The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Ham Steaks

Ham steaks are a versatile and flavorful main dish that can be paired with a wide range of side dishes. Choosing the right sides can enhance the overall dining experience, adding layers of flavor and texture that complement the savory and slightly sweet profile of ham steaks. Here are some excellent side dishes that work well with ham steaks, along with why they are a great choice.

Vegetable Sides

Vegetables provide a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich and savory ham steaks. They can add crisp crunch or a soft texture that enhances the overall meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy. The sweet and savory combination of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of ham steaks. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds and garlic for a crunchy and aromatic side dish. The nutty and savory flavors of this side dish complement the ham beautifully. Glazed Carrots: Cooked with honey or brown sugar, glazed carrots are a sweet and savory choice that pairs nicely with the salty and slightly sweet ham steaks.

Starches

Starchy sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread can provide comfort and balance to the meal, especially if the ham is creamy or rich.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes work well with ham steaks. They add a smooth and comforting texture that pairs nicely with the rich flavor of the ham. Scalloped Potatoes: Rich and cheesy scalloped potatoes can balance the saltiness of the ham, offering a creamy and comforting texture that is deliciously satisfying. Cornbread: A slightly sweet bread that complements the flavors of ham, cornbread can add a textural element to the meal. The sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory ham steaks.

Salads

Salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of ham steaks. They are perfect for balancing and providing crispness to the meal.

Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy slaw can balance the richness of the ham. The sharp flavors of the coleslaw complement the slightly sweet ham steaks. Potato Salad: A classic side that adds a creamy texture. The cool and soft texture of a potato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the ham. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach with nuts, cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing can be a light and refreshing side dish. The green spinach and the earthy flavors of nuts and cheese add a fresh and balanced flavor to the meal.

Fruits

Fresh or grilled fruits can provide a sweet and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of ham steaks. They are perfect for balancing and finishing the meal on a sweet note.

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can offer a refreshing contrast to the ham steaks. The natural sweetness of the fruit can add a light and sweet touch to the meal. Grilled Pineapple: The sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with ham, offering a warm and sweet side that complements the flavors of the dish.

Breads

Breads are often used as a base for soaking up the juices from the ham. They can also add a comforting and textural element to the meal.

Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the juices from the ham. They can be buttered or lightly toasted to enhance their flavor. Biscuits: Flaky biscuits can be added to the meal for a comforting touch. They are often used to complement the rich and savory flavors of the ham.

Sauces

Sauces can enhance the flavors of the ham steaks by adding complexity and richness to the dish. They can provide moisture and a new layer of flavor to the meal.

Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that enhances the flavor of the ham. It adds a unique and delicious twist to the meal. Chutney: Fruit-based chutneys like apple or peach can add a unique flavor profile to the meal. They provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the ham steaks.

Conclusion

Ham steaks offer a rich and flavorful main dish that can be complemented by a variety of side dishes. By carefully selecting and pairing these sides, you can create a perfect meal that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you choose creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy roasted Brussels sprouts, or sweet pineapple, there is a side dish that will enhance the flavors of your ham steaks and make for a memorable dining experience.