Hey there, food lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share a recipe that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance: Garlic Herb Baked Ham. This savory delight is not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also a healthier spin on a classic favorite—perfect for impressing your family or upping your game at the next potluck.
As I was creating this recipe, I was all about balancing flavor and health. Around here, we’re crazy about meals that don’t just taste amazing but also feel good to eat. So, strap on your apron, and let’s get cooking!
### Ingredients You’ll Need:
– **1 large bone-in ham** (about 8-10 pounds)
– **1/4 cup olive oil** (healthier than butter!)
– **6 cloves garlic, minced**
– **2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped** (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– **2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped** (also great with 1 tablespoon dried)
– **1 tablespoon Dijon mustard** (for a little zing)
– **1 teaspoon black pepper**
– **1 tablespoon honey** (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Preheat and Prepare:**
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While that’s warming up, unwrap your beautiful ham and place it face down in a large roasting pan. Quick health tip: look for a ham that’s labeled “low sodium” to keep things on the healthier side.
**2. Mix the Marinade:**
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and honey (if using). This is where all that “Garlic Herb” goodness comes into play, giving your ham a flavor boost without extra salt or fat.
**3. Slather with Style:**
Using a basting brush or just your hands (hey, it’s more fun!), coat the ham all over with your garlic herb mixture. Be sure to get into every nook and cranny—this is flavor-central, folks.
**4. Wrap It Up:**
Cover the ham with aluminum foil, nice and snug. This will trap in all those delicious aromas and flavors while it bakes. It’s like a little oven sauna for your ham.
**5. Bake Away:**
Pop the ham into your preheated oven and let it bake. You’ll want about 15-18 minutes per pound, so do a bit of math based on your ham’s weight. Don’t worry, you’ve got this!
**6. Finishing Touches:**
About 30 minutes before the ham is finished baking, remove the foil so it gets that lovely, slightly crispy exterior. We’re aiming for a golden-brown crust that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
**7. Let It Rest:**
Once out of the oven, let your masterpiece rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat oh-so-tasty when you carve it.
**8. Serve and Savor:**
Slice up your Garlic Herb Baked Ham and serve it as the star of any meal. Pair it with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a truly well-rounded, Healthy Food Recipe that everyone will love.
### Personal Insights & Tips:
– **Storage:** If you’ve got leftovers—and trust me, you’ll want them—they keep nicely in the fridge for about a week or can be frozen for up to two months. Perfect for those nights when you’re too busy to cook from scratch!
– **Pairing Ideas:** This dish pairs beautifully with roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a bright citrus salad, balancing the rich flavors of the ham.
– **Herb Swap:** No fresh herbs? No problem! Dried herbs work just fine. Remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use them sparingly.
I hope you love this Garlic Herb Baked Ham recipe as much as I do. It’s a wholesome, Healthy Food Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your house. Don’t forget to let me know your thoughts in the comments below and share your cooking adventure photos!
Happy cooking, friends! 🍽️