Are you tired of the same old leftover ham sandwiches or omelets? Look no further! Ham is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to main courses. And when it’s cooked with nutritious ingredients like vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, it becomes an incredibly healthy addition to your meal routine.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious recipes that feature leftover ham as the star ingredient. From hearty stews and soups to flavorful salads and stir-fries, these dishes are perfect for using up that pesky leftover ham from last night’s dinner. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that leftover ham into a culinary masterpiece!
Healthy Ham and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe combines the flavors of ham, bell peppers, and broccoli with a hint of garlic and ginger for a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Add the diced ham; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leftover Ham and Lentil Soup
Transform your leftover ham into a delicious and nutritious soup with the help of lentils and aromatic spices. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced ham, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes meet savory flavors in this delightful twist on traditional stuffed potatoes. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the salty, meaty flavor of ham and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, mix together diced ham and chopped spinach in a bowl.
4. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly before slicing them open lengthwise.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with the ham and spinach mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Diced Ham and Avocado
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with the savory taste of diced ham, creamy avocado, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced ham, avocado, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Egg White Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a delicious breakfast muffin packed with savory ham, fluffy egg whites, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cheese, ham, parsley, and egg whites. Whisk until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Drizzle melted butter over each muffin.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Low-Carb Ham and Cauliflower Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe uses cauliflower instead of grains for a low-carb alternative that’s just as flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
2. Heat one tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the processed cauliflower and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s tender and lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
4. Push the cauliflower aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of coconut oil.
5. Add the diced ham, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. Combine the cooked cauliflower with the ham mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Ham and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender ham, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham steak
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked navy beans, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Add the ham steak and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Whole Wheat Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the crunch of broccoli, all wrapped up in a whole wheat package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 slices cooked ham, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and diced ham to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and reserved pasta water in a serving bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Ham and Kale Frittata
This recipe is a creative way to use leftover ham and kale from your previous night’s meal, combining them with eggs and cheese for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked kale
– 1 cup diced leftover ham
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add cooked kale, diced ham, and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Mix well.
4. Spray a 9-inch (23cm) pie plate or skillet with cooking spray or oil.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
7. Remove from oven, let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Quinoa Bake
A hearty and flavorful quinoa dish that combines the savory goodness of ham and mushrooms with the nutty taste of quinoa. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 6 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in ham, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked quinoa, mushroom mixture, and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy Ham and Pea Risotto
This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, incorporating lean ham and fresh peas to create a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 ounces reduced-sodium ham, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the diced ham, peas, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
A delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory flavor of ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes or until translucent.
6. Add diced ham and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
7. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with the ham and onion mixture in the skillet.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Leftover Ham and Black Bean Tacos
Transform your leftover ham into a flavorful and nutritious taco filling, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This recipe combines the salty sweetness of ham with the earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced leftover ham
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans, diced ham, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the ham and bean mixture into each shell.
8. Top with your desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries, combining the savory taste of ham with the freshness of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this dish can be ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ham (diced)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion (chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchinis using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, creating noodle-like strands.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked ham, zucchini noodles, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Ham and Chickpea Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the savory taste of ham with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a healthy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, ham, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Whole Grain Wrap
This recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and asparagus with the nutty taste of whole grain wrap, making for a satisfying and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole grain wrap (10-12 inches)
– 2 slices of cooked ham
– 1 cup of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: hummus or ranch dressing for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, place the cooked ham slices on a plate.
6. Spread a thin layer of hummus or ranch dressing (if using) on the whole grain wrap.
7. Assemble the wrap by placing the roasted asparagus and ham slices on one half of the wrap, then fold in half.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Ham and Brown Rice Casserole
Transform yesterday’s leftover ham into a tasty casserole that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. This comforting dish is also an excellent way to use up brown rice and other pantry staples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup diced leftover ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked brown rice, diced ham, chopped onion, and frozen peas and carrots.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and melted butter. Add shredded cheese and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the cheesy mixture over the rice mixture and mix well.
5. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Bell Pepper Egg Scramble
Start your day off right with this flavorful Ham and Bell Pepper Egg Scramble! This recipe combines the savory taste of ham with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a fluffy egg scramble.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 2 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 large bell pepper (any color), diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat a medium-sized non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray or add a small amount of oil.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Add the diced ham and bell pepper to one half of the skillet. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half over the filling.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are almost set and the peppers are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes.
Healthy Ham and Barley Soup
Nourish your body with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with protein-rich ham, fiber-filled barley, and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, ham, barley, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan Dinner
A flavorful and healthy sheet pan dinner that combines sweet and savory flavors with the convenience of a one-pan meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sliced ham on one half of the pan, leaving space between each piece.
4. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Spread them evenly over the other half of the pan, next to the ham.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the ham is caramelized and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering healthy leftover ham recipes to reduce food waste and nourish your body. From hearty stews and soups to flavorful salads and breakfast dishes, these nutritious recipes showcase the versatility of leftover ham. Try transforming it into a stir-fry with vegetables, a quinoa bowl with avocado, or a breakfast muffin with egg whites. You’ll also find comforting casseroles, satisfying wraps, and even delicious tacos. Get creative and reduce your food waste by repurposing that leftover ham into a healthier, more exciting meal.
