Ham has that natural sweetness, right? It practically begs for a side that brings a little heat or acid to cut through the richness. Enter the vegetable soulmate: roasted pineapple or peaches. Yes, really. Grill some pineapple rings until they have those dark, caramelized marks, and you’ve created a tropical flavor bomb. Or, for a fall twist, sauté sliced apples with a touch of butter and cinnamon. It’s like autumn on a plate.
I’m also a huge fan of a bright, acidic slaw. Forget the sad, mayonnaise-drenched stuff from a deli. I’m talking about a tangy apple-cabbage slaw with a good splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes. That sharpness cuts through the ham’s fattiness like a tiny, zesty knife. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a palate cleanser that makes you want another bite of steak.
Greens That Don’t Quit
Let’s talk about vegetables, because a ham steak isn’t a threesome; it’s a party. Green beans are the classic, but please, for the love of all things tasty, don’t just steam them into oblivion. Saute them in the same skillet after the ham is done, with a knob of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice. That little bit of fond (the brown bits) from the pan sticks to them, creating a flavor you can’t buy in a bottle.
What To Serve With Ham Steak: 15 Tasty Side Dishes - Corrie Cooks
Another unsung hero? Roasted Brussels sprouts. I know, I know—half the world claims to hate them. But that’s only because they’ve never had them roasted at a high heat until the leaves are crispy and the insides are tender. Toss them with a little balsamic glaze or maple syrup before they go into the oven. The bitterness of the sprouts plays beautifully off the ham’s sweetness. Trust me, it’s a conversion experience.
And don’t forget creamed spinach. It’s the big, cozy blanket of the side dish world. It’s rich, indulgent, and a little bit retro, which makes it ridiculously satisfying. Make it from scratch with fresh spinach, heavy cream, and a whisper of nutmeg. Your taste buds will thank you, even if your arteries give you a side-eye.