Ham Easter Pairings: Best Sides for Your Holiday Dinner

Easter dinner often revolves around a central protein, and ham is a classic choice that's both delicious and versatile. But what sides and accompaniments can you serve with ham to create a memorable Easter feast? Let's explore some traditional and innovative ideas to make your Easter dinner with ham truly special.

Ham, with its savory flavor and tender texture, pairs well with a wide range of dishes. From classic sides like scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole to international-inspired dishes and elegant desserts, there's a world of possibilities to complement your Easter ham.

Classic Easter Sides

No Easter dinner is complete without classic sides that evoke nostalgia and comfort. These dishes are not only familiar but also provide a delightful contrast to the rich, salty ham.

**Scalloped Potatoes**: Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a timeless side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. The creamy texture and mild flavor help balance the saltiness of the ham, while the crispy top adds a satisfying crunch.

Green Bean Casserole

This iconic dish features green beans in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. The crunchy texture and mild flavor of the green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the rich ham, while the creamy sauce adds another layer of indulgence to your Easter dinner.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and comforting side dish that complements the savory ham beautifully. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the saltiness of the ham, while the marshmallow topping adds a delightful crunch and gooey texture.

International-Inspired Sides

Venturing beyond classic Easter sides, you'll find a world of international-inspired dishes that can elevate your ham dinner to new heights.

**German-Style Red Cabbage**: This tangy and sweet side dish is a perfect match for ham. The combination of red cabbage, apples, and vinegar creates a bright and refreshing flavor that cuts through the richness of the ham, while the warm spices add a comforting note.

Italian-Style Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables with Italian herbs and olive oil are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with ham. The combination of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, creates a visually appealing dish that's packed with flavor and nutrients.

French-Style Haricots Verts

Haricots verts, or French green beans, are a sophisticated side dish that's simple to prepare. Sautéed with garlic, butter, and a squeeze of lemon, these tender green beans provide a light and refreshing contrast to the rich ham.

Elegant Desserts

After a satisfying meal, a delightful dessert can be the perfect finish to your Easter dinner. Here are two elegant dessert ideas that pair beautifully with ham.

**Lemon Bars**: Tart and sweet lemon bars are an excellent complement to the savory ham. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon bars helps cleanse the palate and provides a refreshing finish to your Easter feast.

Chocolate Mousse

Rich and velvety chocolate mousse is a decadent dessert that pairs surprisingly well with ham. The combination of the salty, savory ham and the sweet, creamy chocolate creates a harmonious balance that's both indulgent and satisfying.

As you plan your Easter dinner with ham, consider these classic and international-inspired sides, as well as elegant dessert options. By experimenting with different flavors and textures, you can create a memorable Easter feast that your family and friends will love. Happy Easter, and bon appétit!