a tangier kick, you can add a little more vinegar or mustard.

### **Step 4: Assemble the Salad**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the **chopped eggs**, **diced ham**, **vegetables**, and any fresh greens you’re using.
2. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

### **Step 5: Garnish & Serve**
1. Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** or **chives** for a burst of color and extra flavor.
2. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. This salad keeps well for a day or two, so it’s great for meal prep!

## **Serving Suggestions**
– **On a Bed of Greens** – Serve this hearty salad on top of fresh leafy greens for an added crunch and freshness.
– **As a Sandwich Filling** – Spread the salad between two slices of whole-grain bread or a croissant for a satisfying sandwich.
– **With Crackers or Bread** – Pair it with some crackers, crusty bread, or pita for a full meal that’s both light and filling.

## **Tips for the Perfect Salad**
🥚 **Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs** – For perfectly cooked eggs, follow the boiling instructions carefully and don’t overcook the eggs, as this can make the yolks dry.
🍖 **Ham Alternatives** – You can also use turkey, chicken, or roast beef instead of ham if you prefer a different protein.
🌱 **Add More Veggies** – Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, avocado, or even roasted sweet potatoes to make the salad even more filling and nutrient-dense.
💡 **Meal Prep** – This salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to **2 days**. Just make sure to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

## **Final Thoughts**
This **Hearty, Colorful Ham and Egg Salad** is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal, a sandwich filling, or as a side dish, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger while adding a pop of color to your table. It’s an ideal choice for busy weekdays, picnics, or any occasion when you want a meal that’s simple yet delicious.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving something light, filling, and full of flavor. Your taste buds will thank you!

What’s your favorite salad to make? Let’s swap ideas for fresh, delicious meals! 🥗🍽