Easter gatherings often conjure images of fresh blooms, laughter, and a table overflowing with colorful dishes. The season breathes new life into traditional comforts while welcoming the lighter flavors of spring.
I’ve pulled together 70 recipes to help you craft an unforgettable spread—whether you’re hosting brunch or serving dinner for a crowd. From showstopping mains to delicate sweets, this list brims with celebration-ready ideas.
Pick and choose your favorites to build a menu that suits your family’s tastes and brings a little spring magic to the table.
1. Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Sticky-sweet and savory, this succulent ham features a caramelized crust that crackles under your knife. Brown sugar, mustard, and a touch of warmth from spices create a holiday centerpiece as charming as it is delicious.
Families across generations have welcomed this aromatic showstopper to their Easter table, letting the ham rest under a sweet glaze that whispers of spring and celebration.
2. Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Envision tender lamb coated with a fragrant blend of rosemary and thyme, roasted until pink and juicy. Each rib emerges as a chic, fuss-free main that elevates any festive gathering.
Origins trace back to rustic European feasts, but the vibrant herbs speak to the season’s freshness. A single bite reveals why it’s become a luxurious Easter favorite.
3. Lemon-Garlic Roasted Chicken
Simple, citrusy, and undeniably cozy, this roast chicken embraces the sunny brightness of lemon alongside savory garlic. Drizzle the pan juices over the bird for an instant sauce that pairs with almost any side.
It’s a go-to choice for those seeking a crowd-pleasing main that doesn’t break the bank. The crisp skin and juicy interior reflect the essence of a cheerful, springy Easter.
4. Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
For a light yet indulgent main course, Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is an exceptional choice. Flaky salmon fillets bathed in a garlic butter sauce that seeps into every pink layer. The aroma of melting butter and fresh herbs announces a light yet luxurious entrée.
In many coastal locales, salmon has symbolized renewal and nourishment. This recipe keeps things effortless while treating guests to a rich, buttery experience that still feels refreshingly light.
5. Honey Mustard Pork Tenderloin
This Honey Mustard Pork Tenderloin offers a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout for any Easter dinner. Tender pork enveloped in a tangy honey mustard glaze, then roasted to a mouthwatering blush of pink. You’ll love how the sweetness balances the slight zing of mustard.
Popular in modern gatherings, this dish fuses sweet simplicity with a little flair. The sticky, glossy exterior will spark conversation—and perhaps second helpings.
6. Mushroom Wellington
Layers of savory mushroom duxelles cradled in flaky puff pastry, offering a vegetarian main with major wow factor. Its hearty, earthy profile pleasantly surprises even devout meat-lovers.
An homage to the classic Beef Wellington, this plant-based twist boasts equal elegance. Slice through the crisp pastry shell to discover the fragrant mushrooms waiting inside.
7. Braised Lamb Shanks
Braised Lamb Shanks offer an indulgent, comforting dish perfect for a cozy Easter gathering. Fall-off-the-bone lamb slow-simmered in aromatic herbs and red wine. The resulting sauce blankets the tender shanks in a comforting, full-bodied embrace.
On colder spring evenings, nothing beats that cozy, soul-warming moment of mopping up sauce with fresh bread. Lamb shanks might not be the flashiest dish, but their gentle, simmered magic is pure comfort.
8. Deviled Eggs With Chives
A creamy yolk filling spiked with mustard and mayo, nestled back into bright white egg halves. Chopped chives dot the top, offering a fresh, oniony twist.
Though deviled eggs can appear at any gathering, their springtime presence feels extra fitting. The pop of green chives complements Easter’s pastel palette and lively spirit.
9. Spring Pea Soup
Vibrant peas blended into a silky puree with hints of fresh mint or basil. The bright color and taste capture the essence of new growth.
This soup’s gentle sweetness and smooth consistency delight the senses while keeping things light. Serve in small cups for an elegant starter that primes your palate for heartier mains.
10. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Simple yet sophisticated, Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is a delightful starter. Tender asparagus spears embraced by salty prosciutto, then lightly roasted until crisp. Each spear brings smoky, green flavors mingling with the delicate saltiness of cured ham.
This appetizer has roots in European bistros, but it’s easy to imagine it on any spring table. People love nibbling on the crisp tips that whisper of orchard breezes and blossoming gardens.
11. Carrot And Ginger Soup
Earthy carrots swirl with zesty ginger, forming a bright orange soup that wakes up your taste buds. A dollop of cream or yogurt on top adds a hint of richness.
Its comforting warmth nods to the final chill of winter, but that sunny hue and peppery undertone celebrate spring’s arrival. Carrots and ginger unite for a soothing start to the meal.
12. Mini Quiches
Buttery pastry shells cradle a creamy egg filling dotted with ham, veggies, or cheese. These bite-sized morsels let your guests explore different flavors in one sitting.
Though quiche often headlines brunch, mini versions are portable and undeniably cute. You’ll love how they vanish from the platter almost as soon as you place them down.
13. Smoked Salmon Crostini
Crunchy baguette slices topped with a smear of cream cheese, ribbons of smoked salmon, and capers for a briny kick. A sprinkling of fresh dill seals the deal.
Combining tangy, creamy, and smoky flavors, these crostini deliver sophistication with little effort. They’re an easy, yet refined appetizer reminiscent of lazy Sunday mornings by the sea.
14. Arugula And Strawberry Salad
Peppery arugula sets the stage for sweet, juicy strawberries, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. The sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or walnuts adds crunch and tang.
This salad captures spring’s bounty in each forkful—juicy berries offset by the green’s spicy snap. A swirl of balsamic might be the finishing flourish you never knew you needed.
15. Scalloped Potatoes
Layers of thinly sliced spuds cloaked in a creamy sauce, topped with a golden crust. They emerge from the oven soft in the middle, crisp on top—pure potato heaven.
A staple at many holiday tables, they carry a sense of tradition and indulgence. Expect guests to fight over the corners where the sauce caramelizes, forming a heavenly crunch.
16. Roasted Baby Carrots With Honey
Slightly sweet and glossy, these caramelized carrots taste as though they’ve been kissed by spring sunshine. Honey coats them in a gentle glaze that amplifies their natural sugars.
The tenderness of baby carrots meets the sticky-sweet allure of honey, forming a no-fuss side. A dash of fresh thyme or parsley can add a final flourish.
17. Herbed Couscous
Fluffy couscous infused with lemon zest, parsley, and perhaps a few toasted pine nuts. The grains soak up any flavor you toss at them, creating a refreshing yet satisfying dish.
Set it aside larger mains as a lively alternative to plain rice. Each forkful leaves behind a zippy citrus note that pairs beautifully with richer, more robust entrées.
18. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Crisp-tipped asparagus spears sprinkled with Parmesan and roasted until tender. The cheese melts into a salty, slightly crunchy topping that merges with asparagus’s grassy flavor.
Springtime marks asparagus’s peak, so it’s the perfect moment to show them off. Let their bright green color and nutty Parmesan tang do the talking.
19. Creamy Leek Gratin
Thinly sliced leeks baked in a creamy sauce that highlights their gentle onion-like taste. The top browns and bubbles, forming an irresistible crust.
Often overshadowed by potato gratins, leek gratin is a sophisticated surprise. Its delicate sweetness feels like a breath of fresh air next to more robust dishes.
20. Glazed Pearl Onions
Small pearls of onion simmer in a light sauce until they glisten. The result is a mellow sweetness that melts in your mouth.
This classic side brings an old-world charm to the plate, evoking candlelit dinners of yore. It’s the small details, like these glossy onions, that can make a holiday spread feel complete.
21. Green Bean Almondine
Tender green beans sautéed with sliced almonds for a crunchy, buttery finish. The entire dish glows with a healthy, fresh taste that fits any springtime meal.
Originally French-inspired, “almondine” adds a toasty flair that keeps the beans interesting. Serve them in a wide bowl so everyone can admire those crisp, emerald shafts topped with golden almonds.
22. Buttery Dinner Rolls
Soft, golden rolls with a light, airy crumb. They puff up in the oven until your kitchen smells like a warm bakery.
Few things match the satisfaction of tearing a fresh roll open and watching steam escape. Slather on some sweet butter, and enjoy this small, fluffy delight that signals holiday hospitality.
23. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
Creamy, bubbling, and just indulgent enough. Cauliflower florets are cuddled in a velvety cheese sauce, then baked until bubbling and lightly browned on top. It’s a luscious way to coax out cauliflower’s hidden sweetness.
Suitable for those who want a comforting, slightly indulgent side that still hints at spring’s lighter vibe. One scoop easily converts cauliflower skeptics into fans.
24. Lemon Roasted Potatoes
Crisp-edged potatoes tossed in lemon juice and herbs, roasting to a bright, tangy finish. A soft interior meets a zesty crust that wakes up your taste buds.
Your mouth waters the moment you get a whiff of citrus mingling with roasted starch. It’s an unexpectedly simple yet game-changing spin on spuds.
25. Pea And Mint Risotto
Creamy arborio rice studded with fresh peas, lifted by the herbal perfume of mint. Each bite is a comforting swirl of green sweetness underlaid by that classic risotto richness.
Mint might seem like an odd choice at first, but it adds a breezy dimension reminiscent of a spring garden. This risotto weds hearty and bright in a way that feels perfectly seasonal.
26. Spring Grain Salad With Asparagus
A base of quinoa or farro tossed with sautéed asparagus, tender peas, and a lemony dressing. This salad is all about texture—chewy grains and crisp veggies creating a lovely crunch.
If you add some goat cheese or shaved Parmesan, prepare for a symphony of tang and earthiness. One forkful bursts with nature’s best color palette.
27. Roasted Beet And Goat Cheese Salad
Deep red roasted beets contrasting with creamy white goat cheese. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with a citrus or balsamic dressing.
It’s a dish for the eyes as much as the palate—vibrant jewel-tones that signal a celebration. Whether you serve it on a bed of greens or alone, it’s guaranteed to wow.
28. Fennel And Orange Salad
Crisp, anise-scented fennel meets sweet, juicy orange segments. The result is a palate-cleanser that feels simultaneously bold and delicate.
Toss in a handful of olives or shaved Parmesan for complexity. Each bite offers an invigorating pop, cutting through heavier fare with refreshing zeal.
29. Warm Potato and Dill Salad
Waxy potatoes bathed in a light vinaigrette, sprinkled with dill, then warmed just enough to meld flavors. The herbal note of dill stands out, brightening each bite.
This version ditches mayo, focusing on tangy, herbaceous elements. A comforting but modern approach that balances heavier mains with a subtle lift.
30. Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Paper-thin brussels sprouts drizzled with a vinaigrette, maybe crowned with crunchy toasted nuts or ribbons of Parmesan. The raw sprouts keep their crispness for a refreshing crunch.
Unlike cooked brussels sprouts, these maintain a sweet, cabbagy snap. It’s an unexpected way to feature this cold-weather veggie while celebrating the fresh vibes of spring.
31. Rainbow Carrot Slaw
Multi-colored carrots shredded into a bright slaw, tossed in a gentle dressing spiked with citrus or vinegar. Slightly sweet and tangy, it boasts a playful crunch.
Its confetti-like appearance delights the eye, and the subtle sweetness of carrots grounds the dish. Perfect for adding a splash of color to the Easter lineup.
32. Hot Cross Buns
Spiced, yeast-raised buns dotted with currants or raisins, each topped with a symbolic cross of icing or dough. They radiate sweet warmth and tradition around Good Friday and Easter.
The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg drifting through the kitchen conjures centuries of holiday memories. Tearing one open still feels like a small, comforting ritual.
33. Braided Easter Bread
Lightly sweet with pastel eggs tucked inside, Braided Easter Bread is a visually stunning addition to your Easter table. A lightly sweet dough often woven into a braid, sometimes adorned with pastel-dyed eggs. This showpiece bread is as pretty as it is delicious.
Its roots trace back to European Easter traditions, but each culture puts its own spin on the braiding and decorations. The result is a festive loaf that begs to be shared.
34. Cheddar Chive Biscuits
Flaky biscuits enriched by sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Each buttery layer reveals pockets of molten cheese and bright herbal hints.
Serve them warm to highlight the glorious melding of cheese and greens. They’re an easy side to round out any Easter menu with a little savory flair.
35. Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
A moist loaf cake beaming with lemon zest, speckled by poppy seeds that add a subtle crunch. Often drizzled with a tangy glaze that mirrors the loaf’s citrus essence.
One bite is all it takes to channel the sunny burst of spring. It’s a perfect companion to morning coffee or afternoon tea when you crave something fresh and spirited.
36. Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
Tender rolls stuck together in a single pan, brushed with garlic butter between each layer. The joy lies in tearing off piece after piece of fragrant, buttery bread.
It’s a communal treat that says “gather around and share,” essential for big gatherings. Few scents top that of fresh garlic bread wafting through the house.
37. Honey Butter Cornbread
Golden squares of cornbread sweetened by honey and softened by a swirl of butter. The crumb is moist, and the edges develop a tempting crunch.
Though it hints at Southern roots, this side thrives in any Easter meal, bridging sweet and savory preferences. Serve it warm with an extra dab of honey to highlight its rustic charm.
38. Lemon Tart
A crumbly, buttery crust bearing a bright lemon custard that’s equal parts tangy and sweet. You’ll cherish the silky filling that gently melts on your tongue.
This dessert never fails to deliver a sunny punch of flavor, an ideal finish to a feast. Powdered sugar sprinkled on top transforms it into a dainty showstopper.
39. Coconut Cake
Fluffy layers frosted with coconut cream make the Coconut Cake just perfect. Tall, fluffy layers of cake cloaked in coconut frosting and crowned with flaked coconut. Each slice feels like a tropical cloud with a gentle chew.
Coconut cake frequently appears at Southern celebrations, offering a retro charm that can’t be denied. The luscious white layers mirror the hopeful vibe of spring blooms.
40. Strawberry Shortcake
Tall, fluffy layers of cake cloaked in coconut frosting and crowned with flaked coconut. Each slice feels like a tropical cloud with a gentle chew.
Coconut cake frequently appears at Southern celebrations, offering a retro charm that can’t be denied. The luscious white layers mirror the hopeful vibe of spring blooms.
41. Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
A moist, spice-laden cake studded with shredded carrots and often walnuts or raisins. Cream cheese frosting drapes the top, adding tang and smoothness.
It’s a perennial spring favorite, perhaps due to the sweetness of carrots meeting the aromatic swirl of cinnamon. Each forkful reminds you why it’s an Easter classic.
42. Pavlova With Fresh Berries
A crisp meringue shell that cracks under your fork, revealing a marshmallow-like interior. Topped with whipped cream and juicy berries, it’s a textural wonderland.
Originating in the Southern Hemisphere, pavlova’s airy nature suits spring’s lightness. It’s a dreamy swirl of sweetness and tang, perfect for finishing a big meal.
43. Rhubarb Crisp
Tart rhubarb sprinkled with sugar, crowned by a crumbly topping of oats and brown sugar, then baked until bubbly. The vibrant pink filling adds a pop of color against golden crumbs.
Rhubarb’s tang marries well with the sweet crumble, offering a simple comfort that resonates with old-fashioned cooking. Top it with ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.
44. Berry Trifle
Layers of cake, fruit, and whipped cream stacked in a glass bowl for ultimate visual appeal. Each spoonful delivers a burst of sweet berry juice, creamy custard, and soft cake.
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure dessert—you can mix strawberries, raspberries, or even blackberries. The final effect is colorful, festive, and impossible to resist.
45. Chocolate Nest Cupcakes
Fluffy chocolate cupcakes crowned by frosting crafted into nest-like shapes and adorned with candy eggs. They blend playful holiday spirit with rich cocoa flavor.
Kids adore helping decorate these bird’s nests. The result is a lighthearted treat, reminiscent of egg hunts and spring’s new beginnings.
46. Mini Lemon Cheesecakes
Individual cheesecakes baked in muffin tins, brightened by lemon zest for a fresh tang. A crumbly graham crust lines the bottom, accentuating the creamy filling.
They’re bite-sized bursts of citrus that feel both rich and light. Guests appreciate having their own personal dessert to savor one spoonful at a time.
47. Raspberry Almond Tart
A crisp, buttery pastry cradles a frangipane filling dotted with fresh raspberries. The almond essence and berry sweetness converge in a harmonious swirl.
Once baked, it emerges golden and glistening, tempting you with its floral sweetness. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant finale.
48. Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Two classics merge: deviled eggs meet creamy potato salad. Chopped egg, a tangy dressing, and tender spuds create a party-ready side that’s both comforting and inventive.
It’s a time-saver for those who crave more variety with fewer dishes. Expect it to vanish swiftly once it’s unveiled on the buffet table.
49. Ham And Cheese Sliders
Sweet rolls layered with ham, melty cheese, and a tangy mustard glaze. Pop them in the oven until the cheese oozes and the rolls develop a subtle crust.
They’re crowd-pleasers that require minimal effort, perfect for feeding a group in a cozy, informal setting. A single batch can spark memories of family potlucks and weekend gatherings.
50. Spinach And Artichoke Dip
A warm, velvety dip combining spinach, artichokes, and plenty of melted cheese. Scooped up with crackers or baguette slices, it’s the appetizer everyone rallies around.
The earthy spinach and bright artichokes offset the creamy base, forming a surprisingly balanced indulgence. Prepare to see guests gather at the dip bowl repeatedly.
51. Cucumber Sandwiches
Thin cucumber slices, a light smear of butter or cream cheese, and crustless bread. This tea-party staple is refreshing, delicate, and refined enough for any Easter brunch.
They offer a gentle crispness and mild flavor—ideal as a palate cleanser between richer courses. A few on a platter can bring a classy, old-world touch to modern gatherings.
52. Baked Brie With Apricot Jam
A round of Brie wrapped in puff pastry or baked solo, then topped with sweet jam or preserves. Once cut into, molten cheese spills, blending with sticky fruit.
It’s an easy showstopper that adds an air of sophistication without heavy labor. The combination of savory Brie and sugary jam ensures instant elegance.
53. Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil threaded on skewers, often finished with balsamic glaze. The playful format delivers the classic Italian trio in neat, poppable bites.
They’re a nod to vibrant, fresh produce and balanced flavors—perfect for bridging brunch and dinner. Guests can’t resist plucking a skewer as they mingle and admire the spring table.or Easter.
54. Pimiento Cheese Dip
A Southern classic that marries grated cheddar with diced pimientos and a creamy binder. Its peppery, tangy, and cheddar-rich flavors make it the life of the party.
Spread on crackers or scooped up with fresh veggies, it’s a breezy route to full-bodied taste. Expect chatter about how it reminds folks of picnics and porch swings.
55. Asparagus And Gruyère Tart
Buttery puff pastry lined with asparagus spears and a sprinkling of gruyère. The quick oven bake yields a crisp crust and tender, cheesy asparagus.
Its vivid green stripes look so springlike you’ll almost hesitate to cut it. Each flakey, savory bite proves just how effortless and elegant brunch can be.
56. Hash Brown Casserole
Shredded potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, studded with cheese and sometimes diced onions. The crispy top offers a crunchy contrast to the soft interior.
It’s a warming, fill-you-up dish that’s simple yet soul-nourishing, especially for bigger Easter crowds. No one can resist that toasted, golden crust.
57. Baked French Toast
Cubed bread soaked in a vanilla custard, then baked to form a sweet, pudding-like center and a crisp surface. The top might be dusted with cinnamon or brown sugar.
Easter morning calls for something special, and this hits the mark with minimal fuss. Drizzle it with maple syrup for ultimate comfort that melts away any chilly spring morning.
58. Ham And Spinach Strata
Layer torn bread, ham, spinach, and cheese in a baking dish, then drench it all in an egg mixture. Let it rest so the bread soaks up the liquid before baking into a soft, savory loaf.
The result is a hearty dish that merges breakfast meats with fluffy bread. Slicing through reveals pockets of bright spinach and smoky ham—a brunch delight for sure.
59. Eggs Florentine
A lighter spin on Eggs Benedict, swapping ham for spinach. Poached eggs rest on an English muffin, bathed in glossy hollandaise sauce.
It feels refined yet approachable, pairing runny yolks with tangy sauce in a delightful harmony. When you carve into it, the yolk merges with the sauce, reminding everyone that mealtime can be artful.
60. Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Fluffy pancakes imbued with lemon zest and creamy ricotta, capturing a sunny, fresh flavor. Topped with fruit or a drizzle of honey, they provide a bright start to the day.
The ricotta keeps them tender inside while the citrus lifts each bite. It’s like breathing in pure spring air, one pancake at a time.
61. Strawberry Lemonade Punch
A chilled blend of fresh strawberries, tangy lemon, and fizzy soda or sparkling water. Its vibrant pink hue and fizzy sweetness instantly evoke springtime festivity.
Set a bowl of this punch at the table, and your gathering feels complete. Kids and adults alike scoop up ladlefuls, smiling at the burst of fruity delight.
62. Sparkling Mint Limeade
Refreshing and alcohol-optional, Sparkling Mint Limeade is a delightful and invigorating. A thirst-quenching beverage combining freshly squeezed lime juice, mint leaves, and carbonated water. The bold tang of lime pairs with mint’s cooling refreshment.
It’s the perfect palate cleanser between savory dishes, delivering a crisp, effervescent exhale that preludes dessert. Garnish with extra mint for a little show.
63. Cucumber Gin Fizz
For those craving a mild cocktail, muddled cucumber and gin form a crisp, refreshing foundation. A dash of simple syrup and sparkling water lighten the mood.
Sipping this breezy concoction while the sun shines feels as carefree as an afternoon nap in a garden. Adding a lime wedge or mint sprig just underscores its fresh vibe.
64. Carrot-Ginger Mocktail
Shredded carrot juice fused with a hint of ginger syrup, topped with soda for a gentle sparkle. The sweet earthiness of carrots meets zingy ginger—a surprising but delightful union.
Serve in tall glasses and let your guests marvel at its vibrant hue. A garnish of fresh carrot fronds or a ginger twist cements its lively, healthful impression.
65. Iced Herbal Tea With Citrus
Chamomile or hibiscus tea brewed strong, then poured over ice with slices of lemon or orange. The infusion delivers a fruity accent that’s both soothing and invigorating.
It’s a non-alcoholic option that’s so refreshing, few can resist its subtle charms. A pitcher of this tea signals hospitality, calm, and a dash of old-fashioned courtesy.
66. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Whole strawberries bathed in melted chocolate until a glossy coating forms. They’re elegant, easy, and surprisingly fun to devour.
Arrange them on a platter for a quick, fuss-free sweet nibble. The bright red fruit shining through dark chocolate captures the essence of spring’s color and indulgence.
67. Mini Egg Blondies
Chewy blondie bars studded with pastel candy-coated chocolate eggs that peek out like bits of rainbow. The butterscotch-like batter pairs beautifully with crunchy candy shells.
They’re a playful homage to Easter egg hunts and simple, sugary joy. One square is never enough when that swirl of candy color beckons with every crumb.
68. Bunny Tail Cookies
Round, coconut-dusted cookies that look like fluffy bunny tails. Often with a sweet marshmallow center, they visually—and taste-wise—channel a whimsical holiday vibe.
They’re easy to shape and garnish, making them perfect for involving kids in the baking fun. Each bite brings a soft, dreamy sweetness that suits the season’s playful spirit.
69. Spring Fruit Salad
A melange of seasonal fruit—think strawberries, kiwi, pineapple—lightly dressed with honey and lime. The bowl explodes with color and fresh juice that begs you to indulge.
It’s a palate cleanser, a side, or a dessert, whatever you fancy. The rainbow of fruit ensures every guest finds something sweet to relish.
70. Marshmallow Bark
Swirls of melted chocolate studded with mini marshmallows, nuts, or colorful candies. Chilled, then broken into shards like confetti-laced bark.
Making it is a snap, and it’s an addictive final flourish for those who crave a crunchy-chewy sweet. The pastel colors or bright candies make it an Easter delight that wraps up the meal on a sugary high note.