Easter is this Sunday, April 8. For many of us it’s a time to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This Sunday represents His rising from the grave after sacrificing His life for us. A sacrifice for which I am truly grateful.
This is also a time many people to gather around a table with family and friends and feast on a multitude of incredibly delicious food. Have you started preparing your Easter menu yet? I have some suggestions for recipes that are sure to please.
Muffins are always a perfect and easy option for breakfast. There are so many options when it comes to muffin flavors; so this is the perfect way to accomodate the tastes multiple guests. Here are a few of my favorite muffin recipes:
Blueberry muffins-loaded with tons of blueberry flavor. These muffins not only have healthy helping of whole blueberries, but a blueberry reduction is swirled into the batter right before baking. Top these delicious muffins with a simple and slightly sweet streusel topping and everyone is sure to be please.
Brown butter banana muffins-These muffins are packed full of flavor. The nutty flavor the brown butter brings to this dish is incredible. The brown butter not only brings a flavor all it’s own, but it compliments the banana flavor as well as cuts the sweetness slightly. These were a hit with my family and friends and I know they will be a hit with yours, as well.
Sour cream muffins– These are incredible. These muffins have a slight citrus flavor from the orange zest that is complimented by the slight tang added by the sour cream. The streusel topping adds a slight crunch which is a wonderful addition, not only for flavor but texture, as well.
If you’re serving brunch, a muffin bar would be a wonderful option for your guests who are looking for a lighter option. If you are looking for options that are more filling then I have the perfect suggestion for you!
Cornmeal-herb waffles with salsa and poached eggs-these would be perfect for your Easter brunch. Simple, elegant and full of flavor. These waffles topped with brightly colored salsa and poached eggs; are not only full of flavor and simply impressive.
Pork tenderloin with balsamic-cranberry glaze- pork tenderloin is such a simple dish that can be easily dressed up. That is exactly what has been done with this tenderloin; lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection then topped with a glaze that’s a combinatin of cranberries and balsamic vinegar that’s been cooked down.
Chicken with tomato-herb pan sauce-This is one of my favorite chicken recipes. The chicken is lightly coated in flour, then pan fried to achieve a light crispy coating. This cooking method allows for the best, most tender and juicy chicken you’ve ever tasted. If that isn’t enough, this deliciously cooked piece of meat is then topped with the most incredibly, buttery tomato sauce. The brightly colored tomatoes and herbs would be the perfect addition to any Easter table. Simple sides are perfect; steamed asparagus and lightly seasoned rice
compliment this dish perfectly.
Pancetta wrapped asparagus-this side dish is simple, yet elegant and full of flavor. The salty pancetta helps to add a lot of flavor as well as crunch to this side dish. This asparagus wrapped pancetta would compliment any dish and be perfect on your Easter table.
From scratch green bean casserole-I love green bean casserole and, honestly, I think it’s a staple at pretty much every holiday table, no matter the holiday. This year, if you’re having green bean casserole, you have to try this recipe. It consist of fresh green beans, homemade cream of mushroom soup that is incredibly tasty, a topping that not only contains those ever so popular fried onions but butter, and homemade bread crumbs. A bonus about this recipe, it can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. A great help for an already chaotic kitchen!
Now that we’ve covered breakfast, brunch and lunch let’s move on to the good stuff! Here are some of my recommendations for dessert.
White cake with apricot filling-I made this cake last year for my brother’s wife (then girlfriend) for her birthday. It was such a hit that I ended up making it three more times for various Easter gatherings. The white cake is so moist, light and fluffy and incredibly delicious. The apricot filling adds a tangy sweetness, then everything is encased with a delicious buttercream frosting. The white and orange in this cake sream spring.
Italian cream cake-this dessert is a classic that has been around forever. It’s dessert that is traditional, that is a favorite of everyone and is full of flavor without being heavy. This dessert can be served as a cake or in a more playful way as cupcakes.
Blueberry lemon cupcakes-Blueberries and lemon go hand in hand with spring. These cupcakes combine these two flavors to make the most delicious cupcake that is sweet and slightly tart. These little cakes are then topped with a light POM buttercream frosting. Pomegranite, blueberries and lemon are incredibly delicious in this beautiful cupake that screams Easter and spring.
Pound cake-The quintessential of all pound cakes. This cake is simple yet delicious. To brighten up the plate and presentation serve with fresh, sliced fruit and fresh whipped cream. This dessert is so refreshing and light, and the perfect end to a wonderful celebration with family and friends.
I hope you and your family have a truly wonderful Easter holiday! Happy Easter from our family to yours!