What Side Dishes Go Well with Ham?
Ham, with its savory, often sweet, flavor profile, pairs exceptionally well with a variety of side dishes. Generally, sides that offer a balance of sweetness, acidity, and richness, such as classic scalloped potatoes and glazed carrots, provide a delightful complementary experience.
Understanding the Versatility of Ham
Ham is a classic centerpiece for holiday meals and Sunday suppers alike, thanks to its readily available nature and relatively straightforward preparation. Its cured and often smoked flavor lends itself to various culinary interpretations, from honey-glazed spirals to slow-cooked hocks. This inherent versatility is also what makes choosing the right side dishes crucial for creating a balanced and memorable meal. Choosing sides that complement the ham’s saltiness and potentially sweetness is key.
Balancing Flavors: The Key to Perfect Pairings
The golden rule when selecting side dishes for ham is to consider contrast and complementation. The ham is often rich and can be quite salty, so think about incorporating:
- Sweetness: Fruits, vegetables with natural sugars (like sweet potatoes), or even a touch of honey in a dressing.
- Acidity: This cuts through the richness. Think of vinegary slaws, tangy cranberry sauce, or lemon-dressed greens.
- Texture: Variety is important! Crunchy roasted vegetables, creamy potato dishes, and soft dinner rolls offer a well-rounded dining experience.
Classic Side Dish Champions
Several side dishes have proven themselves time and again as reliable and delicious accompaniments to ham. These staples offer a good starting point for building your meal:
- Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, scalloped potatoes are a classic for a reason.
- Green Bean Casserole: A Thanksgiving favorite that works equally well with ham.
- Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of the glaze pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy, essential for soaking up all the delicious juices.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and creamy option.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
While the classics are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to explore more adventurous pairings. Here are some ideas:
- Roasted Asparagus with Lemon: Offers a fresh and bright counterpoint to the ham.
- Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasting brings out their nutty flavor, balanced by the tangy glaze.
- Pineapple Salsa: A tropical twist that adds sweetness and acidity.
- Broccoli Salad with Bacon: A cool and crunchy salad that balances the richness of the ham.
- Cornbread Dressing: This classic can stand as its own hearty side, contrasting the ham’s texture and flavor.
Preparing Your Side Dish Game Plan
Here’s a simple table summarizing the flavor profiles and common ingredients to consider for ham side dishes:
| Flavor Profile | Common Ingredients | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet | Brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, fruits | Glazed Carrots, Honey-Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Pineapple Salsa |
| Acidic | Vinegar, lemon juice, cranberries | Cranberry Sauce, Coleslaw, Lemon-Roasted Asparagus |
| Rich & Creamy | Cheese, cream, butter, potatoes | Scalloped Potatoes, Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Mac and Cheese |
| Savory & Earthy | Herbs, spices, roasted root vegetables | Roasted Root Vegetables, Green Bean Casserole, Cornbread Stuffing |
| Fresh & Crunchy | Raw vegetables, crisp greens, toasted nuts | Broccoli Salad, Green Salad with Vinaigrette, Apple Salad |
Considering Dietary Needs
When planning your menu, remember to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests. It’s always a thoughtful gesture to offer options for those with allergies, intolerances, or specific diets:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Offer plant-based alternatives to traditional sides like vegan scalloped potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that all sauces and gravies are thickened with gluten-free alternatives. Opt for mashed potatoes, rice dishes, or naturally gluten-free vegetables.
- Low-Carb: Focus on vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. Use sugar-free sweeteners in glazes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single best side dish to serve with ham?
While personal preference plays a big role, scalloped potatoes are often considered the top choice. Their creamy richness complements the ham’s saltiness beautifully.
Can I serve seafood with ham?
Generally, seafood isn’t a common pairing for ham, as the flavors can clash. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider a light seafood dish with citrus notes to cut through the ham’s richness.
What kind of salad goes well with ham?
A salad with a vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice. The acidity cuts through the richness of the ham. Consider a salad with cranberries, apples, or toasted nuts for added flavor and texture.
Is cranberry sauce a good pairing for ham?
Absolutely! Cranberry sauce is a classic pairing due to its tartness and sweetness. The acidity balances the saltiness of the ham perfectly.
What are some good vegetable side dishes for ham?
Consider vegetables like glazed carrots, roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Look for options that are either sweet or slightly acidic to complement the ham’s flavor.
Should I make the side dishes ahead of time?
Many side dishes can be prepared in advance to save time on the day of your meal. Scalloped potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole are all great candidates for make-ahead cooking.
How can I make my side dishes healthier?
Use less butter and cream in your potato dishes. Opt for roasted vegetables instead of fried. Incorporate fresh herbs for flavor instead of relying solely on salt.
What kind of bread should I serve with ham?
Soft dinner rolls are a classic choice. They are perfect for soaking up the juices from the ham. Alternatively, cornbread offers a slightly sweeter and coarser texture that complements the ham well.
Can I serve rice with ham?
Yes, rice can be a good option, especially if you’re looking for a simple and filling side. Consider a rice pilaf or a wild rice blend for added flavor and texture.
What is the best way to reheat side dishes?
The best method depends on the dish. Potatoes are best reheated in the oven to prevent them from becoming soggy. Vegetables can be microwaved or sauteed.
What if I don’t like sweet side dishes?
If you prefer less sweetness, focus on savory options like roasted vegetables, green bean casserole, or a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. Avoid adding extra sugar to your dishes.
How do I make the whole meal feel cohesive?
Consider using similar ingredients in multiple dishes. For example, if you’re using honey in the ham glaze, incorporate it into the dressing for your salad. This creates a sense of harmony and balance throughout the meal.