Simple Skillet Dinner
A quick and flavorful skillet dinner combining ham, pineapple, and rice with fresh parsley, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal with sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple; reserve syrup.
- In a large skillet, saute ham in butter until lightly browned.
- Add enough water to the pineapple syrup to make 2 cups liquid; add to the skillet.
- Stir in the contents of the rice mix.
- Bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
- Fold in the pineapple.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions or bell peppers with the ham. If you don’t have long-grain and wild rice mix, you can use a regular rice mix, but adjust the liquid accordingly. Adding a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can enhance the dish's flavor profile, reminiscent of American recipes that showcase sweet and savory combinations.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of Green Beans And Red Potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a twist, consider serving it with a side of Bourbon Street Baked Beans for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent dryness and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Skillet Dinner contains roughly 134 calories, with 14g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (133% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and potassium (60% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just chop it into tidbits and add it to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking. You may want to add a little sugar to mimic the sweetness of the canned version, depending on your taste.
What can I substitute for ham?
You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the protein you choose, ensuring it is heated through before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This skillet dinner is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers, and it will keep well in the fridge. You can easily reheat it throughout the week, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy days.
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).