A deliciously sweet and savory option, this recipe showcases a juicy honey-glazed ham accompanied by a refreshing pineapple salsa, adding a tropical twist to your holiday feast.
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with our Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Salsa recipe. This delightful dish features a succulent, fully cooked ham coated in a luscious glaze made from honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, and a hint of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. As the ham bakes in the oven, the glaze caramelizes, creating a beautiful golden crust that locks in the ham’s natural juices.
This Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Salsa is not only a show-stopping centerpiece for your Christmas dinner table but also a dish that will impress your guests with its harmonious combination of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to elevate your holiday meal, this recipe is sure to delight and leave everyone craving for more.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy. The honey glaze caramelizes beautifully over the ham, creating a glossy, slightly sticky crust, while the pineapple salsa adds a refreshing tropical twist that cuts through the richness of the meat. It’s a vibrant and crowd-pleasing centerpiece that’s surprisingly simple to make. I love how it elevates a traditional dish into something bright and modern — it feels festive without being fussy.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Perfect for holidays or special occasions
- A stunning main dish with minimal prep
- Balanced flavors: salty, sweet, and citrusy
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Leftovers are just as delicious (think ham sandwiches or breakfast hash)
Preparation Time & Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 Hours
Calories:
- Per Serving (based on 8 servings): ~380–420 calories
(Calories may vary depending on the ham cut and amount of honey glaze used.)
Print
Ingredients
1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken or turkey broth (for basting)
- For the Pineapple Salsa:
2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.
- Brush the ham generously with the honey glaze, making sure to get into the scored lines. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes during the cooking process.
- While the ham is baking, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the honey-glazed ham warm, accompanied by the refreshing pineapple salsa on the side. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
Tips:
- Score the ham before glazing to help the flavors soak in.
- Baste the ham every 20–30 minutes for a beautifully caramelized finish.
- Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes after baking for juicy slices.
Variations:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze.
- Herbaceous Touch: Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the honey glaze.
- Tropical Salsa Swap: Use mango or papaya in place of pineapple.
- Low Sugar Option: Swap honey with maple syrup or a sugar-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted sweet potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Add a green side like steamed green beans or a crisp arugula salad.
- Pair with cornbread or Hawaiian rolls for a sweet-savory combo.
- Top leftover ham on toasted ciabatta with a bit of salsa for an easy lunch.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the ham, so it’s always best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the desired doneness.
