Leftover Easter ham? Make panini with ham and smoked Gruyere

Easter is done, but the ham isn't. What next?

Ham leftovers are an easy way to crank out fast meals that pack tons of flavor. Just be sure to go easy on the salt. Most hams are cured and brined, which crank up the sodium. Taste the finished dish before adding more salt.

A frittata is an easy choice. Cut the ham into small chunks, then saute with diced onion and bell peppers. When the ham is lightly browned, pour several beaten eggs over it. When the eggs have set on the bottom, top it with cheese and broiler for several minutes.

Or try a ham and cheese... on pasta. Toss finely chopped ham, grated fontina (or other good melting) cheese with warm pasta and just a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water for an all-but-instant mac and cheese. A splash of hot sauce give a nice finish.

Ham also is delicious used in place of chicken in a basic chicken noodle soup. And for a nod to the classic sandwich, you could even top the soup with croutons made from cubed rye bread drizzled with olive oil and toasted.

Or if you'd rather stick with an actual sandwich, try this delicious culture clash. Ham and cheese are paired with thinly sliced pear and mango chutney inside a gently toasted and pressed panini.