Easter Sunday is fast approaching, and if you're having friends and family over for dinner you're probably in the midst of planning your menu. We're well into spring by now, and the brighter, sunnier (but not necessarily warmer) weather calls for lighter, fresher flavours, but there's still nothing like a traditional roast on Easter Sunday. Whether you're planning a full three-course meal with all the trimmings, or saving room for your Easter eggs, we have the all the recipes you'll need to suit every Easter gathering.
A Tasty Start
Whet your appetite before the main event with one of these light, tasty starter ideas.
Crab Cakes with Watercress and Lime Aioli
Georgina O'Sullivan's idea of the ultimate crab cake is less cake, more crab, and we're with her on that. These Crab Cakes with Watercress and Lime Aioli are packed with crab and full of flavour.
Crostini with Spiced Lamb and Avocado
Lamb is an Easter tradition for many people, but if you don't fancy roasting a whole joint, these little Crostini with Spiced Lamb and Avocado are a doddle to make. They're great for feeding a crowd too. Just make extra! Pour your guests a glass of wine and pass around a platter of crostini while you put the finishing touches to the main course.
Mozzarella and Parma Ham with a Chilli, Garlic and Olive Dressing
It doesn't get much easier than this Mozzarella and Parma Ham Salad. Prepare your beautiful, fresh ingredients in advance and simply assemble each salad when you're ready to serve.
The Main Event
Whether you're going the traditional route or feeding a crowd, these main course recipes will keep everyone happy this Easter.
Roast Lamb with Tapenade & Spring Onions
Give traditional roast lamb a makeover with Bord Bia's Roast Lamb with Tapenade & Spring Onions. The beauty of this recipe is that it roasts in less than an hour, so you don't have to start preparing the meal hours in advance. Spring onions (or baby leeks) add a sweet freshness to this rich, tasty dish.
Vegan Nut Roast
This vegan nut roast is so good your meat-eating family members will want to get in on the act. Packed with vegetables, nuts and seeds, this is a hearty main that adds something a bit special to your Easter menu.
Fiery Fish Stew
Not everyone fancies going to the trouble of a roast on Easter Sunday. If you're feeding a crowd, this Fiery Fish Stew is the way to go. The tomato base can be made in advance, and the fish cooks in no time, so you'll spend less time in the kitchen and more time having fun with your family. Win-win!
On The Side
The possibilities are endless when it comes to side dishes, but we've chosen three of our favourites.
Miso, Lemon and Thyme Glazed Roasties
Sweet roasted vegetables are one of the best parts of a roast dinner. Indy Power shakes things up a bit by adding salty, savoury miso to hers and it really works. These Miso, Lemon and Thyme Glazed Roasties pair beautifully with lamb.
Roasted Cauliflower and Pistachio Salad
Take a break from rich, creamy cauliflower cheese and add a burst of freshness to your Easter meal. The citrusy, vinegary dressing on this Roasted Cauliflower and Pistachio Salad will help cut through the richness of your main course, whether you're roasting some tender lamb, or trying out the Fiery Fish Stew above.
Sweet Potato Gratin
There's nothing quite like a classic potato gratin, but Paul Flynn mixes things up by adding sweet potato to his. The results are spectacularly good. This Sweet Potato Gratin recipe is the perfect dish to serve alongside your Easter roast.
Something Sweet
Even when the house is filled with chocolate Easter eggs, there's always room for a little dessert, right?
Cinnamon Apple and Rhubarb Crumble
Comforting crumbles make the perfect dessert for a gathering. They can be made in advance and they're super simple to serve. If some of your guests aren't quite ready for dessert after dinner, crumbles reheat well in the microwave (in individual portions) ready to be dolloped with cold, fresh cream. We love Andrew Rudd's Cinnamon Apple and Rhubarb Crumble recipe.
Perfect Irish Cream Pavlova
If you're looking for something a little less heavy, it doesn't get lighter or more delicate than this Irish Cream Pavlova. This is perfect if you fancy something sweet and indulgent after your Easter meal, but want to save room for your Easter egg later.
Let us know if you try any of these delicious Easter recipes. You can leave a comment below, or find us on Facebook and Twitter. We'd love to hear from you.
Happy Easter!