Barefoot Contessa Leftover Ham Recipes
Sharon Brown
Have you ever found yourself staring at leftover holiday ham, wishing for inspiration? Well, you’re in the right place.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 315 kcal
- 8 ounces dried gemelli pasta
- 4 ounces ham julienned
- 1 small finely chopped shallot
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery stalks
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves roughly torn
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoncini peppers
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano
- Coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
Start by chopping your leftover ham into bite-sized pieces. If you're adding vegetables, wash and chop them, too. I find that bell peppers, onions, and even leftover roasted veggies work wonders.
Grab a large skillet and heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your onions first until they become translucent. This usually takes about three minutes. Then, add your other vegetables and cook until they’re just tender.
Once your veggies are ready, incorporate the diced ham. Let it sauté with the vegetables for about five minutes. You want it warmed through and a bit crispy on the edges. The smell? Simply divine.
If you’re using grains or pasta, add them to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. I often season with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder.
Sprinkle the cheese generously over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a couple of minutes, until the cheese melts beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a handful of spinach just before you cover it for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Use It Quickly: Leftover ham is best used within a few days for freshness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different spices; a dash of smoked paprika can be a game-changer.
- Make It Freezable: If you can’t use your leftovers right away, dice and freeze them for later use.
- Cheese Galore: Cheese adds creaminess. Play with different types to find your favorite blend.
- Make it a One-Pot Wonder: Aim for meals that incorporate everything in one dish to minimize cleanup.
Calories: 315kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa leftover ham recipes