Roasted Ham with Watercress
Prep
20 mins
Cook
45 mins
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
This roasted ham with watercress is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just over an hour with minimal fuss. The beautiful thing about using a bone in ham steak is that it's economical and cooks quickly while staying incredibly moist and flavorful. I love pairing it with peppery watercress, which is packed with vitamins and minerals that give you a real nutritional boost. The whole grain mustard and honey create this lovely caramelized glaze on top, while the fresh lemon juice and thyme keep everything bright and balanced. It's the kind of meal that tastes elegant enough for guests but is honestly so simple that you'll find yourself making it all the time.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 1 kgbone-in ham steak(about 1.5 inches thick)
- 3 tablespoonswhole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoonshoney
- 946 mlfresh watercress(loosely packed, thick stems removed)
- 2 tablespoonslemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 4 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 1garlic clove(minced)
- 1shallot(finely minced)
- 1 teaspoondijon mustard
- ½ teaspoonsalt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper(freshly ground)
- 3fresh thyme sprigs
- 118 mlwater
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels and score the surface in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat.
Tip: Scoring helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together whole grain mustard, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
Tip: The mixture should have a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- 3
Place the ham steak on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with foil. Brush the glaze generously over the top surface of the ham, working it into the scored lines.
Tip: Reserve about 1 tablespoon of glaze for later use.
- 4
Scatter fresh thyme sprigs around the ham and pour water into the bottom of the pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, basting with pan juices halfway through cooking.
Tip: The ham is ready when the glaze is caramelized and sticky, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- 5
While the ham roasts, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together lemon juice, minced shallot, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
Tip: Prepare this dressing just before serving to maintain the vibrant color of the watercress.
- 6
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes on the cutting board before slicing.
Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and moist.
- 7
Place fresh watercress in a large bowl and toss gently with the lemon vinaigrette until lightly coated.
Tip: Don't overdress the watercress as it wilts quickly from excess moisture.
- 8
Slice the ham into serving pieces and arrange on a platter. Top with the dressed watercress and drizzle any remaining pan juices around the plate for garnish. Serve immediately while warm.
Tip: The warm ham and cool peppery watercress create a beautiful contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Tropical Quinoa (Ww)
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.