As Easter approaches, many of us look forward to a decadent holiday meal with family and friends. And what better way to celebrate than with a succulent ham as the centerpiece? But let’s not forget about the sides! Here are two amazing side dishes with ham for Easter that will take your feast to the next level.
Recipe 1: Ham and Potato Gratin
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, sliced thinly
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 lb. thinly sliced ham, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Layer potatoes in a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, Parmesan, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour cream mixture over potatoes.
- Top with ham.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Nutritional Information:
Servings: 6 | Calories: 366 | Fat: 24g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Protein: 12g
Cooking Time:
45 minutes
Equipment:
- 9×9 inch baking dish
- Saucepan
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Variations:
- Try using different types of potatoes, such as russet or red potatoes.
- Top with breadcrumbs or additional cheese for added texture.
- Substitute the ham for bacon or sausage for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions:
- Use half and half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Replace Parmesan cheese with cheddar or Gouda for a different taste.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips:
- For a creamier texture, use a mandoline to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
- Be sure to cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- While you can freeze it, the texture may become grainy upon reheating.
Recipe 2: Glazed Carrots with Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. baby carrots, trimmed and peeled
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 lb. thinly sliced ham, chopped
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add carrots and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and honey, stirring until sugar has dissolved.
- Stir in carrots and ham, tossing to coat.
- Cook for 5 minutes, until glazed and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Servings: 6 | Calories: 203 | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 5g
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with honey-glazed ham and roasted potatoes for a classic Easter feast.
Variations:
- Use regular carrots instead of baby carrots, sliced into rounds.
- Substitute the ham for bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy note.
Substitutions:
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
- Replace brown sugar with white sugar or coconut sugar for a different taste.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips:
- For a more caramelized glaze, let the carrots cook for a few extra minutes in the skillet.
- Use a mix of colorful carrots for a beautiful presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen carrots?
- Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- What else can I serve with glazed carrots?
- Roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or sautéed shrimp all pair well with this dish.
Final Thoughts
These two side dishes with ham for Easter are sure to impress your guests and take your holiday meal to the next level. Whether you prefer savory or sweet, there’s something for everyone. So why not give them a try and see for yourself?