Introduction: The Perfect Pairing for Ham
Ham is a delicious and versatile meat that can be prepared in many different ways. Whether you’re serving a holiday dinner or a casual meal, the right side dishes can make all the difference. From classic comfort foods to light and fresh salads, there are countless options for pairing with ham.
When choosing side dishes for ham, it’s important to consider the flavors and textures of both the meat and the sides. Ham is often salty and rich, so pairing it with something fresh or light can help balance out the meal. On the other hand, creamy or savory sides can complement the ham’s flavor and add an extra layer of indulgence.
Classic Sides: Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans
For a classic pairing that never goes out of style, try serving mashed potatoes and green beans with your ham. The creamy potatoes and crisp-tender green beans are the perfect complement to the salty and savory flavor of the ham. You can keep it simple with plain mashed potatoes and steamed green beans, or add some flavor with garlic, herbs, or cheese.
Southern Comfort: Mac and Cheese and Collard Greens
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, try serving ham with mac and cheese and collard greens. This Southern-inspired combination is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. The creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is a perfect match for the rich and salty ham, while the tender and flavorful collard greens add a touch of freshness and balance to the meal.
Sweet and Savory: Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
For a sweet and savory twist on traditional side dishes, try serving roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with your ham. The sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the meal, while the Brussels sprouts provide a slightly bitter and nutty flavor that complements the ham’s salty and savory taste. Roast both veggies in the oven with a little olive oil and seasoning for an easy and delicious side dish.
Light and Fresh: Salad and Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a lighter and fresher meal, try serving ham with a fresh salad and grilled vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can help balance out the rich and salty flavor of the ham, while grilled veggies like asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers add a delicious and healthy touch of flavor and color to the meal.
Mediterranean Flavors: Couscous and Roasted Tomatoes
For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, try serving ham with couscous and roasted tomatoes. The fluffy and flavorful couscous is a perfect match for the salty and savory ham, while the juicy and sweet roasted tomatoes add a delicious and fresh flavor to the meal. You can also add some herbs, spices, or feta cheese to the couscous for an extra burst of flavor.
Creamy and Cheesy: Scalloped Potatoes and Creamed Corn
For a truly indulgent meal, try serving ham with scalloped potatoes and creamed corn. The rich and creamy potatoes are a perfect match for the savory and salty ham, while the sweet and creamy creamed corn adds a touch of sweetness and balance to the meal. This pairing is sure to impress even the most discerning guests.
Spicy and Bold: Jalapeno Cornbread and Spicy Collard Greens
If you’re looking for a bold and spicy twist on your ham meal, try serving jalapeno cornbread and spicy collard greens. The slightly sweet and spicy cornbread is a perfect match for the salty and savory ham, while the spicy and flavorful collard greens add a touch of heat and freshness to the meal. This pairing is sure to wake up your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Unexpected Twists: Pineapple Casserole and Maple Glazed Carrots
For a unique and unexpected twist on your ham meal, try serving pineapple casserole and maple glazed carrots. The sweet and tangy pineapple casserole is a perfect match for the salty and savory ham, while the sweet and sticky maple glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness and balance to the meal. This pairing is sure to surprise and delight your guests.
Conclusion: Endless Possibilities for Ham Side Dishes
As you can see, there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing side dishes for ham. Whether you prefer classic comfort foods, fresh and light salads, or bold and spicy flavors, there is a side dish out there that will complement your ham perfectly. So get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to find your perfect pairing.
