As the Easter bunny hops his way into our hearts, we’re hopping to the kitchen to cook up some delicious and festive dishes for our loved ones. What better way to celebrate the season than with a mouth-watering Easter lunch that’s sure to impress? In this special edition, we’ve rounded up 20 scrumptious recipes that’ll make your Easter table shine. From classic comfort foods like braised lamb shanks and scalloped potatoes to fresh spring salads and citrus-marinated grilled salmon, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand feast, these recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. So go ahead, get creative, and let the Easter magic begin!
Read on to discover our top picks for this year’s Easter lunch…
Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
A classic roasted leg of lamb gets a flavor boost from aromatic herbs, making it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. This recipe yields a tender, juicy result with a savory aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb and rub it in with your hands or a spatula.
5. Place the leg of lamb on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
6. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple and Cloves
A sweet and savory twist on traditional glazed ham, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the tanginess of pineapple and the warmth of cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup pineapple rings, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Sprinkle chopped pineapple rings over the top of the ham.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Spring Vegetable Quiche with Asparagus and Peas
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant quiche filled with tender asparagus, sweet peas, and creamy eggs. Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s a delicious way to showcase the season’s best vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, peas, bell peppers, onions)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (parsley, dill) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange spring vegetables on the bottom of the pie crust.
5. Pour egg mixture over the vegetables.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly across the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere and Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and flavorful recipe, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting main course. The combination of tender potatoes, nutty Gruyère, and savory thyme is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (115g) Gruyère cheese, grated
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and arrange in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top of potatoes with butter, sprinkle with Gruyère and thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika and Chives
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the subtle smokiness of paprika and the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
4. Add mayonnaise, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle chopped chives on top of each deviled egg.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required; simply assemble and serve chilled.
Classic Easter Bread with Raisins and Almonds
Elevate your Easter celebration with this traditional Italian bread, flavored with sweet raisins and crunchy almonds. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Add warm water, milk, oil, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in raisins and almonds.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
6. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Carrots with Honey and Fresh Herbs
Roasted Carrots with Honey and Fresh Herbs: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, paired with a hint of honey and freshness from herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this roasted carrot recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Add chopped fresh herbs and toss again to combine.
4. Spread carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Potato Salad with Dill and Mustard
A refreshing twist on the classic potato salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the brightness of fresh dill and a tangy kick from mustard. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Add the cooled potatoes to the yogurt mixture and toss until they’re well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine and Herbs
Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine and Herbs: A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, rosemary, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken dish with this flavorful and moist spinach and feta stuffed chicken breast recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, while garlic butter adds a rich and savory flavor to this delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. If using red pepper flakes, add them to the mixture and toss again.
4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cake with Fresh Berries
Lemon Ricotta Cake with Fresh Berries: A Bright and Delightful Dessert!
This moist and creamy lemon ricotta cake is the perfect canvas for a burst of fresh berries. The combination of tangy lemons, sweet ricotta, and juicy berries will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before topping with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
Classic Comfort Food: Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
This recipe is a timeless favorite that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for creamy, cheesy goodness. With the addition of a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s elevated to a whole new level of comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Spring Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful salad, featuring sweet strawberries, tangy goat cheese, and a medley of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the greens.
3. Crumble the goat cheese over the strawberries.
4. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the salad.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cooking)
Glazed Carrot and Parsnip Medley
This vibrant medley of carrots and parsnips is elevated by a sweet and sticky glaze, perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite main course. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful harmony that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots and parsnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the vegetables roast, combine honey, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Remove the vegetables from the oven and brush with the glaze. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easter Bunny-Shaped Sugar Cookies
These soft-baked sugar cookies are shaped like adorable bunnies, making them the perfect treat for your Easter celebration. With a simple dough recipe and a little creative shaping, you’ll have a batch of cute cookies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use bunny-shaped cookie cutters or a glass to create the shapes.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
Slow-Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe
Simplify your meal prep with this sweet and tangy chicken recipe, perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add the chicken and stir to coat.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
4. Check the chicken’s tenderness after 6 hours; if not tender, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Serve hot and enjoy!
Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of fresh asparagus with the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Hot Cross Buns with Spices and Icing
Classic Hot Cross Buns with Spices and Icing
These sweet buns are a beloved Easter tradition, filled with spices and topped with a sticky glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces and shape into buns.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Confectioners’ Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix glaze ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over warm buns and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing citrus-marinated grilled salmon recipe, perfect for a light and flavorful dinner. The combination of zesty orange, tangy lemon, and sweet honey creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add salmon fillets to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove salmon from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious Easter lunch with these 20 festive recipes! From classic dishes like braised lamb shanks and roasted leg of lamb to sweet treats like lemon ricotta cake and easter bunny-shaped sugar cookies, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy spring-inspired quiches and salads, savory glazed hams and honey-glazed carrots, or try your hand at baking hot cross buns and macaroni and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just want to impress your loved ones with a special meal, these recipes are sure to delight.
