Yes, We’re Already Thinking About Easter Dinner

As an unofficial signal of the start of spring, Easter dinner is an opportunity to refresh our culinary repertoire. This is when we graduate from winter’s hearty stews and soups to the light and fresh ingredients of a new season. And while we don’t yet know what Easter is going to look like this year, a little recipe inspiration is most definitely in order.

The problem is, after you’ve managed to successfully eat your body weight in chocolate bunnies, the last thing you want to think about is planning a meal. But play your cards right and you’ll have your menu pretty much prepped way before the egg hunt. From the cocktail hour charcuterie platter right up to the last bite of cheesecake, here’s what our shopping list looks like.

To Start

Easy Cheese and Prosciutto Croissants

Cheese, prosciutto, croissants. Need we say more? Simply layer a muffin or cupcake tin with store-bought puff pastry, throw in the toppings, and then bake to flaky perfection. Half Baked Harvest’s take on this bakery goodie couldn’t be easier to execute. 

Macadamia Cheese and Vegan Crudité Platter

If you are the sort of entertainer who appreciates the grazing approach to appetizers, allow this Minimalist Baker recipe to serve as your ultimate source of inspiration. Personalize the specifics according to what looks good at the farmers’ market, and you’re good to go; it only takes five minutes to make.

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Avocado Cobb Salad With Tahini Ranch

File this Half Baked Harvest dish under a salad course that can almost double as a main. Chock-full of protein-packed components and garnished with a homemade tahini ranch dressing, it’s all kinds of delicious and healthy.

Insalata di Limone

This zingy salad from blogger Add 1 Tbsp is a bit unconventional, but if you’re hunting for the ultimate light, refreshing starter, look no further. Serve it up with crusty bread, and if you have leftovers, save them to spoon over roasted seafood or grilled steak. 

The Main Event

Pesto Bolognese Lasagna

Okay, so lasagna doesn’t exactly scream Easter, but Half Baked Harvest’s ricotta-stuffed riff on the classic is a crowd-pleaser. The vegetarian-friendly option ensures everyone at your table has a little bit of comfort food. 

Hoisin-Glazed Pork Chops

The Modern Proper’s skillet-seared take on grilled pork chops comes paired with an indulgent toasted sesame slaw and bold flavor in the form of honey Sriracha.

Simple Moroccan Salmon

Feasting at Home has one of the easiest dinner ideas around: It takes less than 20 minutes to finish and—minus the fish—uses staples you definitely already have in your pantry.  Seasoned with a medley of Moroccan-inspired spices, it’s best served with a side of almonds, olives, and blood oranges.

Shrimp Boil Foil Packs

Switch things up and make these shrimp boil foil packs, courtesy of Creme de la Crumb. With a sweet brown butter sauce, each wrapped packet promises a flavorful punch. 

Sweet Bites 

Orange Olive Oil Cake

Crowded Kitchen’s Technicolor treat certainly makes for a showstopping end to the meal; just look at that ombré of citrus. It’s also gluten-free and vegan, so go right ahead and take seconds (or thirds). It’s basically a health food. 

Easiest Cinnamon Buttermilk Beignets

With rich layers of vanilla and cinnamon, these fluffy pastries from Half Baked Harvest take only 30 minutes to make, and honestly, we can’t think of a better incentive. Serve them up with espresso to finish off a decadent supper. 

Fruit Ball Party Cups

If you prefer dessert to be on the lighter side, go for these colorful mini fruit salads. The individual servings are ideal for a buffet table. 

Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites

Enjoy this red velvet cake–meets–brownie swirl topped with a generous amount of whipped cream and shaved white chocolate garnish. Creme de la Crumb’s recipe will satisfy any sweet tooth, no matter the size of the craving. 

See more recipes we’re making: 7 Healthy One-Pan Recipes to Get You Out of the Kitchen Quick How to Make Dinner With What’s in Your Freezer Salad for Breakfast? 7 Recipes That’ll Start Your Day Fresh