When it comes to the world of culinary delights, few dishes can match the timeless appeal of ham. Ham, whether it's a succulent, honey-glazed spiral ham or a smoky country ham, has the power to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a favorite for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, and special occasions. However, while ham can undoubtedly stand alone as a star of the table, the experience of enjoying it can be taken to new heights when paired with the perfect side dishes. These sides should complement and enhance the flavors of the ham, creating a harmonious symphony of taste on your plate.
In this culinary journey, we will explore a wide range of side dishes for ham that cater to various tastes and preferences. From the classic and traditional choices that have stood the test of time to modern twists and international flavors that bring a world of culinary creativity to your table, there's something for everyone. We'll also delve into vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that dietary restrictions don't hinder your enjoyment of a delicious ham dinner.
So, prepare to tantalize your taste buds and transform your ham dinners into memorable gastronomic experiences.
Traditional Classics
Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
Scalloped potatoes have been gracing dinner tables alongside ham for generations, and for good reason. This classic side dish is the epitome of comfort food. It combines thinly sliced potatoes with a luscious mixture of cream, butter, and a touch of seasoning, all baked to golden perfection. The result is a creamy, tender, and slightly crispy creation that complements the savory ham beautifully. The creamy texture of the potatoes provides a luxurious contrast to the meat's richness, making every bite a delight.
Green Bean Almondine: A Light and Crunchy Option
For those seeking a lighter option, green bean almondine is a go-to choice. This classic French dish takes fresh green beans and blanches them to retain their vibrant color and crispness. They are then sautéed with butter and slivered almonds, adding a subtle nuttiness to the dish. The crunch of the almonds and the tender-crisp beans create a pleasing balance alongside your ham. The slightly nutty flavor of the almonds enhances the overall experience without overpowering the palate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweetness Meets Saltiness
Ham and honey have a natural affinity, and this is where honey-glazed carrots come into play. This side dish features carrots simmered in a mixture of honey, butter, and a hint of brown sugar until they become tender and caramelized. The sweetness of the honey glaze pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the ham. It's a delightful combination that plays with sweet and savory flavors, creating a memorable dining experience.
Pairing Tip: Consider the Flavor Profile of Your Ham
When choosing a traditional classic side dish for your ham dinner, it's essential to consider the flavor profile of your ham. For example, if your ham is glazed with honey or maple syrup, complement it with sides that embrace sweetness. If your ham is smoky or savory, opt for sides that provide contrast and balance.
Modern Twists
Grilled Pineapple Salsa: A Tropical Fusion
In the world of modern twists, grilled pineapple salsa stands out as a delightful and unexpected accompaniment for ham. Grilling pineapple slices before incorporating them into a salsa adds a smoky, caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with ham's savory notes. To create this vibrant salsa, combine the grilled pineapple with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño for a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The result is a refreshing and zesty topping that brightens up your ham.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles: Indulgence Meets Sophistication
For an indulgent yet sophisticated side dish, look no further than bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles. This contemporary creation combines the freshness of asparagus with the richness of bacon, creating a marriage of flavors and textures that pairs wonderfully with ham. To make this dish, wrap fresh asparagus spears with crispy bacon slices, securing them with toothpicks. Roast these bundles until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy, offering a savory and delightful contrast to your ham centerpiece.
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad: Healthy and Vibrant
For those who lean towards healthier options, a quinoa and roasted vegetable salad is an excellent choice. This dish combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. A zesty vinaigrette ties it all together, making it a refreshing and nutritious accompaniment to your ham. The earthy flavors of the roasted vegetables and the lightness of quinoa create a balanced and satisfying pairing.
Pairing Tip: Consider Textures and Temperatures
When incorporating modern twists into your ham dinner, think about texture contrasts and temperatures. If your ham is served hot and savory, consider a cool and crisp side to provide balance and contrast. On the other hand, if you have a chilled ham, a warm and hearty side can create a harmonious balance.
International Flavors
Spanish Patatas Bravas: A Fiery Delight
Embark on a culinary journey to Spain with patatas bravas. This fiery and flavorful Spanish side dish consists of crispy potato cubes served with a spicy tomato-based sauce. The potatoes are typically crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, creating a satisfying textural experience. The spicy tomato sauce, often made with paprika, garlic, and red pepper flakes, adds a delightful kick of heat that contrasts beautifully with the savory ham. It's a dish that's both comforting and exciting.
German Sauerkraut: Tangy and Fermented
In Germany, sauerkraut is a beloved accompaniment to ham. This tangy and fermented cabbage dish provides a unique contrast to the saltiness and richness of ham. Sauerkraut's natural acidity cuts through the meat's richness, creating a harmonious balance that's hard to resist. The tangy, slightly sour flavor of sauerkraut complements ham in a way that's both traditional and delicious. It's a pairing that celebrates the hearty flavors of German cuisine.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A Taste of the Islands
Transport your taste buds to the Hawaiian islands with Hawaiian macaroni salad. Creamy and slightly sweet, this side dish features elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, grated carrots, and pineapple tidbits. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures that adds a touch of the tropics to your ham feast. The creaminess of the salad provides a counterpoint to the saltiness of the ham, creating a satisfying and flavorful contrast.
Pairing Tip: Explore Global Flavors
When embracing international flavors with your ham dinner, take the opportunity to explore the cuisines of the world. Different cultures offer unique side dishes that can add excitement and variety to your meal. Consider your own culinary preferences and those of your guests as you select international sides to accompany your ham.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto: Creamy and Comforting
For guests with dietary restrictions, a roasted butternut squash risotto can steal the show. Creamy Arborio rice is cooked to perfection with roasted butternut squash, creating a luscious and velvety dish. The natural sweetness and earthiness of the squash infuse the risotto with depth of flavor. It's a comforting and satisfying option that pairs wonderfully with ham. The creaminess of the risotto complements the meat's texture, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Vegan Creamed Spinach: Dairy-Free Delight
Vegans can indulge in the deliciousness of creamed spinach without dairy. This vegan creamed spinach recipe replaces heavy cream with a creamy cashew sauce and incorporates nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The result is a creamy, savory side dish that complements ham beautifully. The nutty richness of the cashews pairs harmoniously with the savory notes of the meat, creating a vegan-friendly pairing that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: Filling and Flavorful
Mushroom lovers will appreciate stuffed portobello mushrooms as a side dish for ham. These large mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and sometimes cheese (or vegan cheese for a vegan option). Roasted until tender, these stuffed mushrooms offer a satisfying and earthy companion to ham. The umami-rich flavor of the mushrooms pairs exceptionally well with the savory and smoky notes of the meat.
Pairing Tip: Customize to Dietary Preferences
When catering to dietary preferences such as vegetarian or vegan, it's essential to customize your side dishes to ensure they align with your guests' needs. Be mindful of ingredient substitutions and cooking methods to create dishes that everyone can enjoy.
Pairing Tips
To create the perfect pairing of side dishes for your ham dinner, consider the following tips:
Ham Flavor Profile: Match the side dish to the flavor profile of your ham. For example, if your ham is glazed with honey or maple syrup, complement it with sides that embrace sweetness. If your ham is smoky or savory, opt for sides that provide contrast and balance.
Texture and Temperature: Think about texture contrasts and temperatures. If your ham is served hot and savory, consider a cool and crisp side to provide balance and contrast. Conversely, if you have a chilled ham, a warm and hearty side can create a harmonious balance.
Cultural Preferences: Consider your cultural or personal preferences. Explore sides from different cuisines to add variety and excitement to your meal. Embracing international flavors can lead to delightful discoveries and memorable dining experiences.
In conclusion, the beauty of pairing side dishes with ham lies in the endless possibilities. From traditional classics that evoke nostalgia to modern and international twists that bring innovation to your table, there's no shortage of options to explore. Even if you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are creative and satisfying vegetarian and vegan choices available.
The key to a memorable ham dinner is finding the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and temperatures. Don't be afraid to experiment and personalize your side dish selections to create a dining experience that's uniquely yours. With the right side dishes, you can elevate your ham dinner from ordinary to extraordinary, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
Recipes
Here are detailed recipes for some of the highlighted side dishes:
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, pouring some of the cream mixture between layers.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture over the top layer of potatoes. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired. Serve hot.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side until they have grill marks and are slightly caramelized. Remove and let cool, then chop into small pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 6 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it's mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, which should take about 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in the roasted butternut squash and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired and serve hot.