Christmas ham is a cornerstone of many holiday celebrations, a centerpiece that embodies warmth, tradition, and abundance. But even the most perfectly glazed ham needs a supporting cast to create a truly memorable Christmas dinner. So, what should you serve alongside this festive marvel? This comprehensive guide explores the delicious world of Christmas ham accompaniments, from classic sides to creative culinary twists, ensuring your holiday meal is a resounding success.
The Timeless Tradition: Classic Sides for Christmas Ham
Some pairings are simply meant to be, and when it comes to Christmas ham, certain sides have earned their place as holiday staples. These classic accompaniments offer a balance of flavors and textures that complement the richness of the ham, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
Potatoes: A Starchy Staple
Potatoes are a versatile and beloved side dish, and they offer endless possibilities for your Christmas ham feast. Whether mashed, roasted, or scalloped, potatoes provide a comforting counterpoint to the savory ham.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Few things are more comforting than a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery texture and mild flavor provide a perfect backdrop for the ham’s richness. Consider adding roasted garlic, herbs, or a touch of horseradish for an extra layer of flavor.
Roasted Potatoes with Herbs
For a more rustic option, roasted potatoes offer a delightful crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Toss them with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic for an aromatic and flavorful side dish. The caramelized edges add a satisfying crunch that complements the tender ham.
Scalloped Potatoes: A Decadent Delight
Scalloped potatoes, with their creamy cheese sauce and thinly sliced potatoes, are a decadent treat that’s perfect for a special occasion. The rich and cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with the salty ham, creating a truly indulgent combination.
Vegetables: Adding Freshness and Balance
Vegetables are essential for adding color, texture, and nutritional value to your Christmas meal. Choose vegetables that offer a balance of flavors and textures to complement the richness of the ham.
Green Bean Casserole: A Holiday Favorite
While often debated, green bean casserole remains a popular holiday side dish for many. The creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions provide a familiar and comforting flavor that many associate with Christmas.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. When roasted properly, they develop a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that’s enhanced by a balsamic glaze. The slightly bitter notes of the Brussels sprouts provide a welcome contrast to the savory ham.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet and Savory
Glazed carrots offer a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your Christmas plate. The sweet glaze, often made with butter, brown sugar, and honey, complements the savory ham beautifully.
Bread and Rolls: Sopping Up the Flavors
Bread and rolls are essential for mopping up the delicious sauces and juices from your Christmas ham and side dishes. Choose a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
Dinner Rolls: A Simple Classic
Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a timeless accompaniment to any holiday meal. They’re perfect for soaking up the gravy or enjoying alongside a slice of ham.
Cranberry Walnut Bread: A Festive Twist
For a more festive option, consider serving cranberry walnut bread. The sweet and tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts add a delightful flavor and texture to your Christmas meal.
Beyond the Basics: Creative and Contemporary Sides
While classic sides are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to experiment with more creative and contemporary options. These dishes can add a unique and exciting twist to your Christmas ham feast.
Salads: Adding Freshness and Lightness
A refreshing salad can provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the ham and other side dishes. Choose a salad with a variety of textures and flavors to keep things interesting.
Winter Salad with Pomegranate and Citrus
A winter salad with pomegranate seeds, citrus fruits, and mixed greens is a refreshing and vibrant option. The sweet and tart flavors of the fruit complement the savory ham, while the mixed greens add a touch of bitterness.
Kale Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Pecans
A kale salad with roasted butternut squash, pecans, and a maple vinaigrette is a hearty and flavorful option. The slightly bitter kale is balanced by the sweetness of the butternut squash and the crunch of the pecans.
Stuffing and Dressing: A Hearty Addition
Stuffing or dressing is a classic holiday side dish that adds a hearty and flavorful element to your Christmas meal. Choose a stuffing recipe that complements the flavors of the ham.
Sausage and Apple Stuffing
Sausage and apple stuffing is a flavorful and savory option that pairs well with ham. The sausage adds a meaty richness, while the apple provides a touch of sweetness.
Cornbread Dressing with Cranberries
Cornbread dressing with cranberries is a Southern-inspired side dish that’s both savory and sweet. The cornbread adds a slightly crumbly texture, while the cranberries provide a tart and festive flavor.
Sauces and Glazes: Enhancing the Flavor of the Ham
The sauce or glaze you choose for your Christmas ham can significantly impact the overall flavor of the meal. Consider different flavor profiles and choose a sauce that complements the other side dishes.
Honey Mustard Glaze
A honey mustard glaze is a classic choice for Christmas ham. The sweetness of the honey is balanced by the tanginess of the mustard, creating a flavorful and slightly sticky glaze.
Cherry Glaze
A cherry glaze adds a touch of sweetness and festive color to your Christmas ham. The sweet and tart cherries complement the savory ham beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Planning Your Menu
Planning your Christmas menu can be overwhelming, but with a little forethought, you can create a delicious and memorable meal. Consider the number of guests you’re expecting, their dietary restrictions, and your own personal preferences.
Estimating Quantities
When planning your menu, it’s important to estimate the quantities of food you’ll need. A good rule of thumb is to allow about ½ pound of ham per person, plus a generous portion of side dishes.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Aim for a balance of flavors and textures in your Christmas meal. Include dishes that are sweet, savory, tart, and creamy. Also, consider the textures of the dishes, ensuring there’s a variety of soft, crunchy, and smooth elements.
Preparing in Advance
To reduce stress on Christmas Day, prepare as much of your meal in advance as possible. Many side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, and stuffing, can be made a day or two ahead of time.
Table Presentation
Presentation is key when it comes to creating a festive Christmas meal. Use your best dishes, linens, and silverware. Add some festive decorations, such as candles, flowers, and ornaments, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Pairing Wine with Christmas Ham
The right wine can elevate your Christmas ham dinner to a whole new level. Consider the flavors of your ham and side dishes when choosing a wine pairing.
Riesling: A Versatile Choice
Riesling is a versatile white wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, including ham. Its slightly sweet and acidic flavor complements the savory ham and cuts through the richness of the side dishes.
Pinot Noir: A Light-Bodied Red
Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine that’s a good choice for those who prefer red wine. Its fruity and earthy notes complement the ham without overpowering it.
Rosé: A Festive Option
Rosé is a festive and refreshing option that pairs well with Christmas ham. Its fruity and slightly sweet flavor complements the ham and side dishes.
The Leftover Lunch: Creative Ways to Use Leftover Ham
Leftover ham is a gift that keeps on giving. There are endless possibilities for using leftover ham, from sandwiches and salads to soups and casseroles.
Ham Sandwiches: A Classic Choice
Ham sandwiches are a classic way to use leftover ham. Add cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a simple and satisfying lunch.
Ham Salad: A Versatile Spread
Ham salad is a versatile spread that can be used on sandwiches, crackers, or as a topping for salads. Mix diced ham with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings for a flavorful and easy-to-make spread.
Ham and Bean Soup: A Comforting Meal
Ham and bean soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day. Add leftover ham to a pot of beans, vegetables, and broth for a delicious and filling soup.
Christmas ham is more than just a centerpiece; it’s an opportunity to create a memorable culinary experience with friends and family. By carefully selecting your side dishes, sauces, and wine pairings, you can elevate your Christmas ham feast to new heights. Whether you stick with classic favorites or experiment with more creative options, the key is to choose dishes that complement the flavors of the ham and create a balanced and satisfying meal. Remember to plan ahead, prepare as much as possible in advance, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious and festive Christmas feast. Happy Holidays!
What are some classic side dishes that pair well with Christmas ham?
Classic side dishes that complement Christmas ham beautifully include scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or carrots), and dinner rolls. These options offer a variety of textures and flavors that balance the richness of the ham and provide a complete and satisfying meal. Consider adding a cranberry sauce or relish for a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the savory ham.
Additionally, mashed potatoes (sweet or regular) are a comforting and popular choice, as is a simple salad with a light vinaigrette to offer some freshness. Don’t forget about stuffing or dressing, which adds heartiness and can be customized with various ingredients like herbs, fruits, and nuts to match your personal preferences and create a truly festive spread.
What are some more unique or modern side dish options to serve with Christmas ham?
For a more contemporary Christmas ham meal, consider side dishes like roasted root vegetables with balsamic glaze, quinoa salad with dried cranberries and pecans, or a creamy corn casserole with jalapenos. These options offer a twist on traditional flavors and can add some excitement to your holiday feast. Experimenting with different herbs, spices, and cooking methods can also elevate your side dishes.
Another idea is to serve a citrus salad with avocado and pomegranate seeds for a refreshing contrast to the ham’s richness. You could also offer sweet potato fries with a spicy aioli dip for a crowd-pleasing alternative to mashed potatoes. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and create a menu that reflects your personal style and culinary creativity.
What kind of sauces or glazes complement Christmas ham the best?
A classic brown sugar and mustard glaze is a popular choice for Christmas ham, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the ham’s savory notes. Honey glazes, maple glazes, or even fruit-based glazes like apricot or pineapple can also be delicious options, adding a touch of sweetness and caramelization to the ham’s exterior. These sweet elements balance the saltiness of the ham perfectly.
For a bolder flavor profile, consider a bourbon glaze or a spicy cherry sauce. These glazes add depth and complexity to the ham, creating a more sophisticated and memorable taste. Remember to brush the glaze onto the ham during the final stages of cooking to prevent burning and achieve a beautiful, glossy finish. A simple pan sauce made from the ham drippings is another easy and flavorful option.
What types of desserts pair well with a Christmas ham dinner?
Desserts that pair well with a Christmas ham dinner often involve seasonal fruits, spices, and comforting flavors. Apple pie, pumpkin pie, and pecan pie are all classic choices that complement the savory ham and offer a warm, festive feeling. These traditional desserts provide a sweet and satisfying ending to the meal.
Consider also offering lighter options like a cranberry cheesecake or a pear tart for a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich meal. Gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or chocolate truffles can also be served as smaller, individual treats to satisfy sweet cravings without being overly heavy. A fruit platter with winter fruits like oranges, pomegranates, and grapes can also be a healthy and beautiful addition.
What are some beverage pairing suggestions for a Christmas ham dinner?
For a Christmas ham dinner, consider pairing it with wines like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or Pinot Noir. These wines have enough acidity and fruitiness to complement the sweetness and saltiness of the ham. A sparkling wine or rosé can also be a festive and refreshing choice. The goal is to find a wine that enhances the flavors of the ham without overpowering it.
Non-alcoholic options include sparkling cider, cranberry juice, or a homemade spiced apple cider. These beverages offer a festive touch and complement the flavors of the meal. Remember to also have plenty of water available to keep everyone hydrated throughout the celebration. Consider a festive punch with cranberry, orange, and ginger ale for a refreshing and celebratory beverage.
How can I prepare side dishes in advance to save time on Christmas Day?
Many side dishes for Christmas ham can be prepared in advance to save time and reduce stress on Christmas Day. Casseroles like scalloped potatoes or green bean casserole can be assembled a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator, ready to be baked. Roasted vegetables can also be prepped and chopped, ready to be tossed with oil and seasonings before roasting.
Consider making cranberry sauce or relish several days in advance, as the flavors will meld and improve over time. Mashed potatoes can also be made ahead and reheated gently with a bit of milk or cream. By prepping and preparing components of your meal in advance, you can spend less time in the kitchen on Christmas Day and more time enjoying the holiday with your loved ones.
What are some vegetarian or vegan side dish options for those who don’t eat meat at a Christmas ham dinner?
For vegetarians and vegans at a Christmas ham dinner, offering a variety of plant-based side dishes is essential. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes, are always a crowd-pleaser. A hearty grain salad with quinoa or farro, mixed with roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, and nuts, provides a substantial and flavorful option.
Consider a creamy vegan mushroom stroganoff or a lentil shepherd’s pie as a main course alternative. A butternut squash risotto or a vegan mac and cheese can also be comforting and satisfying choices. Be sure to label all dishes clearly so guests can easily identify vegetarian and vegan options. A hearty and flavorful stuffing made without meat is another great option.