What Goes Well With a Ham Dinner? The Perfect Complementary Dishes
A truly memorable ham dinner involves a thoughtful selection of side dishes that harmonize with the salty and savory profile of the ham, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The ideal pairings often include sweet, tangy, or slightly bitter elements to enhance the overall dining experience.
The Timeless Appeal of a Ham Dinner
Ham, whether it’s a spiral-cut honey-baked masterpiece or a traditionally smoked cut, is a centerpiece dish. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a beloved choice for holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions. But a great ham needs equally impressive supporting players to truly shine. The right side dishes can elevate a simple ham dinner into a culinary experience that will leave your guests wanting more.
Understanding the Ham’s Flavor Profile
Before planning your menu, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of your ham. Is it honey-glazed, smoked, or cured? Each preparation imparts a unique flavor profile that dictates the best complementary sides. Generally, ham is salty, savory, and often slightly sweet. Sides should aim to balance these qualities.
Sweet Companions: Fruits and Sweet Vegetables
The sweetness of ham pairs exceptionally well with fruits and sweet vegetables. These options add a burst of freshness and counteract the saltiness.
- Pineapple: Glazed pineapple slices are a classic pairing.
- Applesauce: Offers a comforting and slightly tart sweetness.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness is enhanced by roasting.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness of the ham.
- Glazed Carrots: A sweet and visually appealing option.
Tangy and Bright: Acidity for Balance
Acidity is key to cutting through the richness of ham and cleansing the palate. Sides with a tangy element provide a welcome contrast.
- Pickled Vegetables: A vibrant and flavorful addition.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing.
- Deviled Eggs: A classic appetizer that complements the meal.
- Asparagus with Lemon: Simple and elegant, with a bright citrus flavor.
- Broccoli Salad: Offers crunch and a refreshing bite.
Starchy Staples: Comfort and Satisfaction
Starchy sides provide a comforting base and absorb the delicious ham juices and sauces.
- Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy, a crowd-pleaser.
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice, customizable with herbs and garlic.
- Au Gratin Potatoes: Similar to scalloped, but often richer.
- Stuffing or Dressing: A savory and herbaceous option.
- Dinner Rolls: Essential for sopping up the delicious sauces.
Don’t Forget the Greens: Healthy and Refreshing
Adding green vegetables provides a healthy and refreshing element to the meal.
- Green Bean Casserole: A holiday staple.
- Sautéed Spinach: Simple and nutritious.
- Steamed Broccoli: A quick and easy option.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or sautéed, they offer a nutty flavor.
- Arugula Salad: Adds a peppery bite.
Presentation Matters
The presentation of your side dishes is just as important as their taste. Arrange them artfully on the table to create a visually appealing spread. Consider using serving dishes that complement the overall theme of your meal.
Ham Dinner Side Dish Ideas
Here’s a table summarizing popular pairings:
| Category | Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet | Glazed Pineapple | Sweet, tangy | Balances saltiness, adds tropical flavor |
| Sweet | Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Sweet, earthy | Complements savory ham, adds warmth |
| Tangy | Cranberry Sauce | Tart, sweet | Cuts through richness, adds festive touch |
| Tangy | Asparagus with Lemon | Bright, acidic | Cleanses palate, adds freshness |
| Starchy | Scalloped Potatoes | Creamy, cheesy | Comforting, absorbs ham juices |
| Starchy | Stuffing | Savory, herbaceous | Adds texture and flavor contrast |
| Green Vegetables | Green Bean Casserole | Creamy, savory | Classic holiday side, adds vegetable component |
| Green Vegetables | Brussels Sprouts (Roasted) | Nutty, slightly bitter | Adds complexity and earthy notes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best way to balance the saltiness of the ham?
The best way to balance the saltiness of the ham is to include sweet and acidic side dishes. Pineapple glaze, cranberry sauce, and even a simple lemon vinaigrette can help cut through the salt and create a more harmonious flavor profile.
Should I prepare the sides before or after the ham?
Ideally, prepare your side dishes while the ham is baking or warming. This ensures that everything is ready to serve at the same time. Some sides, like cranberry sauce or coleslaw, can even be made a day in advance.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish for a ham dinner?
A roasted vegetable medley is an excellent vegetarian option. Include colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions, and roast them with herbs and olive oil. This adds flavor and visual appeal to the meal.
Can I use canned fruit for side dishes?
Yes, you can use canned fruit, but fresh fruit is generally preferred for its superior flavor and texture. If using canned fruit, be sure to drain it well and consider adding a touch of lemon juice or fresh herbs to brighten the flavor.
What’s a good make-ahead side dish for a ham dinner?
Scalloped potatoes are a great make-ahead option. You can assemble them a day in advance and bake them before serving. This frees up time on the day of the dinner and allows the flavors to meld together.
What dessert pairs well with ham?
A light and refreshing dessert is a perfect ending to a ham dinner. Consider a fruit tart, a lemon bar, or a simple bowl of berries with whipped cream. Avoid heavy, rich desserts that might overwhelm the palate.
How can I incorporate leftovers from the ham dinner?
Leftover ham can be used in a variety of ways. Try making ham and cheese sandwiches, quiche, or a creamy ham and potato soup. Get creative and repurpose your leftovers to minimize waste and enjoy the flavors of the ham dinner again.
Is it better to buy a pre-cooked ham or cook one from scratch?
This depends on your time and skill level. Pre-cooked hams are convenient and require minimal preparation, but cooking a ham from scratch allows for more control over the flavor and texture.
What kind of glaze goes best with ham?
A honey-mustard glaze is a classic choice that complements the savory flavor of ham. Other popular options include brown sugar glaze, maple glaze, and pineapple glaze. Choose a glaze that suits your personal preferences.
What is a good wine pairing for ham?
A slightly sweet white wine, such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer, pairs well with ham. The sweetness of the wine complements the saltiness of the ham, while the acidity cuts through the richness.
How do I prevent my ham from drying out during cooking?
To prevent your ham from drying out, cover it with foil during the initial stages of cooking. Basting it with pan juices or a glaze every 30 minutes also helps keep it moist.
What’s a quick and easy side dish if I’m short on time?
Steamed asparagus with lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a quick and easy side dish. It only takes a few minutes to prepare and adds a fresh, healthy element to the meal. It’s a great last-minute option.