Do you have a holiday tradition you can't do without?
We have a tiny family, so our tradition is to go out for Mexican food on Christmas Eve, then Christmas day we feast on ham.
Why do I buy a gigantic ham for a handful of people?Because it's Mr. Mike's favorite, and after 33 years of marriage, it's the least I can do to make him happy.
While I agree with Livestrong's statement, "Ham does provide a lot of protein and some vitamins and minerals, but it is also high in both sodium and fat. " I also think that indulging every so often in Mike's favorite meal isn't such a bad thing.
I find a variety of ways to use the leftovers, and often give Grandma Karen the ham hock. She loves the smell of split pea soup and ham simmering away in her slow cooker. Better yet, she shares the results!
I'm sure we aren't the only family with more ham than we know what to do with, so I've compiled this round up so we can make the best use of every morsel.
Ham and Egg Recipes
Eggs and ham are a classic combination. The salty meatiness of ham works well with eggs, and as long as I add vegetables and greens to the dish, I feel a whole lot better about using leftover ham for a second meal in the week.
Sandwich Recipes
There are endless ham sandwich ideas, and we love them all when cheese is involved. I can keep the calories down by using my panini press. It's one appliance I'm more than willing to make room for in my kitchen cabinets.
Soups, Stews and Casseroles
Salad Recipes
I'm not sure why I don't use ham in salads all that often, but this Chopped Kale Salad with Apples, Cucumbers and Ham was inspired by take out from a local restaurant. I've been making it ever since. The crunchiness of apples and cucumbers is irresistible with salty ham.
Small Bites
This roundup wouldn't be complete if I didn't share my Cauliflower and Ham Croquettes. These little bites are a ton of fun to make, and they'll get the family eating their cauliflower without complaint.
Don't forget to leave a comment on my post for the easiest sugar free chocolate cookies ever, for your chance to win a stevia gift package from NuNaturals. I only promote content I use myself, so head on over. I'm picking winners Monday, December 29th!
That's it for today. If, like Mr. Mike, you're a lover of all things ham, then give these recipes a try and let me know what you think. Even better, leave me a comment with your favorite uses for leftover ham.
Enjoy, and have a terrific weekend!
~Kristi
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