Cold Rice Mozzarella Ham Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Do you remember those summer potlucks where the tables groaned under the weight of dishes, each one a labor of love? For me, this Cold Rice Mozzarella Ham Salad instantly conjures up images of sunny afternoons, paper plates overflowing with food, and the sound of laughter echoing through the air. My Aunt Millie, the undisputed queen of casual get-togethers, always brought a version of this salad, and it was invariably the first thing to disappear. Now, armed with my own version honed over the years, I carry on the tradition, bringing this simple yet satisfying salad to barbecues, picnics, and family reunions. It’s a guaranteed hit, and I can’t wait to share the recipe with you!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Servings: 8
• Yield: Approximately 10 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check mayonnaise ingredients)

Ingredients

• 2 cups Uncle Ben’s Converted White Rice
• 4 cups Water
• Salt and Pepper
• 1 1/2 – 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (can use cheddar also, or both!)
• 2 1/2 cups Mayonnaise
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 2 – 3 tablespoons Prepared Yellow Mustard (or to taste)
• 3 Celery Ribs, finely chopped
• 2 cups Cooked Ham, chopped small

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or mixing spoon
• Plastic wrap or airtight container

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the rice. In a large saucepan, combine the 2 cups of Uncle Ben’s converted white rice and 4 cups of water. Add approximately 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Follow package directions.
3. Once cooked, remove the rice from the heat and allow it to cool completely. This is a crucial step, as warm rice will make the mayonnaise dressing separate and result in a soggy salad. You can speed up the cooling process by spreading the rice out on a baking sheet or in a shallow dish.
4. While the rice is cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Finely chop 1 onion and 3 celery ribs. Also, chop the 2 cups of cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the completely cooled cooked rice with the chopped onion, celery, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped ham.
6. In a separate, small mixing bowl, prepare the dressing. Combine the 2 1/2 cups of mayonnaise with 2-3 tablespoons of prepared yellow mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with 2 tablespoons of mustard, then add more to taste until you achieve the desired tanginess.
7. Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the rice mixture in the large bowl. Gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad mushy.
8. Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a creamier salad, add more mayonnaise. If you want a more pronounced mustard flavor, add a bit more mustard. Add more salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
10. Refrigerate the salad for a minimum of 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to reach the optimal temperature.
11. After chilling, stir gently before serving. The salad may have settled slightly, so a quick stir will redistribute the ingredients.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the cooling step! Warm rice will ruin the texture of the salad. Spread it out to cool it faster.
• Taste as you go. Adjust the mayonnaise and mustard to your preference. Some people prefer a tangier salad, while others like it creamier.
• Make it ahead: This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after a day or two in the refrigerator.
• Prevent mushiness: Gently fold in the dressing to avoid breaking down the rice grains.
• Control salt: Ham and some cheeses can be salty, so taste before adding more salt.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Cold Rice Mozzarella Ham Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a potluck staple. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra shreds of mozzarella cheese for a more appealing presentation.

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Due to the mayonnaise content, it is not recommended to leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the mayonnaise will change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	542 kcal	27%
Total Fat	35.5g	55%
Saturated Fat	8.6g	43%
Cholesterol	67.4mg	22%
Sodium	735mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	39.7g	13%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	5.9g	N/A
Protein	16.6g	33%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack would all be delicious.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley for added flavor.
• Vinegar Kick: Add a tablespoon of white vinegar, rice vinegar, or lemon juice to the mayonnaise dressing for a brighter taste.
• Low Fat: Substitute low-fat mayonnaise and cheese to reduce fat content.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of rice?
A: While Uncle Ben’s converted rice is recommended for its texture, you can use other long-grain white rice. However, be mindful that cooking times may vary.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, this salad is even better when made a day or two in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld together.

Q: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, this salad will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the mayonnaise will change and the salad may become watery upon thawing.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables that you enjoy, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Cold Rice Mozzarella Ham Salad as much as I do. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. Let me know what you think and what variations you’ve tried! I would suggest serving this salad with grilled chicken or hamburgers and a side of fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!