Asparagus Ham Dinner

This Asparagus Ham Dinner is a simple, delicious, and hearty meal that brings together tender asparagus, savory ham, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is all about comfort and flavor without too much fuss. The combination of fresh veggies, salty ham, and a creamy sauce makes it a winner, and you can easily serve it alongside potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 15 min

Total Time: 25 min

Makes: 6 servings

Author: Siddhanath Metkari

Recipe Tools You Use:

1. Microplane
2. Garlic Press
3. Wire whisk
4. a big pot
5. Sharp knife
6. bowl
7. skillet
8. kitchen tongs

Asparagus Ham Dinner recipe video:

Ingredients:

1. 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
2. 2 cups cooked ham, diced
3. 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
4. 2 tbsp butter
5. 1 tbsp olive oil
6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1/4 cup flour
8. 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
9. 1 cup shredded cheddar (or Swiss for a milder taste)
10. Salt and pepper, to taste
11. 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
12. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
13. Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Blanch the Asparagus

Bring salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and dunk into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Ham

In a spacious skillet, melt some butter and drizzle in olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until it becomes tender, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. Add the ham and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the ham is heated through and lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the ham and onion, stirring well. Sauté for one minute to get rid of the raw flour flavor. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Add the blanched asparagus to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If you like, sprinkle Parmesan over the top and let it melt for a minute.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the asparagus and ham directly from the skillet, garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips:

• Serve with: Roasted potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Leftovers: Reheat in a skillet or microwave—this dish stays delicious for up to two days in the fridge.
• Add a crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan over the top for some texture.
• Veggie swap: Not into asparagus? Try broccoli, green beans, or zucchini instead.

This cozy Asparagus Ham Dinner is quick to make, full of flavor, and the perfect way to use up leftover ham. Enjoy it in under 30 minutes.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Health Benefits of Asparagus Ham Dinner:

1. High in Protein: Ham and cheese pack a punch of protein, essential for muscle growth and overall body repair.
2. Rich in Fiber: Asparagus adds a healthy dose of fiber, which supports digestion and keeps your gut happy.
3. Loaded with Vitamins: Asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, boosting immunity and promoting glowing skin.
4. Bone Health: The milk and cheese provide calcium, key for keeping bones strong and healthy.
5. Antioxidant-Rich: Asparagus is loaded with antioxidants like glutathione, which help fight off inflammation and oxidative stress.
6. Supports Heart Health: Olive oil and mustard powder offer heart-friendly fats and anti-inflammatory benefits.
7. Boosts Immunity: Garlic and onions contain natural compounds that help fight bacteria and strengthen the immune system.
8. Good for Eye Health: The vitamin A in asparagus promotes good vision and helps protect against eye conditions.
9. Energy Boosting: The balance of ham, cheese, and veggies gives you steady energy without the crash.
10. Helps Maintain Blood Sugar Levels: Asparagus is low on the glycemic index, making it a good choice for balancing blood sugar.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Keep your leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dish (without cheese on top) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Allow the dish to cool down entirely before placing it in the freezer.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheat:

• Reheat in a Skillet: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce from drying out. Stir occasionally for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Reheat in the Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

Reuse:

• Casserole: Spread the leftovers in a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
• Frittata: Mix the leftovers with beaten eggs and either bake or cook on the stovetop for a quick and hearty breakfast frittata.
• Soup: Dice the leftover ingredients and mix them with broth to create a quick and creamy soup featuring asparagus and ham.

This Asparagus Ham Dinner is not only packed with nutrition but also incredibly versatile, making it an easy dish to enjoy for days.

FAQ’s

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