What are the best side dishes to serve with ham?

The Perfect Partner: Choosing Stellar Sides for Your Ham Dinner

Ham, a succulent and savory centerpiece, deserves side dishes that complement its richness without stealing the show. Whether you're planning a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, here's a guide to crafting a delicious and well-rounded ham menu, with options for every taste and dietary preference.

Classic Combos:

Potato Power: Mashed potatoes are a timeless favorite, offering creamy comfort next to the salty ham. For a lighter twist, try roasted smashed potatoes with a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs. Scalloped potatoes or a decadent potato gratin add a touch of elegance.
Veggie Delights: Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful option. Choose seasonal favorites like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots, and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices for a simple yet satisfying side. For a touch of sweetness, consider glazed carrots or candied sweet potatoes.

Seasonal Specialties:

Spring Sensations: Lighter options like asparagus with hollandaise sauce or a vibrant pea salad with fresh mint complement the ham beautifully during springtime. A creamy broccoli slaw or a side of deviled eggs also add a refreshing touch.
Summer Sides: Embrace the season with grilled corn on the cob, a refreshing watermelon salad, or creamy coleslaw. Macaroni salad, a classic picnic staple, also works well with ham, especially for potlucks and barbecues.
Autumnal Accents: As the weather cools, consider heartier sides like butternut squash gratin or a creamy sweet potato casserole. Sautéed green beans with shallots and almonds offer a classic and comforting option.
Winter Warmers: During the colder months, indulge in decadent sides like cheesy scalloped potatoes, creamy Brussels sprouts casserole, or mac and cheese. A side of dinner rolls or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices.

Beyond the Expected:

Fruity Flair: A touch of sweetness can be a delightful contrast to the savory ham. Consider a side of pineapple chunks glazed with brown sugar or a simple fruit salad with seasonal berries.
Global Inspirations: Take your ham dinner on a world tour with flavorful sides like honey-glazed carrots with a Moroccan twist or a refreshing fennel and orange salad with a Mediterranean flair. For a touch of smokiness, try Southern-style collard greens braised with bacon.

Don't Forget the Bread Basket:

No ham dinner is complete without a selection of breads. Fluffy dinner rolls, crusty French bread, or buttery croissants are all excellent choices.

Dietary Considerations:

Vegetarian Options: For vegetarian guests, consider a side of roasted vegetables with a flavorful pesto or a quinoa salad with fresh herbs and roasted vegetables.
Lighter Sides: Opt for roasted vegetables, a simple salad with a light vinaigrette, or mashed cauliflower for a lighter take on classic sides.

The Final Touches:

Remember to consider the overall balance of your menu when choosing sides. If the ham is heavily glazed, opt for lighter sides. For a casual meal, keep things simple with a few well-chosen offerings. The key is to create a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your guests wanting more.

With these tips and recipe ideas, you're sure to create a delicious and memorable ham dinner that will please everyone at the table.

Source : Google Gemini

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