Why the Ham Steaks Is a Must-make
When you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful meal, you can’t go wrong with ham steaks. They’re incredibly versatile and cook up in a flash, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
I love how they absorb flavors, especially when paired with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. Plus, the combination of sweet, caramelized tomatoes adds a delightful twist.
It’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup! This meal not only satisfies my cravings but also impresses guests without much effort.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for ham steaks again and again.
Ingredients of Ham Steaks
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. For this Lemon Garlic Ham Steak recipe, you won’t need to wander the aisles for hours. Instead, you just need a handful of items that you might already have stashed in your kitchen.
Trust me, you’re going to love this simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself after a long day.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 (1 lb) ham steak
- 1 lemon, cut in half
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
Now, a quick note about those ingredients: fresh is best, especially when it comes to herbs and tomatoes. I mean, who wants sad, wilted parsley or flavorless tomatoes, right?
If you can, grab the freshest produce you can find. It’s amazing how much a little freshness can elevate a dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even toss in some other herbs or spices you have lying around.
Cooking is all about experimenting, after all. Just don’t forget the lemon; it adds that zesty brightness that really brings everything together.
How to Make Ham Steaks
Alright, let’s plunge into making this mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Ham Steak. First up, grab that 1 lb ham steak and give it a good pat down with some paper towels. We want it to be nice and dry so it can really get that golden brown crust when it hits the skillet.
Now, spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place it over medium heat. Once it’s warm and ready, carefully lay that ham steak in there. You’ll want to cook it for about 3 minutes on each side. Just enough time to get it beautifully browned and seared, giving it that lovely, savory flavor. And if you’re like me, you might get a little too excited and try to flip it too soon. Just resist that urge; patience is key here.
Once your ham steak is looking all kinds of delicious, it’s time to remove it from the skillet and keep it warm—maybe under a cozy little foil tent while you whip up the sauce.
Now, take one of those lemon halves and squeeze it into the skillet, making sure to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Those bits are pure flavor magic, and we don’t want to waste them. Then, toss in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. As it melts, the aroma is going to be heavenly; trust me, your kitchen will feel like a fancy restaurant.
When the butter is all melted and bubbly, add in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley, and those halved grape tomatoes. Stir it all together and let it cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the tomatoes start to soften and lose their shape, creating a lovely, saucy goodness.
Now, here comes the fun part: spoon that glorious lemon garlic sauce right over your ham steak. It’s like a flavor explosion waiting to happen.
Serve it up immediately, and don’t forget to bask in the compliments you’ll get. I mean, who knew making such a fancy meal could be so simple? This dish isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about making your taste buds dance and your heart smile. So, savor and enjoy every last bite.
Ham Steaks Substitutions & Variations
While the Lemon Garlic Ham Steak recipe is delightful as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
If you don’t have ham steak, turkey or chicken cutlets work well. For a tangy twist, substitute lime juice for lemon. You can also swap out butter for olive oil or use fresh herbs like basil instead of parsley.
If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the garlic. Finally, try tossing in other vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Ham Steaks
Serving ham steaks can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with complementary sides.
I love to serve mine with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes, which balance the savory flavors of the ham. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, while sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli bring a pop of color and nutrition.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider baked macaroni and cheese. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce!
These sides truly elevate the meal and make it a memorable feast.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your lemon garlic ham steak turns out perfectly, I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
If you want a more intense flavor, marinate the ham steak in lemon juice and garlic for a couple of hours before cooking.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it brightens the dish beautifully.
For added texture, consider adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the tomato mixture.
Finally, serve with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite spices!