Ham dinners are a beloved tradition for many families, especially during holidays and special occasions. While the star of the show is undoubtedly the succulent ham itself, it’s the side dishes that can really elevate the meal and make it a memorable dining experience. If you’re looking to add some variety and excitement to your ham dinner, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore a range of delicious side dishes that perfectly complement a ham dinner.
Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Indulgent
One classic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with ham is scalloped potatoes. This rich and creamy dish is made by layering thinly sliced potatoes with a velvety cheese sauce before baking it to perfection. The combination of tender potatoes and gooey cheese adds a wonderful contrast to the savory ham, making every bite a burst of flavor.
To make scalloped potatoes, start by slicing your potatoes into thin rounds. Then, prepare a simple cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and your choice of grated cheese (cheddar or Gruyere work particularly well). Layer the sliced potatoes in a baking dish, pour the cheese sauce over them, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: A Sweet Twist
For those who prefer their side dishes on the sweeter side, honey-glazed carrots are an excellent choice. This simple yet delightful dish takes tender carrots and coats them in a sticky glaze made from honey, butter, and a touch of cinnamon or ginger. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the caramelized glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile that beautifully complements the saltiness of ham.
To prepare honey-glazed carrots, start by peeling and cutting your carrots into bite-sized pieces or sticks. In a skillet, melt butter and honey together until well combined. Add the carrots to the skillet and cook over medium heat until they are tender and the glaze has thickened slightly. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Green Bean Casserole: A Classic Favorite
No ham dinner would be complete without a classic green bean casserole. This timeless side dish combines crisp green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crunchy fried onions for a textural delight that perfectly balances the richness of ham. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms add depth to the dish, while the fried onions provide a satisfying crunch.
To make green bean casserole, combine blanched green beans with a homemade or store-bought mushroom sauce in a casserole dish. Top it off with a generous layer of fried onions and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The result is a crowd-pleasing side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Modern Twist
If you’re looking to add a modern twist to your ham dinner, roasted Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice. These tiny cabbage-like vegetables turn wonderfully crispy when roasted in high heat, creating a delightful texture contrast to the tender ham. Tossed with olive oil, salt, pepper, and perhaps some balsamic glaze or maple syrup for added sweetness, roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to impress even the most discerning taste buds.
To prepare roasted Brussels sprouts, trim off any tough outer leaves from the sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven until they are golden brown on the outside but still tender on the inside.
In conclusion, adding variety to your ham dinner can take it from ordinary to extraordinary. By incorporating side dishes like scalloped potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, green bean casserole, and roasted Brussels sprouts, you’ll create a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. So the next time you’re planning a ham dinner, don’t forget to include these exciting side dishes to elevate your dining experience.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
