Ham dinners are a delightful celebration of flavor and tradition, often serving as the centerpiece for holidays and special occasions. With their savory, slightly sweet, and smoky profile, ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, appetizers, and desserts that can elevate your meal.
This article explores what goes well with ham dinner, offering a range of ideas for side dishes, beverages, and even dessert options to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you are planning a festive gathering or a weeknight dinner, these suggestions will guide you in crafting the perfect ham dinner.
What Goes Good with Ham Dinner?
Ham dinner pairs well with various sides, beverages, and desserts that enhance its flavors. Think about vibrant vegetables, flavorful grains, tangy fruits, and comforting desserts to balance the salty and sweet aspects of the ham. Here are multiple ideas that will complement your ham dinner beautifully.
Classic Side Dishes for Ham Dinner
Side dishes can significantly alter the overall taste and appeal of your ham dinner. Classic options often include both cold and warm choices, each adding a different texture and flavor profile.
1. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
This dish features layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich cream sauce, often topped with cheese. The creaminess of scalloped potatoes pairs excellently with the savory notes of ham.
- Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Green Bean Casserole
This classic dish, typically made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, contributes both a crunch and a creamy texture that complements ham perfectly.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cans of green beans, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
3. Honey Glazed Carrots
These tender carrots, glossy with honey and butter, provide a sweet contrast to the salty flavor of ham while adding vibrant color to your plate.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
4. Macaroni and Cheese
Rich and creamy macaroni and cheese is a comforting side that harmonizes beautifully with the texture and flavor of ham.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
5. Coleslaw
A crunchy and tangy coleslaw can be a refreshing counterpart to the richness of ham. The acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the fat, balancing the meal.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetarian Options
For those seeking vegetarian sides that pair well with ham, consider dishes that provide a mix of flavor, texture, and nutrition.
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the meal’s overall flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., Brussels sprouts, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad made with diced vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to the ham while providing protein and fiber.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Regional Favorites to Enhance Your Ham Dinner
Different regions have signature dishes that enhance the experience of ham dinners, making your gathering feel uniquely special.
1. Southern-Style Cornbread
This slightly sweet, fluffy bread is a hallmark of Southern cooking. Its texture and flavor pair beautifully with ham.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
2. Baked Beans
Baked beans, typically flavored with brown sugar and mustard, can be comforting and savory. Their sweetness complements the saltiness of ham effectively.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cans baked beans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1/4 cup ketchup
3. Potato Salad
This cold, creamy salad is a popular choice at cookouts and pairs excellently with ham, offering a delicious contrast in temperatures and textures.
- Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, boiled and diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salads and Garnishes
Adding fresh salads and garnishes adds color and brightness to your ham dinner plate.
1. Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad with seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites of rich ham.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vinaigrette dressing
2. Fruit Salad
A fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus can add a refreshing sweetness that lightens the overall meal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed seasonal fruits
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Delicious Beverages to Pair with Ham Dinner
The right beverage can enhance the dining experience. Here are a few suggestions to complement the flavors of ham.
1. White Wine
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can brighten the meal. The acidity in these wines works well against ham’s saltiness.
2. Sweet Tea
For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing glass of Southern-style sweet tea can add a delightful, sweet contrast to your meal.
3. Apple Cider
Warm or cold apple cider can be a delicious complement, echoing ham’s sweetness and creating a comforting atmosphere.
Decadent Dessert Ideas after Ham Dinner
To complete your ham dinner, consider the following dessert options, which balance sweetness and texture.
1. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This classic cake includes caramelized pineapple and a buttery cake base that matches nicely with the flavors of ham.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can sliced pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
2. Berry Crisp
A warm berry crisp topped with a crumbly oat topping provides a delightful contrast of warm and cold when served with ice cream.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
3. Chocolate Mousse
This decadent dessert, rich and airy, offers a contrasting flavor and texture to balance ham’s flavors beautifully.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Tips for Meal Planning with Ham Dinner
To help streamline your ham dinner experience, consider these meal planning tips:
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and layer casseroles the day before to save time.
- Ingredient Overlap: Choose side dishes that use similar ingredients to simplify shopping and reduce waste.
- Cook in Batches: If you have multiple dishes, stagger the cooking times to ensure everything is served warm and fresh.
Storing Leftovers from Ham Dinner
Leftovers from ham dinner can be delicious the next day, and knowing how to store them properly will maintain their quality.
- Cool quickly: Allow food to come to room temperature before storing.
- Store in Airtight Containers: Keep leftovers in airtight containers to prevent drying out.
- Reheat Safely: Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Crafting a memorable ham dinner involves balancing flavors, textures, and colors to create an experience that delights the senses. By incorporating a variety of side dishes, beverages, and desserts, you can create a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Explore more cooking ideas, recipes, and tips to enhance your meals. Check out our Ham Salad Recipe and learn how to make a delicious Spiral Ham that perfectly complements your next gathering!