Bold & Refreshing: Boar’s Head BourbonRidge Ham Summer Salad Recipes
Summer is the perfect time for light, refreshing, and flavorful salads. And what better way to elevate your summer salad game than with the rich, smoky flavor of Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham? This ham brings a unique depth and complexity that pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore several delicious and easy-to-make summer salad recipes featuring Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham, providing you with detailed steps and instructions to create culinary masterpieces. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these vibrant and satisfying salads!
## Why Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham is the Perfect Salad Ingredient
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham is an excellent choice for summer salads:
* **Unmatched Flavor:** The slow smoking process infused with bourbon and spices creates a unique, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor profile that stands out in any salad.
* **High-Quality Ingredients:** Boar’s Head is known for using premium ingredients and traditional curing methods, ensuring a superior taste and texture.
* **Uncured Goodness:** Being uncured means no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier option for your summer meals.
* **Versatile:** The ham’s robust flavor complements a wide range of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and dressings.
* **Convenient:** It’s readily available at most delis and grocery stores, making it easy to incorporate into your meal planning.
## Essential Salad-Making Tips
Before we get started with the recipes, here are a few general tips to ensure your salads are always top-notch:
* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The best salads start with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients possible. Look for ripe, in-season fruits and vegetables.
* **Wash and Dry Greens Thoroughly:** No one likes a soggy salad. Make sure your greens are completely dry before adding any other ingredients.
* **Cut Ingredients into Bite-Sized Pieces:** This makes the salad easier to eat and ensures that each bite is a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
* **Don’t Overdress:** Add dressing gradually, tossing until the salad is lightly coated. Overdressing can weigh down the salad and mask the flavors of the ingredients.
* **Chill Before Serving:** Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall experience.
* **Prepare Ahead:** Many salad components, such as chopped vegetables and cooked grains, can be prepared ahead of time to save time during the week.
## Recipe 1: BourbonRidge Ham & Grilled Peach Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This salad combines the smoky sweetness of Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham with the juicy, grilled flavor of peaches, creating a delightful summer taste sensation. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy and sweet finish that ties everything together.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
* 5 oz mixed greens
* 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
* 1/4 cup toasted pecans
* 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Peaches:** Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. Grill the peaches, cut-side down, for 3-4 minutes, or until grill marks appear and they are slightly softened. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, dice the grilled peaches.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced BourbonRidge ham, grilled peaches, goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to combine.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the salad immediately and enjoy the combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with grilled halloumi cheese.
* Add a handful of fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
* Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans, if desired.
* Make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens.
## Recipe 2: BourbonRidge Ham & Watermelon Salad with Mint-Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of salty ham, sweet watermelon, and tangy mint-lime dressing is incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 4 cups cubed watermelon
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
* 1 lime, juiced and zested
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon honey
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in the chopped fresh mint.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, diced BourbonRidge ham, feta cheese, and red onion.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the mint-lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use different types of melon, such as cantaloupe or honeydew, for a variety of flavors.
* Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese, if desired.
* Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
## Recipe 3: BourbonRidge Ham & Corn Salad with Avocado Crema
This creamy and flavorful salad is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the smoky ham, while the avocado crema adds a rich and velvety texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
* 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 ripe avocados
* 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Avocado Crema:** In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, diced BourbonRidge ham, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Gently fold the avocado crema into the salad until everything is well coated.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a jalapeño pepper (finely chopped) to the avocado crema for a spicy kick.
* Substitute black beans for corn, if desired.
* Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge for presentation.
* For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the avocado crema.
## Recipe 4: BourbonRidge Ham & Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This hearty and nutritious salad is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The quinoa provides a good source of protein and fiber, while the lemon vinaigrette adds a bright and tangy flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 1 cup cooked quinoa
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
* 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 4 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced BourbonRidge ham, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
* Substitute chickpeas or cannellini beans for quinoa, if desired.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella.
* Garnish with lemon zest for a bright citrus flavor.
## Recipe 5: BourbonRidge Ham & Pasta Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
This classic pasta salad gets a flavor upgrade with the addition of Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham. The creamy dill dressing complements the smoky ham and fresh vegetables perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1/2 cup carrots, diced
* 1/2 cup celery, diced
* 1/4 cup red onion, diced
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced BourbonRidge ham, broccoli florets, carrots, celery, and red onion.
4. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the creamy dill dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add cheddar cheese cubes for a cheesier salad.
* Use different types of vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas.
* Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option.
* Garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
## Recipe 6: BourbonRidge Ham & Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
This vibrant and flavorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the salty ham and the earthy spinach. The poppy seed dressing adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 5 oz baby spinach
* 1 cup sliced strawberries
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
* 1/4 cup poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, diced BourbonRidge ham, sliced strawberries, and red onion.
2. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
3. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over the salad. Serve immediately and enjoy.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese for a tangy flavor.
* Use different types of berries, such as blueberries or raspberries.
* Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds, if desired.
* Make your own poppy seed dressing by combining mayonnaise, honey, vinegar, mustard, and poppy seeds.
## Recipe 7: BourbonRidge Ham and Fig Salad with Arugula and Gorgonzola
This sophisticated salad offers a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and peppery flavors. The figs provide a chewy sweetness that complements the smoky ham and the peppery arugula. Gorgonzola cheese adds a creamy, tangy note.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, thinly sliced
* 5 oz arugula
* 6 fresh figs, quartered
* 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
* 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
* 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
* Freshly ground black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Arrange the Salad:** On a large platter or in individual bowls, arrange the arugula. Top with the Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham, quartered figs, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese.
2. **Dress and Garnish:** Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and freshly ground black pepper.
3. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavors.
**Tips and Variations:**
* If fresh figs are not available, you can use dried figs that have been rehydrated in warm water.
* Substitute prosciutto for BourbonRidge Ham for a similar flavor profile.
* Use a different type of blue cheese if Gorgonzola is not available.
* Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
## Recipe 8: BourbonRidge Ham, Apple, and Walnut Salad with Maple-Dijon Dressing
This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of apples, the crunch of walnuts, and the savory taste of Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham. The Maple-Dijon dressing adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, diced
* 4 cups mixed greens
* 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
* 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese
* 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
* **For the Maple-Dijon Dressing:**
* 3 tbsp olive oil
* 2 tbsp maple syrup
* 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
* 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Ham, diced apple, crumbled cheese, and toasted walnuts.
3. **Dress and Serve:** Drizzle the Maple-Dijon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of apples to vary the flavor profile.
* Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
* Add dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
* For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with grilled tofu or tempeh.
## Conclusion
Boar’s Head Bold BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham is a fantastic ingredient for adding depth and flavor to your summer salads. These recipes provide a starting point for your culinary adventures, and you can easily adapt them to your own tastes and preferences. So, grab a package of Boar’s Head BourbonRidge Ham and start experimenting with these bold and refreshing summer salad recipes. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the ease of preparation – perfect for those warm summer days!