Are you looking for some inspiration to add more protein-packed meals to your repertoire? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and healthy ham recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, we’ve got you covered.
Ham is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from sweet and savory breakfast options to comforting and flavorful soups and stews. And the best part? It’s easy to make healthy choices when cooking with ham, as long as you choose leaner cuts and pair them with nutritious sides.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite healthy ham recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. From classic dishes like baked ham and quinoa salad to more adventurous options like ham and vegetable skewers and ham and black bean quesadillas, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Honey Glazed Baked Ham with Pineapple
This classic baked ham recipe gets a sweet and tangy boost from a honey-glazed topping and caramelized pineapple rings. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 cup pineapple rings, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush with olive oil.
5. Pour the honey-glazed mixture evenly over the ham.
6. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe combines the savory flavor of ham with creamy white beans, all simmered together in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the ham, white beans, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Ham and Spinach Egg Muffins
Start your day with a nutritious twist on classic breakfast muffins! These egg-cellent treats combine the savory flavors of ham, spinach, and cheese with whole wheat goodness.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (low-sodium)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 whole wheat English muffins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add chopped ham, spinach, and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Mix well.
4. Brush the tops of the English muffins with olive oil.
5. Pour the egg mixture onto the muffin halves, filling them about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 6 muffins
Grilled Ham and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled Ham and Vegetable Skewers Recipe
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional grilled skewers, this recipe combines sweet ham with a variety of vegetables for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread ham, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush both sides of the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the ham is caramelized and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Diced Ham and Avocado
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this quinoa dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creaminess of avocado and the savory taste of diced ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced ham (such as prosciutto or black forest)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced ham, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Gently fold in diced avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines the savory flavor of ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, paprika, or grated cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender, flipping halfway through.
5. While sweet potatoes are cooking, chop cooked ham into small pieces.
6. Once sweet potatoes are done, remove from oven and stir in chopped ham.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Sodium Ham and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich ham, fiber-filled lentils, and aromatic spices, all while keeping sodium levels in check. This recipe makes 6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lean ham, diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the ham, lentils, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend; stir well.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
Savor a delicious and healthy meal with this quick and easy ham and broccoli stir-fry served with brown rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli; cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in the cooked ham and soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the stir-fry over brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Ham and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced ham to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the ham mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and healthy stuffed peppers!
Ham and Mushroom Frittata
This savory frittata combines the flavors of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced ham over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the mushroom-ham mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the eggs are set.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Ham and Cheese Wrap with Greens
This recipe combines the flavors of ham, cheese, and fresh greens in a whole wheat wrap, making for a satisfying and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole wheat tortilla (10 inches)
– 2 slices of cooked ham
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a surface.
2. Arrange the ham slices along the center of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham.
4. Top with chopped greens and drizzle with hummus.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a wrap.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Ham and Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of ham and butternut squash, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add squash, ham, chicken broth, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Ham and Asparagus Omelette
A savory breakfast or brunch option that combines the sweetness of baked ham with the earthiness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a fluffy omelette.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup diced baked ham (such as spiral-cut)
– 6-8 asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs until frothy.
3. Heat butter in a 9-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Pour in eggs and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add asparagus and diced ham to one half of the omelette.
6. Use spatula to gently fold other half of omelette over filling.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Ham and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of ham and kale, making for a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect as a main course or side dish, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add diced ham, chopped kale, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until kale is wilted.
5. Split cooked sweet potatoes open lengthwise and top each with the ham-kale mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Healthy Ham and Cauliflower Fried Rice
A twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines the savory flavor of ham with the nutritional benefits of cauliflower, making it a perfect option for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably leftover)
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add the cooked ham and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cooked brown rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Black Bean Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the savory taste of ham with the richness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, cilantro, and diced ham.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean-ham mixture onto the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Zucchini Noodle Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of zucchini noodles with the savory flavor of ham. Perfect for a light and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1/4 cup cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands.
2. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini noodles, diced ham, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including spiralizing time)
Ham and Chickpea Curry
This hearty curry combines the rich flavors of ham with the comforting warmth of chickpeas, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb diced ham
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add ham, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan Dinner
In this quick and flavorful recipe, we combine the savory goodness of ham with the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts for a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard.
4. Add the sliced ham and Brussels sprouts to the bowl; toss to coat with the marinade.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spread the ham and Brussels sprouts mixture on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the ham is caramelized and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ham and Apple Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of ham, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or salad topping. With just 10 ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a great addition to your healthy meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1 large apple, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced ham, and sliced apples.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 20 delicious and healthy ham recipes! From classic dishes like baked ham with pineapple to innovative creations like quinoa salad with diced ham and avocado, there’s something for every occasion. Discover how to make the most of this versatile ingredient in recipes that combine sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion centerpiece, these healthy ham recipes are sure to impress.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
