As Easter approaches, many of us are thinking about how to make this special day even more enjoyable for our loved ones. What better way to do that than with a delicious and memorable Easter lunch? In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic deviled eggs to show-stopping leg of lamb, and from sweet treats like Easter bunny-shaped sugar cookies to savory sides like braised carrots with honey and thyme, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just looking for some inspiration for a small Easter feast, these recipes are sure to bring joy and full bellies to your table. So grab your apron and get cooking – the Easter bunny is coming!
Herb-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb
Elevate your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic roasted leg of lamb, crusted with a fragrant blend of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb leg, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the lamb leg on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– 1.5-2 pounds: 30-40 minutes
– 2.5-3 pounds: 45-55 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
A sweet and savory twist on a classic ham recipe, this dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into 1-inch chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and mustard.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Brush the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pineapple chunks on top of the ham, tucking them slightly into the glaze.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the pineapple and ham.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until the ham is caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these aromatic and flavorful garlic butter roasted potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the potato cubes, minced garlic, and softened butter.
3. Toss gently until the potatoes are evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Vegetable Risotto
Celebrate the freshness of spring with this vibrant risotto dish, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and creamy Arborio rice.
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 mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the mixed spring vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the addition of fresh herbs! This recipe combines creamy yolks with a burst of flavor from parsley, chives, and dill.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon)
– Fresh chives, chopped (1 tablespoon)
– Fresh dill, chopped (1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Cut the egg whites in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the yolks. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, and dill).
6. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère Cheese
A classic comfort dish that combines the richness of butter and cream with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese, perfectly cooked potatoes take center stage in this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and grated Gruyère cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Create the scalloped potato layers: potatoes, cream mixture, repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
A bright and citrusy twist on the classic roasted asparagus recipe, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, zested (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, sprinkling with lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Easter Hot Cross Buns
Classic Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe
These sweet buns are a traditional Easter treat that is both delicious and symbolic of the season. With their distinctive cross-shaped topping, they’re sure to be a hit at any Easter celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange or lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough; shape into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place each piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Carrots with Honey and Thyme
Sweet and savory, these braised carrots are a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the carrot slices and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the honey, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This rich and creamy dip is perfect for parties or gatherings. With a flavorful combination of spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken recipe, featuring the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and herbaceous warmth.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-herb mixture all over the bird, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the freshness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, topped with crunchy pecans and a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Add sliced strawberries to the vinaigrette mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Pour the strawberry-vinaigrette mixture over the spinach leaves and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Dinner Rolls with Butter
These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a perfect accompaniment to any meal, especially when topped with melted butter. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle kneading, you’ll have a batch of freshly baked rolls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy 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 rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into desired roll shapes.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and apply egg wash if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Glazed Carrot and Parsnip Medley
This vibrant medley of carrots and parsnips is glazed to perfection, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. The sweet and savory flavors will complement a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the carrot and parsnip slices with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and brush with the honey during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese and minced garlic evenly over the sprouts.
5. Return to oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Easter Bunny-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Get ready to hop into the Easter spirit with these adorable bunny-shaped sugar cookies!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– White chocolate chips or white frosting for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use bunny-shaped cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Salmon
This refreshing recipe combines the bright flavors of citrus with the tender juiciness of grilled salmon, creating a perfect summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh citrus zest (orange, lemon, or grapefruit) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the citrus marinade over them. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Garnish with fresh citrus zest and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Classic Deviled Ham Sandwiches
A nostalgic favorite that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these deviled ham sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package deviled ham
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place two slices of bread, buttered-side down, in the pan.
4. Spread about 2 tablespoons of deviled ham on top of the bread in each sandwich.
5. Add a lettuce leaf and tomato slice on top of the ham.
6. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the ham is heated through.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chocolate Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes
Celebrate Easter with these adorable cupcakes that resemble a nest filled with chocolate Easter eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– White frosting and yellow or orange colored sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in milk and mix until smooth.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
8. Drizzle melted chocolate over batter to resemble an Easter egg nest.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating with white frosting and sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these 20 delicious Easter lunch recipes! From classic dishes like herb-crusted roast leg of lamb, honey glazed ham with pineapple, and garlic butter roasted potatoes, to more unique offerings like citrus-marinated grilled salmon and chocolate Easter egg nest cupcakes. You’ll also find a variety of side dishes, including spring vegetable risotto, deviled eggs with fresh herbs, and parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or something new and exciting, there’s something for everyone in this collection of festive Easter lunch recipes.
