Easter is just around the corner, and you’re probably thinking about how to make this year’s celebration even more special. One way to do that is by serving a delicious and memorable Easter dinner that your family and friends will cherish for years to come. To help you plan the perfect menu, we’ve gathered 20 festive Easter dinner recipes that are sure to impress.
From classic deviled eggs and roasted lamb to savory braised lamb shanks and sweet strawberry spinach salad, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Easter main course or a side dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most mouthwatering Easter dinner recipes out there, complete with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips from our expert chefs.
So go ahead and get started on planning your Easter feast today! Let’s dive into these 20 festive Easter dinner recipes that are sure to make your holiday celebration truly unforgettable.
Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your Sunday roast with this aromatic and flavorful leg of lamb recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the leg of lamb all over with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the meat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the leg of lamb on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time:
– 1.5-2 pounds leg of lamb: 40-50 minutes
– 3-4 pounds leg of lamb: 60-70 minutes
Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple and Cloves
Sweet and savory, this classic ham recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 2 whole cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and mustard.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish, scored side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle garlic and pineapple chunks over the ham.
6. Insert 2 whole cloves into the ham, spaced evenly apart.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Classic Deviled Eggs with a Tangy Twist
Classic Deviled Eggs with a Tangy Twist
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of tangy pickled mustard seeds and a hint of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or paprika (optional)
– 2 tablespoons pickled mustard seeds, finely chopped
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 they’re well broken up.
4. Stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Stir in chopped chives or paprika, if using.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
7. Sprinkle the tops with pickled mustard seeds.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving for maximum flavor and texture.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère Cheese
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and satisfying recipe, featuring tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potato slices, salt, and pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Arrange half of the potatoes in the prepared dish.
5. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese and pour over half of the heavy cream.
6. Repeat layers: potatoes, cheese, and cream.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Elevate your asparagus game with this bright and citrusy side dish, perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer, leaving some space between each spear.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, then sprinkle with garlic and lemon juice.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Traditional Hot Cross Buns with Spiced Glaze
A classic Easter tradition, hot cross buns are sweet and spicy breads marked with a cross on top. This recipe yields soft, fragrant buns with a sticky glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange or lemon zest
– Spiced glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
7. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
Spiced Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange or lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Brush the glaze over the hot cross buns while they’re still warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Garlic Butter Herb Rolls Fresh from the Oven
These buttery, garlicky, and herb-infused rolls are a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With a hint of savory flavor and a soft, fluffy texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, flour, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Easter Brisket with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your Easter celebration with a tender and flavorful brisket, slow-cooked to perfection and paired with sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the brisket from the pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onions to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add beef broth to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Return the brisket to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours or overnight
Spring Pea and Mint Soup with Crème Fraîche
As the weather warms up, this refreshing soup is a perfect way to welcome spring. This creamy and revitalizing soup combines the sweetness of peas, the freshness of mint, and the richness of crème fraîche.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crème fraîche, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine peas, chicken broth, and butter. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the peas are tender.
2. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Purée the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
4. Serve hot, topped with crème fraîche if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme
This sweet and savory recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, paired with a hint of honey and thyme. Perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and thyme until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. During the last 5 minutes of roasting, drizzle honey over the carrots.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easter Quiche Lorraine with a Flaky Crust
Celebrate Easter with this classic French quiche, filled with the richness of eggs, cream, and Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup diced ham or bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves 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 with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, Gruyère cheese, and diced ham or bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Allow the quiche to cool before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Potato Salad with Dijon Mustard
This iconic potato salad recipe combines the comfort of tender potatoes, tangy Dijon mustard, and a hint of sweetness to create a timeless side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water, cover, and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and dill. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in white vinegar to balance flavors.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine Reduction
A classic French dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this braised lamb shank recipe is fall-off-the-bone tender and richly flavored.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
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 garlic to pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Start your day off right with this sweet and savory salad, bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups baby spinach leaves
– 2 cups sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons poppy seed dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Poppy Seed Dressing:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle poppy seed dressing over the salad, tossing to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Crispy Skin
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken, infused with the zest of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep the skin crispy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with a Golden Crust
Elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and golden-brown dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Mix until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot the top with the softened butter.
4. Pour in the whole milk, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic roasted vegetable, this recipe elevates the humble Brussels sprout to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and garlic until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together balsamic glaze and honey in a small bowl.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the balsamic glaze mixture.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easter Pavlova with Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream
Celebrate Easter with a light and airy pavlova, topped with fresh berries and whipped cream. This classic dessert is perfect for springtime gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until combined.
4. Fold in softened butter until no white streaks remain.
5. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet to form a circle.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
7. Allow pavlova to cool completely.
8. Top with fresh berries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Glazed Carrots with Brown Sugar and Butter
Sweet Glazed Carrots with Brown Sugar and Butter
Sweeten up your side dishes with this simple yet indulgent recipe for glazed carrots, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, brown sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange carrot slices in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Vegetable Risotto with Peas and Asparagus
Start your spring evening off right with this vibrant and flavorful risotto, bursting with fresh peas, asparagus, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until absorbed.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until absorbed before adding more.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in peas and asparagus. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove from heat; season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved ones this Easter with these delicious dinner recipes! From classic deviled eggs and honey-glazed ham to roasted lamb and spring vegetable risotto, there’s something for everyone. Try braised lamb shanks with red wine reduction or cheesy au gratin potatoes for a satisfying main course. Don’t forget the sides – creamy scalloped potatoes, garlic butter herb rolls, and roasted asparagus are sure to please. And for dessert, indulge in Easter pavlova with fresh berries and whipped cream or glazed carrots with brown sugar and butter. These 20 festive recipes will make your Easter dinner unforgettable!
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