Savory Roast Fresh Ham
A flavorful roasted fresh ham infused with herbs, olives, and parsley, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions with savory, aromatic tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have butcher remove bones from ham.
- Combine salt, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, garlic salt, and crumbled rosemary leaves; rub half inside the meat.
- Combine chopped parsley, chopped black olives, chopped green onion, and chopped pimientos; distribute on the inside of the meat.
- Tie the ham securely with cord.
- Score the fat and skin of the ham, then rub with the remaining seasoning mixture.
- Place the meat, fat side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Roast in a slow oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 4 1/2 hours (30 minutes per pound).
- If the meat gets too brown, cover lightly with foil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider substituting the fresh ham with a pork shoulder if you can't find it. Ensure that the butcher removes the bones for even cooking. To enhance the seasoning, marinate the ham overnight in the rub. Also, if you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the rub mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This savory roast fresh ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices. It also makes an excellent filling for sandwiches the next day, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through. You can also use leftover ham in sandwiches or salads for a delicious meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Roast Fresh Ham contains roughly 154 calories, with 13g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2309mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while fresh ham is traditional for this recipe, you can use a boneless pork shoulder or even a beef roast. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats require varying times to reach the desired doneness.
How can I tell when the ham is done cooking?
The best way to check if the ham is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the meat. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the ham is pierced.
What should I do if the ham is browning too quickly?
If the ham starts to brown too quickly during roasting, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the exterior from burning while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).