Christmas ham is a centerpiece of many holiday feasts, and finding the perfect accompaniments can elevate the dining experience to new heights. Whether you’re serving a glazed ham, a honey-baked ham, or a smoked ham, there are numerous side dishes that pair perfectly with its rich and savory flavors. From classic favorites to creative twists, in this article, we will guide you through a variety of delicious side dishes that complement a Christmas ham and create a festive and satisfying meal.
1. Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a classic and indulgent side dish that pairs beautifully with a Christmas ham. Thinly slice potatoes and layer them in a baking dish with a creamy mixture of milk, heavy cream, butter, garlic, and cheese. Bake the dish until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling. The rich and creamy texture of scalloped potatoes complements the savory flavors of the ham, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a staple of holiday meals and a popular choice to accompany a Christmas ham. Blanch fresh green beans until crisp-tender, then toss them with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings. Top the beans with crispy fried onions and bake until heated through and golden on top. The creamy and flavorful casserole provides a delicious contrast to the ham, adding a pop of vibrant color to the plate.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a flavorful and nutritious side dish that complements the richness of a Christmas ham. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings such as garlic powder or balsamic vinegar. Roast them in the oven until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The natural nuttiness of the Brussels sprouts enhances the savory flavors of the ham, creating a well-balanced and satisfying combination.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and gooey side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Christmas ham feast. Mash cooked sweet potatoes and mix them with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top it with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar streusel. Bake until the top is golden and the filling is heated through. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and crunchy topping creates a delectable contrast to the savory ham.
5. Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a classic condiment that adds a bright and tangy element to your Christmas ham. Make your own cranberry sauce by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a touch of cinnamon until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. The tartness of the cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the ham, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. The vibrant color of the sauce also adds a festive touch to your holiday spread.
6. Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots provide a sweet and tender side dish that complements the savory flavors of a Christmas ham. Cook whole or sliced carrots in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and a splash of orange juice until the carrots are tender and caramelized. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs well with the ham and adds a burst of color to the plate. The glaze adds a touch of indulgence, making it a delightful addition to your holiday menu.
7. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a flavorful and textured side dish that adds a Southern twist to your Christmas ham feast. Prepare cornbread as directed, and crumble it into a bowl. Sauté onions, celery, and any desired seasonings in butter until softened. Mix the sautéed vegetables with the crumbled cornbread, and add chicken or vegetable broth to moisten the mixture. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake until golden and crispy on top. The combination of the sweet cornbread and savory vegetables adds depth and texture to the meal, creating a satisfying accompaniment to the ham.
8. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables offer an earthy and hearty side dish that pairs well with the flavors of a Christmas ham. Toss a combination of peeled and cubed root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Roast them in the oven until they are golden and tender. The natural sweetness of the root vegetables complements the ham, while the roasting process intensifies their flavors, creating a delicious and satisfying addition to your holiday meal.
9. Spinach Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
A refreshing spinach salad with pomegranate seeds offers a fresh and vibrant side dish to balance the richness of a Christmas ham. Toss fresh spinach leaves with pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The combination of the crisp spinach, juicy pomegranate seeds, and tangy feta cheese provides a burst of freshness and texture. The salad adds a vibrant touch to the plate, creating a visually appealing and flavorful accompaniment to the ham.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side dishes to accompany a Christmas ham can elevate your holiday feast and create a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you opt for classic favorites like scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole or explore creative options like roasted Brussels sprouts and spinach salad, the key is to provide a variety of textures, flavors, and colors to complement the rich and savory ham. With these delicious side dishes, your Christmas meal will be a memorable and satisfying celebration. Enjoy the festive flavors and joyful moments with your loved ones!
