Friday 10 April 2009

Don't throw out Easter leftovers

Well, it's nearly Easter folks, and you know what that will mean come Monday - leftover ham.
But never fear, here are some tasty alternatives as suggested by JM Hirsch of AP, to try out and give your tastebuds a real treat.
Easter is done, but the ham isn't. What next?
Ham leftovers are an easy way to crank out fast meals that pack tons of flavor. Just be sure to go easy on the salt. Most hams are cured and brined, which crank up the sodium in the meat. Taste the finished dish before adding more salt.
A frittata is an easy choice. Cut the ham into small chunks, then saute with diced onions and bell peppers. When the ham is lightly browned, pour several beaten eggs over it. When the eggs have set on the bottom, top it with cheese and broil for several minutes.
Or try ham and cheese on pasta. Toss fine-chopped ham and grated fontina (or other good melting) cheese with warm pasta and just a few tablespoons pasta cooking water for an all-but-instant mac and cheese. A splash of hot sauce gives a nice finish.
Ham also is delicious used in place of chicken in a basic chicken noodle soup. And for a nod to the classic sandwich, you could even top the soup with croutons made from cubed rye bread drizzled with olive oil and toasted.
Or if you'd rather stick with an actual sandwich, try this delicious culture clash. Ham and cheese are paired with thin-sliced pear and mango chutney inside a gently toasted and pressed panini.
Ham Panini With Smoked Gruyere and Pear

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