Tired of the same old ham sandwiches? Don't let that delicious holiday ham go to waste! This post is packed with creative and easy recipes to transform your leftover honey ham into exciting new meals, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or delightful weekend brunches. We'll explore several delicious dishes, from comforting soups to satisfying salads, all showcasing the sweet and savory goodness of honey ham. Get ready to rediscover the magic of your leftover ham!
Honey Ham and Potato Soup: A Comforting Classic
This creamy and flavorful soup is the perfect way to use up leftover ham and potatoes. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. It's a fantastic example of turning leftovers into a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cubed cooked honey ham
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little butter or olive oil until softened.
- Add the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cubed ham.
- Carefully blend about half of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth. This creates a creamy texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Honey Ham and Cheese Quiche: A Savory Brunch Delight
This quiche is a beautiful and delicious way to utilize leftover ham. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a light dinner. This recipe is easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables and cheeses.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 2 cups cubed cooked honey ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (onions, bell peppers, spinach - your choice!)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Sprinkle the ham and cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
- Add your choice of chopped vegetables.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Quick Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a little kick.
- Veggie boost: Add any leftover vegetables to the soup or quiche for extra nutrients and flavor. Broccoli, peas, and green beans all work well.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses in the quiche, such as Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
- Make it ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a perfect meal prep option.
- Leftover crust?: Use leftover pie crust scraps to make savory crackers!
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving, Honey Ham and Potato Soup):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These are just estimates and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These recipes are just a starting point; let your creativity flow and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique honey ham masterpieces! Enjoy the delicious and resourceful meals these easy recipes provide.