Easter is a time of celebration and togetherness, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a delicious feast? From breakfast to dinner, Easter offers an opportunity to indulge in a variety of traditional dishes. In this article, I will explore the top 20 traditional Easter dishes that are simple and easy to prepare. I have categorized them into five breakfast ideas, five brunch ideas, five dinner ideas, and five side dishes to bring to the dinner table. You can click on the links to see detailed instructions.
1. Easter Breakfast Ideas
1.1. Classic Hot Cross Buns
Hot cross buns are an Easter breakfast staple. These spiced, sweet buns are traditionally made with dried fruits and marked with a cross, symbolizing the crucifixion. Serve them warm with a slather of butter or your favorite jam for a delightful start to the day.
1.2. Fluffy Pancakes
Start Easter morning with a stack of fluffy pancakes. Add a festive touch by incorporating pastel-colored sprinkles or chocolate chips into the batter. Serve with maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful and indulgent breakfast treat.
1.3. Spinach and Cheese Quiche
Whip up a savory spinach and cheese quiche for a protein-packed Easter breakfast. The combination of tender spinach, creamy cheese, and a flaky crust creates a delicious and satisfying dish. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside a fresh green salad.
1.4. Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs
Elevate your Easter breakfast with a luxurious combination of smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. The creamy, fluffy eggs pair perfectly with the smoky, salty salmon. Serve with toasted bagels or crusty bread for a complete and decadent meal.
1.5. Fresh Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad is a must-have for any Easter breakfast spread. Combine a variety of seasonal fruits such as berries, melons, and citrus for a burst of vibrant flavors. For an extra touch, drizzle the salad with a honey-lime dressing or sprinkle with chopped mint leaves.
2. Easter Brunch Ideas
2.1. Eggs Benedict
Impress your guests with a classic Eggs Benedict. Poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and creamy hollandaise sauce atop toasted English muffins create a decadent brunch dish. Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach for a complete and elegant meal.
2.2. Quiche Lorraine
Indulge in a timeless Quiche Lorraine for your Easter brunch. This French-inspired dish features a buttery pastry crust filled with a savory mixture of bacon, Swiss cheese, and a rich custard. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside a fresh green salad.
2.3. Spring Vegetable Frittata
Celebrate the flavors of spring with a vibrant vegetable frittata. Sauté a medley of seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, peas, and cherry tomatoes, then pour in a mixture of beaten eggs and cheese. Bake until golden and set for a colorful and hearty brunch option.
2.4. Smoked Salmon and Bagel Platter
Create a delightful DIY bagel platter with an assortment of bagels, cream cheese, and various toppings. Include smoked salmon, sliced tomatoes, red onions, capers, and fresh herbs. Let your guests build their own personalized bagel creations for a fun and interactive brunch experience.
2.5. Spring Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Add a fresh and vibrant salad to your Easter brunch spread. Combine mixed greens, seasonal vegetables, and tangy goat cheese. Drizzle with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a burst of flavor. Serve as a side dish or as a light main course.
3. Easter Dinner Ideas
3.1. Roast Leg of Lamb
A classic centerpiece for Easter dinner is a tender and flavorful roast leg of lamb. Rub the meat with herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then roast it to perfection. Serve with roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty and traditional Easter feast.
3.2. Honey-Glazed Ham
Another popular choice for Easter dinner is a succulent honey-glazed ham. Score the ham, then brush it with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and spices. Roast until caramelized and delicious. The sweet and savory flavors will be a hit with your guests.
3.3. Herb-Roasted Chicken
If you prefer poultry, an herb-roasted chicken is a fantastic option for Easter dinner. Rub the chicken with a blend of herbs, garlic, and butter, then roast it until golden and juicy. Serve with roasted root vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
3.4. Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
For a lighter and flavorful option, consider baking a whole salmon fillet. Season it with lemon juice, dill, and a touch of olive oil, then bake until flaky. Serve with a creamydill sauce and a side of steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables for a healthy and delicious Easter dinner.
3.5. Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, stuffed peppers are a great choice. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, vegetables, and cheese, then bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden. Serve with a fresh salad or a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
4. Easter Side Dishes to Bring to Dinner
4.1. Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus makes for a simple and elegant side dish. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
4.2. Scalloped Potatoes
Indulge in creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes as a comforting side dish. Layer thinly sliced potatoes with a rich béchamel sauce and grated cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats or even as a standalone vegetarian option.
4.3. Glazed Carrots
Add a touch of sweetness to your Easter dinner with glazed carrots. Cook baby carrots in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon until they are tender and coated in a shiny glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots will shine through, making it a delightful side dish.
4.4. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that complements any Easter feast. Sauté fresh spinach with garlic and shallots, then stir in cream and Parmesan cheese until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy. It’s a delicious way to incorporate some greens into your meal.
4.5. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that can also be served as a side dish. Hard-boil eggs, then remove the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Spoon the mixture back into the egg whites and garnish with paprika or fresh herbs for a festive touch.
Easter is a wonderful time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious food. These top 20 traditional Easter dishes provide a variety of options for breakfast, brunch, dinner, and side dishes. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or having a cozy meal at home, these simple and easy recipes will make your Easter celebration truly special
