30+ Side Dishes for Ham

When serving ham, you want to complement the rich and savory flavors with a variety of side dishes. Choosing the right side dishes enhances the entire meal, making your dining experience more enjoyable. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, the right sides can turn a simple ham into a memorable spread.

This article showcases options that pair well with ham, from classic vegetable dishes to more unique recipes. You’ll find ideas that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

1) Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a perfect side dish for ham. They are easy to make and incredibly flavorful.

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use non-stick spray.

Cut the potatoes into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano.

Toss the potatoes in the mixture until they are fully coated. Place them in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast the potatoes in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.

These potatoes are best served hot. They pair wonderfully with ham and bring a delicious, savory crunch to your meal.

2) Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots are a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. The sweet glaze enhances the natural flavor of the carrots, making them a favorite at any meal.

To make honey glazed carrots, start by peeling and slicing your carrots. Boil or steam them until they are tender but still firm.

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in honey. Add a pinch of salt and a bit of pepper. Once the mixture is well combined, pour it over the cooked carrots.

Let the carrots simmer in the glaze for a few minutes. The honey will caramelize slightly, giving the carrots a shiny coat and a rich flavor.

This dish is quick to make and adds vibrant color to your plate.

3) Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that pairs excellently with ham.

To make creamed spinach, start by blanching fresh spinach in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Immediately transfer the spinach to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After it cools, squeeze out any excess water.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant. Mix in a little flour to make a roux, then slowly pour in milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Once the sauce thickens, stir in the blanched spinach. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve hot with your ham for a tasty and creamy side.

4) Brown Sugar Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Brown Sugar Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a great side dish for ham. The blend of sweet and savory flavors makes them a hit. Start by cooking bacon in a skillet until crisp. Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture.

Drain the bacon on paper towels but keep the drippings in the skillet. Add trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts to the hot skillet. Cook them until they are tender and slightly charred.

Mix brown sugar into the Brussels sprouts. This will create a caramelized coating. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.

The result is a dish with crispy bacon and sweet Brussels sprouts. This side dish goes well with ham for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious contrast of flavors and textures.

5) Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a popular side dish that pairs well with ham. You start by preheating the oven and buttering a baking dish. Peel and cook the sweet potatoes until they are soft.

Mash the potatoes in a large bowl. Add ingredients like white sugar, eggs, salt, butter, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth.

Pour the potato mixture into the baking dish. A crumbly brown sugar and pecan topping can add a delightful crunch. Bake it until the topping is golden brown and the potatoes are set.

This dish brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while adding a rich texture. The combination of sweet and savory flavors complements the ham perfectly.

Sweet potato casserole is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Your guests will likely enjoy this comforting and flavorful side dish.

6) Maple Roasted Butternut Squash

Maple roasted butternut squash is a delicious and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.

In a large bowl, combine the cubed squash with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated. If you like a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of chipotle powder or cayenne pepper.

Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 45-60 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized. Make sure to stir halfway through for even cooking.

The maple syrup adds a sweet glaze that complements the natural flavor of the squash. This dish is a wonderful addition to your meal, providing a warm and sweet taste that balances the savory ham.

7) Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf is a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham.

You start by toasting pecans in the oven for a few minutes until they are fragrant. This gives them a deeper flavor.

Next, cook wild rice according to the package instructions. Make sure to fluff the rice once it’s done.

In a skillet, sauté shallots until they are translucent. Add the cooked wild rice to the pan.

Mix in dried cranberries and toasted pecans. This adds a nice balance of sweet and nutty flavors.

You can also add herbs like rosemary and parsley to enhance the taste. This gives the dish a fresh aroma.

Serve this pilaf warm alongside your ham for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Your guests will love the mix of textures and flavors.

8) Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish for ham. They are rich, creamy, and full of flavor.

To start, you need to slice the potatoes thinly. This helps them cook evenly.

Next, make a simple cheese sauce. Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, and cook until it’s golden. Slowly add milk and keep whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth.

Layer the potato slices in a baking dish. Pour some cheese sauce over each layer. Add diced ham for extra flavor. Repeat the layers until you use all the potatoes, cheese sauce, and ham.

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375 degrees F for an hour. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Cheesy scalloped potatoes pair perfectly with ham and other main dishes. Enjoy this comforting, delicious side with your meal.

9) Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that’s perfect with ham. This dish brings a warm, comforting touch to your meal. It’s not only easy to make but also delicious.

Start with fresh or canned green beans. Mix them with creamy mushroom soup to create a rich, savory base. You can also add a bit of milk to thin the mixture slightly.

Top the casserole with crispy fried onions. These add a delightful crunch. Bake it in the oven until bubbly and golden brown on top.

You can customize green bean casserole to your taste. Some people add ingredients like cheese or bacon for extra flavor. You can also use a different creamy soup if you prefer.

Serve green bean casserole hot alongside your ham. This dish is sure to be a hit with your family and guests.

10) Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Balsamic glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. They bring a touch of sweetness and tanginess to your meal. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare.

First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Peel and cut carrots into two-inch pieces or lengthwise halves. Toss the carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Spread the carrots evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures they roast evenly and don’t stick.

Roast the carrots for about 20-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to get a nice, even glaze. You’re looking for a slightly caramelized exterior with a tender interior.

For extra flavor, you can mix in a bit of honey or orange zest with the balsamic vinegar before coating the carrots. This addition adds a subtle sweetness and citrusy aroma.

When done, the carrots should be slightly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Serve them warm alongside your ham for a tasty and colorful addition to your plate.

11) Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread stuffing is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. It’s a mix of savory flavors and has a slightly sweet taste from the cornbread. This makes it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

To start, you need a skillet and an oven preheated to 350 degrees F. Melt some butter in the skillet and sauté finely chopped celery and onions until soft. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread with the sautéed vegetables. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Pour in some chicken broth to moisten the mixture, making sure it’s well combined.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown. This creates a nice, crispy texture that contrasts well with the soft interior.

Cornbread stuffing brings a hearty, comforting element to your meal. It’s straightforward to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients. This makes it a great choice when you need a reliable side dish for ham.

12) Sautéed Garlic Asparagus

Sautéed garlic asparagus is a delicious and easy side dish for ham. With just a few ingredients, it brings fresh flavors to your meal.

Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus in a single layer. Cook while turning occasionally for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the asparagus is lightly golden and almost tender.

For a burst of flavor, add minced garlic when the asparagus is nearly done. Give it a good mix to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed.

Once the asparagus is tender yet still crisp, remove from heat. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the taste.

This side dish pairs perfectly with ham and adds a touch of green to your plate, making your meal both tasty and colorful.

13) Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Loaded mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. They’re creamy, flavorful, and full of tasty toppings.

To start, boil your potatoes until they are soft. Mash them with butter, milk, and a bit of salt.

Next, add shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions to the mix.

Feel free to throw in some sour cream for extra creaminess.

Finally, top with a sprinkle of more cheese and bacon. Bake until the cheese melts.

Serve hot and watch them disappear quickly!

14) Savory Herb and Apple Stuffing

Savory Herb and Apple Stuffing is the perfect side dish to complement your ham. This stuffing features a delightful mix of fresh herbs, warm spices, and sweet apples.

You’ll need bread cubes as the base. Choose a sturdy loaf like sourdough or French bread. Add chopped apples for a burst of sweetness.

Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage give the stuffing its savory flavor. Don’t forget to add some sautéed onions and celery for extra depth.

Mix everything together with chicken or vegetable broth until the bread is moist but not soggy. Bake it in the oven until it’s golden brown on top.

This Savory Herb and Apple Stuffing pairs wonderfully with ham, adding a perfect balance of flavors to your meal.

15) Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots are a wonderful side dish to serve with ham. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and adds a pleasing tang from the balsamic vinegar.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Rinse the carrots and pat them dry. You can peel them if you prefer, then slice off both ends.

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the carrots and toss them until they are well coated.

Spread the carrots evenly on the baking pan. Roast them in the oven for 20-30 minutes until they are tender and starting to brown. Halfway through roasting, you can turn the carrots to ensure they cook evenly.

For an extra touch, drizzle a little more honey over the carrots once they are out of the oven. Sprinkle some fresh rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

These Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots are simple to make and offer a tasty balanced flavor, complementing your ham beautifully.

16) Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a fantastic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham.

You start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by buttering it.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for about 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in cream and milk until smooth. Add mustard powder and onion powder. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens.

After removing the saucepan from heat, add shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely.

Add cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and diced ham to the cheese sauce. Mix everything well until all ingredients are coated with the cheese sauce.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

For a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. This simple, cheesy, and tasty side dish will surely be a hit.

17) Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad

Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad is a bright and refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham. The combination of sweet dried cranberries and tangy orange zest brings a burst of flavor.

To make this dish, start by cooking Israeli couscous in boiling water. Drain the couscous and transfer it to a large bowl.

Add dried cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest to the couscous. Stir in a touch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick, if you like some spice.

Allow the mix to sit for at least 10 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together.

Season with salt and pepper. Fresh chopped mint can be added for extra freshness. You can serve this salad warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.

18) Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Twice-baked sweet potatoes make a wonderful side dish for ham. They’re flavorful and easy to prepare. Start by baking the sweet potatoes until they are tender.

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half and scoop out the insides. Be careful not to tear the skins, as you need them for stuffing later.

Mash the scooped-out sweet potato with butter, brown sugar, sour cream, salt, and cinnamon. You can use a hand mixer or potato masher for this step. Make sure the mixture is smooth.

Spoon the mashed sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for a short time until they are heated through.

For some extra flavor, you can top each potato with a small amount of butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar before serving. These twice-baked sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit with your ham dinner!

19) Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan

Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan is a perfect side dish for ham. It’s simple to prepare and full of flavor.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Cut cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Remove the leaves and core before cutting.

Toss the cauliflower florets in olive oil. Add garlic powder, salt, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Spread the cauliflower out in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly.

Place the sheet in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. The cauliflower should be golden brown and tender.

Serve the roasted cauliflower hot. The Parmesan adds a savory touch that pairs well with ham. Enjoy this easy and delicious side dish with your meal.

20) Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Garlic Butter Mushrooms make an excellent side dish for ham. They are simple to prepare and full of flavor.

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray.

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary. Season it with salt and pepper.

Arrange the mushrooms in a single layer on the baking sheet. Pour the butter mixture over them and gently toss to coat.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown.

You can also prepare these mushrooms on the stovetop. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the mushrooms in one layer and cook without stirring for 5-7 minutes, until they are browned. Stir occasionally until they release their moisture and all sides are cooked.

For extra flavor, add chopped parsley, chili flakes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. Give it a final toss and serve warm.

This dish pairs well with ham, adding a rich, garlicky flavor to your meal.

21) Lemon Herb Quinoa

Lemon Herb Quinoa is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

First, rinse and drain your quinoa. This helps remove any bitterness. Then, cook it in a saucepan with water or chicken stock until it absorbs all the liquid, about 15-20 minutes.

While the quinoa cooks, prepare the flavorings. You’ll need fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and thyme. You can also add garlic and a bit of olive oil for extra taste.

Once the quinoa is ready, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl. Mix in the lemon juice, zest, herbs, and garlic. Give it a gentle toss to combine everything well.

Taste the quinoa and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt and pepper. This dish is best served warm or at room temperature alongside your ham.

22) Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making them an excellent side dish for ham. You start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Take around 2 pounds of carrots, peel them, and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Toss these chunks with a mixture of olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.

Add some garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Make sure the carrots are well-coated. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or tin foil.

Spread the carrots in a single layer on the sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 45-50 minutes. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Your Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots will come out tender and flavorful, with a slight kick from the mustard. They pair wonderfully with the savory taste of ham.

23) Sweet Corn Pudding

Sweet Corn Pudding is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and easy to make.

You only need a few simple ingredients: corn, milk, sugar, and butter. These blend together to create a comforting dish with a balance of flavors.

To prepare, mix together the eggs and sugar. Add in sour cream, creamed corn, and butter, stirring as you go. Then combine with dry ingredients until the mixture is smooth.

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden and set.

Serve warm, and enjoy the rich, creamy texture alongside your savory ham. This dish adds a touch of sweetness to your meal, making it a crowd favorite at any gathering.

24) Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy, savory option that pairs well with ham. It adds a touch of richness and a burst of flavor to your meal.

You can serve this dip with a variety of items for dipping. Garlic bread or pita chips are popular choices that complement the flavors well.

For a healthier option, consider serving it with a platter of fresh veggies like carrot sticks and celery. These provide a nice crunch and balance the creamy dip.

Tortilla chips are another great option, adding a satisfying crunch. You can also try serving it with sourdough bread slices for a more rustic touch.

No matter what you choose to pair it with, spinach and artichoke dip is sure to be a hit with your guests.

25) Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is a tasty and healthy side dish for your ham dinner. It’s a great low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

To make this dish, start by preheating your oven to 450ºF. Place cauliflower florets and unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss until everything is coated evenly.

Roast the cauliflower and garlic for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. Then, remove the garlic from its skin and mash it with the roasted cauliflower.

For a creamy texture, you can add a bit of butter, sour cream, or milk to the mashed cauliflower. Mix until smooth.

Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, simple side dish with your ham.

26) Creamy Parmesan Polenta

Creamy Parmesan Polenta is a rich and comforting side dish.

Start by bringing chicken broth to a boil. This adds a savory depth to the polenta. Slowly whisk in the polenta to avoid lumps.

Reduce the heat to low and keep stirring as the polenta thickens. This often takes about 20 minutes.

Adding Parmesan cheese gives the polenta a wonderful creamy texture and a nutty flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve this dish warm. It complements the savory taste of ham perfectly.

Creamy Parmesan Polenta is both simple to make and delicious. This side dish is sure to be a hit at your table.

27) Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This dish combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon, creating a savory side that pairs well with ham.

Start by cooking bacon in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Leave the bacon grease in the skillet. Add Brussels sprouts to the pan and sauté them until they are tender and slightly browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and mix everything together.

For added sweetness, consider adding a small amount of maple syrup. Cook for a few minutes more until the Brussels sprouts are glazed and flavorful.

Serve immediately, and enjoy how the crispiness of the bacon complements the tender Brussels sprouts.

28) Ginger-Glazed Carrots

Ginger-glazed carrots make a delightful side dish for ham. They are both sweet and slightly spicy, adding a nice contrast to the savory flavor of ham.

To prepare this dish, start by slicing fresh carrots into evenly-sized pieces. In a large skillet, combine the carrots with orange juice and grated ginger.

Simmer the mixture on medium-high heat until the carrots are tender. Stir in some butter, honey, salt, and pepper for a rich, glossy finish.

For best results, cook the carrots until the glaze coats them thoroughly. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite.

Serve ginger-glazed carrots warm, directly from the skillet. They pair wonderfully with a ham and other sides for a balanced meal.

29) Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a perfect side dish for ham. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cook diced onions in a large saucepan with some butter until soft.

Add chicken broth and rice to the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the rice is almost cooked.

While the rice cooks, boil broccoli for about 2 minutes until slightly crisp. Drain and chop it.

Combine the cooked rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Sprinkle more cheese on top.

Bake for 35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Serve warm and enjoy with your ham.

30) Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

Roasted beet salad with goat cheese is a flavorful side dish for ham. The earthy taste of beets pairs well with creamy goat cheese.

To prepare, start by roasting beets. Wrap each beet in aluminum foil with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, bake at 400°F until fork-tender.

Once the beets are cooked, let them cool. Then, chop them into bite-sized pieces.

For the salad base, use greens like arugula or mixed greens. Place them in a large bowl.

Drizzle with a vinaigrette made of honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar. Toss the greens to coat them evenly.

Next, add the roasted beets to the salad. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts for crunch.

Finally, crumble goat cheese over the top. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.

This roasted beet salad with goat cheese brings a vibrant and tasty addition to your meal.

Pairing Side Dishes With Ham

Ham pairs well with a variety of side dishes that can bring out its salty, sweet, and smoky flavors. Choosing the right sides also depends on the season and the specific occasion.

Balancing Flavors

When pairing side dishes with ham, consider how different flavors can complement each other. Sweet side dishes, such as sweet potatoes or glazed carrots, balance the saltiness of ham.

A slightly tangy potato salad made with mayonnaise and mustard can provide a nice contrast. For a richer option, you could serve creamy macaroni and cheese.

Mixing textures like crispy roasted vegetables or a crunchy coleslaw adds variety to the meal. Desserts like a light fruit salad can finish off the meal perfectly without overpowering the flavors of ham.

Seasonal Considerations

The time of year also plays a significant role in what side dishes to prepare. During the winter months, comfort food sides like mashed potatoes, casseroles, and baked beans are ideal since they are warm and hearty.

In the spring or summer, you might prefer seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, fresh salads, and grilled corn. These lighter sides complement the ham without making the meal feel too heavy.

For festive occasions, traditional favorites like pineapple stuffing or holiday breads can add a special touch. Adjust your sides to match the availability of fresh produce and the overall theme of your meal.

Nutritional Considerations for Side Dishes

When choosing side dishes for ham, it’s essential to think about both healthy options and accommodating dietary restrictions to create a balanced meal.

Healthy Options

For balanced nutrition, opt for vegetable-based sides like green beans or roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli and asparagus are rich in vitamins and fiber. Grilled zucchini and brussels sprouts are also excellent options.

Use whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice instead of refined grains. These options are higher in fiber and nutrients.

Consider legumes like lentils or chickpeas. They provide protein and essential nutrients.

Incorporate healthy fats using olive oil or avocado. Instead of heavy cream, try Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich alternative.

Dietary Restrictions

Different dietary needs require careful planning. For gluten-free options, avoid wheat-based dishes and use ingredients like corn or potatoes.

Vegan or vegetarian guests will appreciate sides without animal products. You can make tasty dishes with vegetables, grains, and beans.

For low-sodium diets, avoid adding extra salt. Opt for fresh herbs, spices, and lemon juice to enhance flavors naturally.

If you have someone with food allergies, clearly label dishes containing common allergens like nuts, dairy, or soy. Consider preparing a few simple, allergen-free sides to ensure everyone’s needs are met.