Ham It Up: Creative Ways to Serve Easter Ham This Year

The Easter ham. It’s a tradition, a centerpiece, a symbol of springtime gatherings. But let’s be honest: sometimes, tradition can get a little…predictable. A classic honey-baked ham is lovely, but this year, at Nick’s of Clinton, we’re challenging you to break free from the ordinary and really “Ham It Up!” We’re talking about exploring a universe of flavors, presentations, and pairings that will transform your Easter ham from a familiar staple into a culinary adventure. 

This isn’t just about a new glaze; it’s about rethinking the entire ham experience. From globally-inspired recipes to stunning side dishes and creative leftover transformations, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Get ready to impress your guests (and yourself!) with an Easter ham that’s truly unforgettable.

Flavor Profiles & Innovative Ham Recipes: Going Global (and Beyond!)

Forget the same old, same old. This year, let’s embark on a culinary journey around the world, exploring flavor profiles that will take your Easter ham to exciting new heights. At Nick’s of Clinton, we believe in quality ingredients and bold flavors, and we’ve got some inspiration to get your creative juices flowing.

Sweet & Savory Ham

This is a classic for a reason, but we’re taking it up a notch.

  • Maple-Bourbon Glaze with a Mustard Kick: Imagine the rich sweetness of pure maple syrup, infused with the smoky notes of Kentucky bourbon, and finished with a tangy Dijon mustard. This glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful crust. Key Ingredients: Maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cloves. Nick’s Tip: Use our high-quality bourbon selection for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Apricot-Ginger Glaze with a Hint of Soy: This glaze offers a bright, fruity sweetness from apricot preserves, balanced by the warm spice of fresh ginger and a touch of savory umami from soy sauce. Key Ingredients: Apricot preserves, fresh ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar. Nick’s Tip: Look for our locally sourced apricot preserves for the best flavor.
  • Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze with a Chili Twist: The classic pairing of pineapple and ham gets a sophisticated upgrade. Brown sugar adds depth, while a pinch of chili flakes provides a subtle, unexpected heat. Key Ingredients: Crushed pineapple, brown sugar, chili flakes, cider vinegar, cloves.

Spicy & Zesty Ham

For those who like a little heat, these glazes will ignite your taste buds.

  • Chipotle-Cherry Glaze: The smoky heat of chipotle peppers is perfectly balanced by the sweet tartness of cherries. This glaze creates a deep, complex flavor profile that’s both bold and refined. Key Ingredients: Dried cherries, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, orange juice. Nick’s Tip: Adjust the amount of chipotle to control the heat level.
  • Jalapeño-Lime Glaze with Cilantro: This vibrant glaze combines the fresh, citrusy notes of lime with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the bright herbaceousness of cilantro. Key Ingredients: Jalapeño peppers, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, honey, garlic.
  • Jerk-Spiced Ham: Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with a jerk-spiced ham. A blend of allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers (use with caution!), thyme, and other spices creates a complex and intensely flavorful crust. Key Ingredients: Jerk seasoning blend (allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, ginger, etc.), brown sugar, lime juice.

Mediterranean Ham

Embrace the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.

  • Rosemary-Garlic Ham with Lemon & Olive Oil: This simple yet elegant glaze highlights the natural flavors of the ham. Fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil create a fragrant and delicious crust. Key Ingredients: Fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper. Nick’s Tip: Use our extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato & Feta Stuffed Ham: Take your ham to the next level by stuffing it with a mixture of sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh herbs. This adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor to every bite. Key Ingredients: Boneless ham, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, fresh oregano, and fresh basil.

Asian-Inspired Ham

Explore the bold and aromatic flavors of Asia.

  • Hoisin-Ginger Glaze: This glaze combines the sweet and savory flavors of hoisin sauce with the warm spice of ginger and a touch of garlic. Key Ingredients: Hoisin sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey.
  • Five-Spice Ham with Star Anise: Aromatic five-spice powder, star anise, and a touch of honey create a fragrant and flavorful glaze that’s both exotic and comforting. Key Ingredients: Five-spice powder, star anise, honey, soy sauce, orange zest.
  • Gochujang Glaze: Add a fermented kick to your Easter ham, gochujang is a flavor bomb that is worth the exploration.

Smoky & BBQ Ham

Bring the flavors of the barbecue to your Easter table.

  • Smoked Paprika & Brown Sugar Rub: A dry rub of smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices creates a smoky, savory crust. Key Ingredients: Smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (optional).
  • BBQ Glaze with a Hint of Bourbon: Combine your favorite BBQ sauce with a splash of bourbon, brown sugar, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet glaze.

Side Dish Sensations: Elevating Your Ham with Perfect Pairings

The perfect Easter ham deserves equally impressive side dishes. Think beyond the usual mashed potatoes and consider these creative pairings that will complement your chosen ham flavor profile.

Classic Comforts (Reimagined)

  • Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère and Thyme: Elevate this classic with the nutty flavor of Gruyère and the earthy aroma of fresh thyme. Pairs well with: Sweet & Savory Ham, Mediterranean Ham.
  • Sweet Potato Gratin with Pecan Crumble: A sophisticated twist on sweet potato casserole, featuring a crunchy pecan crumble topping. Pairs well with: Sweet & Savory Ham, Smoky & BBQ Ham.
  • Creamy Mac and Cheese with Smoked Gouda: Add a smoky depth to your mac and cheese with smoked Gouda and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Pairs well with: Spicy & Zesty Ham, Smoky & BBQ Ham.

Fresh & Vibrant Veggies

  • Roasted Asparagus with Lemon-Parmesan Dressing: Simple, elegant, and bursting with fresh spring flavor. Pairs well with: All ham flavor profiles.
  • Grilled Broccolini with Chili Flakes and Garlic: A slightly spicy and flavorful side that adds a touch of char. Pairs well with: Spicy & Zesty Ham, Asian-Inspired Ham.
  • Honey-Ginger Glazed Rainbow Carrots: Colorful and delicious, these carrots offer a touch of sweetness and spice. Pairs well with: Sweet & Savory Ham, Asian-Inspired Ham.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Crispy Brussels sprouts with a tangy balsamic glaze are a crowd-pleasing side. Pairs well with: All ham flavor profiles

Grain & Starch Power

  • Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries, Walnuts, and Feta: A healthy and flavorful salad that adds texture and interest. Pairs well with: Mediterranean Ham, Sweet & Savory Ham.
  • Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Herbs: A hearty and earthy side dish that complements the richness of ham. Pairs well with: Smoky & BBQ Ham, Mediterranean Ham.
  • Creamy Polenta with Roasted Vegetables: A comforting and versatile side that can be customized with your favorite roasted vegetables. Pairs well with: All ham flavor profiles.

Bright & Acidic Salads

  • Citrus Salad with Avocado and Red Onion: A refreshing salad that cuts through the richness of ham. Pairs well with: Smoky & BBQ Ham, Spicy & Zesty Ham.
  • Arugula Salad with Shaved Fennel and Grapefruit Vinaigrette: A peppery and slightly bitter salad that balances sweet and savory flavors. Pairs well with: Sweet & Savory Ham, and Mediterranean Ham.

Presentation is Key: Serving Ham with Style and Flair

A beautifully presented ham elevates the entire dining experience. It’s not just about taste; it’s about creating a visual feast.

Carving Techniques

  • Spiral-Cut Ham: The easiest to carve, simply follow the pre-cut slices.
  • Bone-In Ham: Create a stable base by carving a few slices perpendicular to the bone, then carve thin slices parallel to the bone.
  • Boneless Ham: Slice to your desired thickness. Consider scoring the ham in a diamond pattern before glazing for a beautiful presentation.

Garnishing Inspiration

  • Fresh Herbs: Rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, parsley, chives (choose herbs that complement your glaze).
  • Citrus Slices: Oranges, lemons, limes (add a pop of color and freshness).
  • Edible Flowers: Pansies, violas (ensure they are food-grade).
  • Fruit: Pineapple wedges, cherries, grapes, figs (choose fruits that complement your glaze).
  • Candied Ginger or Nuts: Add a touch of sweetness and texture.

Serving Platters & Dishes

  • Large Oval Platter: A classic choice for showcasing the whole ham.
  • Tiered Serving Stand: Creates visual height and adds a touch of elegance.
  • Rustic Wooden Board: Perfect for a more casual or BBQ-themed Easter.
  • Carving Board with a Well: Catches juices and keeps the ham moist.

Consider the Table Setting

  • Linens: Choose a tablecloth and napkins that complement your Easter décor.
  • Centerpiece: A simple floral arrangement or a bowl of Easter eggs can add a festive touch.
  • Lighting: Soft, warm lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Waste Not, Want Not: Creative Leftover Ham Transformations

Easter ham almost always means leftovers, and that’s a good thing! Here’s how to transform those leftovers into delicious and exciting meals.

Lunch/Sandwiches

  • Cuban Sandwich: Pressed sandwich with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
  • Croque Monsieur: A classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich with béchamel sauce.
  • Bahn Mi-Inspired Ham Sandwich: Crusty baguette filled with ham, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayo.
  • Ham Salad: Classic, easy, and versatile – serve on sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps.

Dinner Dishes

  • Ham and Bean Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly spring evening.
  • Ham and Lentil Stew: A protein-packed and satisfying stew.
  • Pasta Carbonara with Ham: A creamy and decadent pasta dish.
  • Ham Pot Pie: Comfort food at its finest.
  • Ham and Cheese Soufflé: A light and airy dish that’s perfect for a special occasion.
  • Scalloped Potatoes with Ham: A classic comfort food combination.

Breakfast/Brunch

  • Ham and Cheese Quiche: A versatile dish that can be served for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
  • Breakfast Burritos with Ham: A hearty and satisfying breakfast on the go.
  • Frittatas: Similar to a quiche, but without the crust.
  • Ham and Potato Hash: A classic breakfast dish that’s perfect for using up leftover potatoes and ham.

Salads & Starters

  • Chopped Ham Salad with Vinaigrette: A lighter take on traditional ham salad.
  • Ham and Melon Skewers: A sweet and savory appetizer.
  • Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: A fun and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties.

Ham-tastic: Embrace the Creativity This Easter!

This Easter, don’t settle for the ordinary. Let your creativity shine and transform your Easter ham into a culinary masterpiece. From exploring global flavor profiles and crafting stunning side dishes to mastering presentation techniques and reinventing leftovers, there are countless ways to “Ham It Up!” this year. Remember, it’s about more than just following a recipe; it’s about experimenting, having fun, and creating a memorable Easter meal that your family and friends will rave about.

Ready to get started? Visit Nick’s of Clinton today! We have a wide selection of premium hams, fresh ingredients, and expert advice to help you create your most delicious Easter feast yet. Let us help you make this Easter truly special. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new – you might just discover your new favorite Easter tradition!

Quick and Easy 4th of July Desserts to Impress 

With the 4th of July just around the corner, you’re probably planning for a patriotic get-together with family and friends. Whether you choose to grill the main course or have everyone bring their favorites, you might want to provide some delicious desserts for your guests. Here are some quick and easy 4th of July desserts your guests will love and talk about for years to come. 

1. American Flag Pie

If you’re feeling creative, you might want to tackle this American Flag Pie recipe. This recipe involves making homemade pie crust to resemble a flat. You’ll want to watch the video demonstration to get it right. 

2. Berry Cobbler

Depending on what’s in season, you can put together this Mixed Berry Cobbler with crumbled streusel topping. Don’t forget the ice cream to serve it a la mode!

3. Fresh Berry Cream Cake

This Fresh Berry Cream Cake includes three layers of fluffy, soft, vanilla sponge cake with mascarpone cream and fresh berries on top. It’s perfect for hot days and summer gatherings. 

4. American Flag Cake Pops

Cake pops have become a popular dessert and snack over the past few years. These American Flag Cake pops are made with a red velvet cake base, coated in white chocolate, and then decorated with patriotic sprinkles. 

5. Lemon Berry Trifle

A trifle is a popular and refreshing dessert on a hot afternoon. This Lemon Berry Trifle includes fresh berries, lemon pound cake, fresh whipped cream, and lemon cheesecake filling. 

6. Simple No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits

These Simple No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits are perfect for a 4th of July party because everyone gets their own dessert. They only take about 20 minutes to prepare using just a few simple ingredients. 

7. Firecracker Crispy Marshmallow Pops

These are chocolate-dipped rice crispy treats that are decorated with red, white, and blue sprinkles. You can also add a straw in the middle to make them crispy marshmallow pops, which are less messy to eat. 

8. Classic Strawberry Shortcakes

There’s nothing more American than a good old-fashioned strawberry shortcake. To get the authentic experience, grab a box of Bisquick, some fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. 

9. Red, White, and Blue Jello Squares

Some type of jello dish should be a staple at every holiday gathering. Why not make one of them a dessert? These fun and festive Red, White & Blue Jello Squares are poured layer by layer, but the recipe is still easy to make. 

10. S’More Brownies

For the chocolate lovers in your crew, consider making these rich but delicious S’Mores Brownies. All you need is your favorite brownie mix, mini marshmallows, graham crackers, and some milk chocolate bars. 

11. Icebox Cake

Sometimes, it’s just too darn hot outside to fire up the oven for baking. If you’re looking for a unique no-bake dessert, try this Icebook Cake, which uses whipped cream and chocolate wafers to make a multi-layered cake. 

12. Golden M&M’s Bars

These Golden M&M Bars will be a hit with guests of all ages. They are sort of like blondies but loaded with yummy M&Ms. If you want, you can include just the red and blue candies to make them more patriotic. 

13. July 4th Ice Cream Cake

If you’re looking to impress your guests with your skills, consider this July 4th ice cream cake that has a layer of vanilla ice cream between two layers of fluffy vanilla cake colored red and blue. 

14. Red, White & Blue Sugar Cookie Pie

This simple sugar cookie pie recipe involves dressing up a Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie mix with some other delicious ingredients to create a red, white, and blue pie that is ideal for your gathering.

15. Patriotic Ice Pops

These patriotic ice pops will not only be a crowd favorite, but they are also simple and easy to make. In about 15 minutes, you can whip up this unique dessert that includes vanilla ice cream, raspberry sorbet, and blueberries. 

Get All Your 4th of July Dessert Ingredients at Nick’s of Clinton

When you’re planning the perfect 4th of July event, you need plenty of food and beverages to keep your guests happy. And that includes desserts! You can get the high-quality ingredients you need to make these recipes at Nick’s of Clinton. 

For over 50 years, Nick’s has been proudly serving the local community by delivering a full-service shopping experience. You’ll get one-stop shopping for all of your grocery, deli, meat, and fine wine and spirits needs. Stop in today or give us a call at (301) 843-4825. 

A Guide to Creating Healthy Salads Fit for a Family Dinner

Are you looking for something healthier to serve for a family dinner? Entree salads are a filling, delicious, and healthy choice to give your family something a bit different. Many of these meals are full of protein, fresh veggies, and tons of flavor. Here are some ideas for healthy salads you can serve your family for dinner. 

Chopped Salad With Chicken and Blue Cheese

If you want a salad with a ton of flavor that will be filling, put this one on your list. You can use chopped spinach and romaine or all spinach for your greens. Then, you include bite-sized chunks of chicken, tomatoes, red peppers, cucumbers, olives, and onion. It’s tossed with a homemade blue cheese dressing. 

Rainbow Chopped Salad With Mozzarella & Basil

This delicious salad will be a hit with your kids because it is also so colorful. It only takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is gluten-free. Some of the ingredients include chopped kale, mozzarella pearls, yellow bell peppers, carrots, red cabbage, and grape tomatoes. You can also top it with some fresh grilled chicken. 

Asian Slaw With Steak

Just because you’re eating a salad doesn’t mean you have to skip the red meat. This Asian Slaw with Steak salad is tasty, filling, and simple to prepare. It includes cabbage, shredded carrots, green onions, fresh cilantro, and, of course, sliced steak. 

Spinach and Strawberry Salad

There’s just something so fresh about eating strawberries with your meal. This spinach and strawberry salad is a favorite because it combines the sweetness of strawberries with a protein like grilled chicken or salmon. Everything lays on a bed of spinach leaves and is topped with feta and walnuts. 

Green Salad With Chickpeas & Spicy Honey Dressing

If you want a vegetarian salad for a family meal, this green salad with chickpeas is an excellent choice. It is made from two lettuces and chickpeas, which add protein to the dish. There are also cucumbers and sesame seeds. The dish is topped with a sweet and spicy tahini dressing. 

Thai Curry Chicken Salad

This yummy Thai Curry Chicken Salad combines Thai curry chicken with veggies, fresh pineapple, and creamy Dijon mustard. It’s simple to make and entirely customizable. If you don’t like some of the ingredients or want to add others, you’ll still end up with an amazing result. 

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

One thing to love about pasta salad is that it’s filling. That makes it a great choice for a meal. This chicken Caesar pasta salad combines a traditional Caesar salad with pasta, bacon, and chicken, to make a delicious and filling meal. It’s also simple to make. You can elect to make your own Caesar dressing or use one you purchase from the store. 

Tarragon Tuna Salad

This tasty and well-seasoned salad is also good for you. It’s made from two cans of tuna, lettuce leaves, fresh tarragon, reduced-fat mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a few other ingredients. 

Chicken Fajita Salad With Lime-Cilantro Dressing

Get the fajita flavor with your dinner, and skip the carbs that come with tortillas. This chicken fajita salad includes grilled chicken and avocado over a bed of romaine lettuce. Other ingredients include limes, jalapeno and bell peppers, onion, honey, and cilantro. 

Blackened Chicken Cobb Salad

If you like your chicken with a kick, make sure to put this blackened chicken cobb salad on your list. It’s a keto-friendly and low-carb meal that includes hard-boiled eggs, sliced avocado, and lots of greens. 

Classic Crab Salad

Living in Maryland, you probably eat a lot of crab. This Classic Crab Salad recipe is one of the best ways to enjoy crab meat, which you can turn into a delicious meal for your family. All you need to create this magic is crab meat, fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and a creamy lemon dressing. 

Get the Freshest Produce at Nick’s of Clinton

If you want to create healthy and delicious salads for your family meals, you need to use only the freshest ingredients. When you shop at Nick’s of Clinton, you’ll get fresh produce straight from local suppliers. You’ll find the highest-quality fruits and vegetables in our store, as well as other salad pairings, such as nuts, cheeses, meat, eggs, and more. 

If you’re looking for something specific or have any questions about our products, we’d be happy to help. Our family-owned business has served the Southern Maryland community for over four decades, providing fantastic quality and superior customer service. Give us a call at (301) 843-4825 or stop into our store in Waldorf today.

 

The Best Cuts of Meat and How to Cook Them

When a skilled butcher creates different cuts of steak from a cow, you end up with a lot of delicious meat. But each cut has a different flavor and texture. Knowing what to choose and how to cook it can be confusing, especially when you walk into your local grocery store and see it all displayed together. To demystify some of this, here is what you need to know about some of the best cuts of steak and how to cook them. 

The Best Cuts of Meat and How to Cook Them

Filet Mignon

What It Is:

Filet mignon is a tender part of the cow’s back, coming from the very tip of the tenderloin. It does lack some flavor because it doesn’t come with a bone. But you can certainly enhance its taste when preparing it. 

How to Cook It:

Many cooks love to wrap a filet in bacon. Because this is a thick cut of meat, it’s ideal for grilling or broiling. Whichever method you choose, a shorter cooking time will lock in the flavors. It can also be combined with your favorite au jus or sauce, like bearnaise. 

T-Bone

What It Is:

This is a recognizable cut of meat due to its T-shaped bone. The meat contains a nice-sized tenderloin on one side and a strip of top loin on the other. 

How to Cook It:

This type of steak is best prepared by grilling or pan-frying with a variety of seasonings, like basic salt and pepper, paprika, coriander, and turmeric. 

New York Strip

What It Is:

A New York strip steak comes from a part of the cow’s short loin. This is a boneless steak that you get from the larger end of the loin. It generally has a lot of marbling and will come with some large pieces of fat surrounding the meat. While not the most tender meat, New York strip is known for having a ton of flavor. 

How to Cook It:

The best way to cook this meat is over high heat. You first can add seasoning to your taste and then grill, broil, or pan-sear the meat to your desired doneness. 

Prime Rib

What It Is:

Prime rib, as the name suggests, comes from the cow’s rib section. It is a large roasting joining that generally contains big sections of rib bone. As such, the meat usually has a lot of flavor. 

How to Cook It:

This cut of meat is best cooked for an extended time at a low temperature. If you are looking for a slow-cook type of meat, prime rib might be an ideal choice. 

Ribeye

What It Is:

Also sometimes called a Delmonico, a ribeye steak comes from the center, or “eye,” of a cow’s rib area. This type of steak usually has a lot of marbling, which is the fat around the muscles. While a ribeye’s flavor is known to be mild, it is also incredibly juicy and tender. 

How to Cook It:

In general, ribeyes should be cooked over the grill to about medium. You can grill a ribeye slightly longer than other meat due to its high fat content. Combine the meat with any sauce or seasonings you prefer for additional flavor. 

Brisket

What It Is:

Brisket is found on the cow’s lower breast. It is one of the most popular cuts of meat due to its versatility. You’ll find it anywhere from Texas BBQ to Vietnamese Pho. 

How to Cook It:

There are many different ways to cook brisket. One of the most traditional ways is to cover it with your favorite rub and then slow smoke it until it looks like it’s about to fall apart. 

Top Sirloin

What It Is:

A top sirloin steak comes from directly below the cow’s tenderloin strip area. This means it can be tough because the meat comes from a muscular part of the cow. But that shouldn’t discourage you from trying it. This steak can be quite flavorful.  

How to Cook It:

The best way to prepare and cook top sirloin is to first brush it with olive oil and then add your favorite seasonings. This steak should be grilled, and medium rare is the best temperature to achieve optimal flavor and tenderness. 

Get the Best Cuts of Meat at Nick’s of Clinton

As you can see, there are many different cuts of meat you can choose to cook and different ways to prepare them. But you’ll want to start with high-quality meat. If you’d like help choosing the perfect cut, feel free to ask one of our butchers for assistance. Our meat counter is the centerpiece of our store! Nick’s of Clinton is always happy to help customers find the perfect items for their next family meal, barbeque, or event. Visit us today or give us a call at (301) 843-4825. 

Christmas Dinner—Choosing the Best Sides

With Christmas just around the corner, now’s the time to start planning your holiday menu if you’ll be hosting this year. At Nick’s of Clinton, we have everything you need for Christmas dinner, from the main dishes to the perfect desserts. If you’re struggling to decide which sides to serve, we have you covered with a variety of premade side dishes that just need to be popped into the oven As you ponder over what to prepare, consider this rundown of common main dishes, favorite Christmas sides, and popular desserts.

Christmas—The Main Dish

For those who aren’t vegetarians or vegans, Christmas dinner will almost always feature a meat dish as the centerpiece of the meal. 

  • Ham. A Christmas ham is one of the most traditional Christmas dishes, and can be found on tables throughout the country. It’s rumored that the tradition of serving ham for Christmas began in Germany. 
  • Turkey. If you didn’t get enough of the bird on Thanksgiving, you might choose to serve a turkey on Christmas. Other fowl are also common, especially in other countries. 
  • Prime rib. Not a pork or fowl type of person? If you want to serve something extra special, prime rib is another Christmas favorite. It’s so popular that many restaurants serving Christmas dinner will have this on their menus. 
  • Lobster. If you live in the northeastern part of the United States or are from an Italian-American family, you may choose to feature lobster or other seafood on your Christmas table. 
  • Lamb. Finally, serving lamb is a specialty that many families will choose this holiday season. Roast lamb with a pomegranate sauce may be especially delicious. 

Favorite Christmas Sides

Even if you are crazy about the main course, there’s no doubt that a Christmas dinner wouldn’t be complete without a range of sweet and savory sides. There are dozens of different sides to choose from, so we’ve put together a list of some of the best and most popular sides. 

  • Yorkshire pudding. Not really a pudding in the traditional sense, Yorkshire pudding is a British dish that is a savory, baked pudding made from flour, milk, and eggs. As a savory dish, it’s typically served before or with the main course—not after as a traditional “pudding” dessert might be. 
  • Creamed spinach. Delicious, savory, and healthy, creamed spinach is a favorite Christmas tradition on the table, and goes especially well alongside lamb or prime rib. 
  • Biscuits or rolls (or both!). The Christmas table wouldn’t be complete without some sort of bread on the table. Flaky biscuits are always a delight, although some prefer more of a traditional roll. Undecided? Why not do both? 
  • Brussel sprouts. Brussel sprouts have become much more popular in America over the past decade, as the main method of preparation has switched from boiling to baking or sauteing on a skillet. There are multiple different ways to serve brussels, including brussel sprouts baked with bacon and cheese. 
  • Cranberry sauce. Like turkey, cranberry sauce is traditionally a Thanksgiving food. However, the deep red color and the sweet and tart combination make it a favorite during Christmas, too. 
  • Yams. There are multiple yam recipes out there, including both sweet and savory options. If you did sweet yams with marshmallows for Thanksgiving, you might consider a more savory yam dish for the Christmas holiday. 
  • Roast squash. Squash is a great dish to serve that’s healthy, savory, and just starchy enough to be filling. 
  • Green beans. While a green bean casserole may not be as common during Christmas, green beans almondine is quite popular this time of year. 

Popular Christmas Dinner Desserts

Christmas dinner wouldn’t be complete without a dessert! Some of our favorite desserts include: 

  • Cheesecake. Cheesecake will be found on a large percentage of Americans’ tables this holiday, and is one of the most popular Christmastime desserts. Try a peppermint cheesecake to be extra festive. 
  • Yule log. A traditional dessert that is served in multiple parts of the world is a yule log cake. Prepared to look like a wooden yule log, this chocolate cake filled with mascarpone whipped cream is quite tasty. 
  • Christmas pudding. A Christmas pudding isn’t exactly the gelatinous pudding that you’re used to in America; instead, “Christmas pudding” is a British dessert that’s more like a sponge cake or fruitcake. While British, it’s served in many American homes during Christmas. 
  • Cookies. If you’re feeling a little whopped after all that holiday cooking and can’t fathom the idea of putting together a dessert on top of everything else, go with something simple—Christmas cookies are always a great option, and you can even buy a pack straight from the store. We won’t tell anyone. 

Get All Your Grocery Shopping Done at Nick’s of Clinton

At Nick’s of Clinton, we have everything you need for your entire Christmas meal, including your sides. Visit our location on Charles Parkway or call us with any questions at (301) 843-4825. 

Quick Meals – How to Prepare Quick Meals Now That the Kids Are Back in School

When the kids go back to school, you might think you’re going to have more time on your hands. But it usually doesn’t work out that way. Everyone’s schedule instantly gets cluttered with things like homework, sports, social outings, and the occasional family break.

As you deal with the hustle and bustle of back to school, the last thing you want is having to create a complex meal calendar. Simple is better. But you also want tasty food and a variety of options. Here are some quick meals you can prepare that are delicious and won’t take too much time.

Ravioli Casserole

If you’re looking for something simple and fast, you can’t go wrong with this recipe. It only has six ingredients and two steps.

Ingredients:

● 1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated cheese ravioli
● 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
● 3 ½ cups pasta sauce
● 2 cups small curd cottage cheese
● ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
● Fresh parsley, minced (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cook ravioli per the package directions. In a 13X9 inch baking dish (ungreased), spread 1 cup pasta sauce. Layer half the ravioli on top of the sauce, followed by 1 ¼ cups sauce, 1 cup cottage cheese, and 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Repeat. Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
2. Bake, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes until the casserole is cooked through and bubbly. Cut and serve.

Lemon Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

If you own a skillet, this lemon butter shrimp and broccoli dish is a simple and yummy meal.

Ingredients:

● 1 12-oz bag of jumbo easy peel frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined)
● 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
● 4 garlic cloves, minced
● 1 lemon, freshly juiced
● 1 lemon, sliced
● 4 tbsp unsalted butter
● 1 tbsp olive oil
● Salt and pepper
● Pinch of red pepper flakes, crushed
● 1 pouch of brown rice or quinoa

Preparation:

1. Pat and completely dry your shrimp with a paper towel.
2. Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often. Remove the broccoli and place on a plate.
3. Add 2 tbsp butter to the skillet. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper then cook in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Add the garlic cloves.
4. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet, the lemon juice, and the lemon slices. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
5. Add the broccoli back to the skillet and toss together. Serve with your choice of rice on the side.

Baked Swiss Chicken

This is another simple and tasty recipe that only has a few ingredients and steps to get you from the kitchen to the dinner table on those busy school days.

Ingredients:

● 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
● 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
● 6 slices Swiss cheese
● ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
● 1 cup crushed croutons

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Using a 13X9 inch greased baking dish, line the chicken breasts along the bottom. Combine the soup and wine in a small bowl and then pour the mixture over the chicken. Top with the cheese and sprinkle with crushed croutons.
2. Bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken temperature reads 165 degrees. Serve with your favorite side dish.

Crispy Baked Quesadillas

These baked quesadillas are delicious and a favorite of adults and kids of all ages. And you can play around with the ingredients to create something your family will love.

Ingredients:

● 3-4 8-inch flour tortillas
● 1 pound cooked turkey taco meat, spiced to your liking
● 1 14-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
● 1- 1 ½ cup salsa
● 1 ½ cup grated Mexican cheese
● Olive oil
● Shredded lettuce and sour cream for toppings

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Brush a baking sheet with some olive oil.
2. Place each tortilla on the baking sheet and fill one side with a layer of the cooked turkey, black beans, salsa, and cheese. Fold the tortilla over and brush with olive oil.
3. Bake for 8 minutes. Gently turn over and bake for 8 more minutes. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Do Your Quick Meal Shopping at Nick’s of Clinton

When you’re preparing these quick meals, you want the high-quality and most affordable ingredients. For over 50 years, Nick’s of Clinton has been delivering a full-service experience to customers throughout Southern Maryland. Our business was built on the foundation of a combination of top-level customer services and superior-quality products.

When you shop at Nick’s, we offer one-stop shopping for all your grocery needs, including a full-service meat department and deli and Nick’s signature line of products. Stop in and visit us today.