As the Easter bunny hops into town, many of us are busy preparing for our annual family gatherings and holiday feasts. And what better way to celebrate than with a delicious Italian-inspired menu? This year, why not try something new and exciting by incorporating traditional Italian dishes with a spring twist? From hearty breads and pastas to sweet treats and savory main courses, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering Italian Easter recipes. Whether you’re looking for classic dishes like traditional Italian Easter Bread or want to try something a little more adventurous, like Lamb Braised in White Wine and Herbs, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Traditional Italian Easter Bread
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this sweet and buttery bread, a staple of Italian Easter celebrations. This traditional recipe yields a deliciously soft and tender loaf, perfect for serving at family gatherings or as a gift to loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm milk, melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 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). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Ricotta Pie
This classic Italian dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with its creamy ricotta filling and crumbly pastry crust. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch pie dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
6. Pour filling into the crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lamb Braised in White Wine and Herbs
A classic French dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this lamb braising recipe is rich and flavorful. Tender lamb, slow-cooked in white wine and herbs, results in fall-apart meat that’s simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add wine, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
4. Return lamb to pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Artichoke and Pea Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the sweet flavors of artichokes and peas, perfect for a springtime meal or special occasion. With its vibrant green color and tender texture, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 large artichoke heart, canned or fresh
– 2 cups mixed peas (such as snow peas, flat peas, and English peas)
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add artichoke heart and peas; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easter Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta
Celebrate Easter with a unique twist on the classic Italian dish. This spinach and ricotta lasagna is an easy-to-make, flavorful main course perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Arrange cooked lasagna noodles in the prepared baking dish.
6. Spread half of the spinach-ricotta mixture over the noodles.
7. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining spinach-ricotta mixture on top.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Sweet Easter Pizza with Colored Eggs
Celebrate the joy of springtime with this delightful Easter pizza, featuring sweet and colorful eggs as the star of the show!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or 1 package of pizza dough
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 4-6 colored hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust or knead the dough to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and honey until well combined.
4. Arrange mixed berries on top of the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place colored eggs on top of the berries, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the eggs.
7. Drizzle the sweet mixture (sugar-honey) over the entire surface.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Spring Vegetables with Garlic
Spring has sprung, and so have the flavors! This simple recipe celebrates the season’s fresh produce, elevating it to a whole new level with the pungency of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 spring vegetables (such as asparagus, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or a mix)
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the spring vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast alongside the vegetables for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and fragrant.
5. Remove the vegetables from the oven and sprinkle with roasted garlic. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Italian Easter Soup with Meatballs
Celebrate Easter with this hearty, flavorful soup that combines tender meatballs with vegetables and pasta in a rich chicken broth. This classic Italian recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
6. Add pasta and meatballs to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Artichokes with Breadcrumbs and Herbs
This recipe adds a delicious twist to the classic artichoke by filling it with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke, removing the tough outer leaves.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each artichoke with the breadcrumb mixture, filling the center cavity.
5. Place stuffed artichokes in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until leaves are tender and the stuffing is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Braised lamb shanks slow-cooked in red wine and infused with the aromatic flavor of rosemary make for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add rosemary, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot; cover with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Easter Egg Biscotti with Almonds
Celebrate Easter with these colorful and flavorful biscotti, perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee. With the addition of toasted almonds and a hint of vanilla, these Italian cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
– Food coloring (pink and white)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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. Divide dough into two portions. Color one portion pink and the other white.
6. Shape each portion into a log, about 12 inches long. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
9. Reduce temperature to 275°F (135°C) and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
10. Allow biscotti to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the sweetness of lemon and the creaminess of ricotta cheese. Perfect for a springtime celebration or a simple afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Fresh Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant pasta dish featuring a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with vegetables. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Thyme
Roasted Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Thyme: A Classic Recipe
A show-stopping centerpiece for any dinner party, this roasted leg of lamb is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and thyme. With its tender, juicy texture and savory aroma, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Score the leg of lamb in a diamond pattern, making sure not to cut too deeply into the meat.
4. Rub the garlic-olive oil mixture all over the lamb, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the thyme sprigs on top of the lamb and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Easter Cheese Pie with Citrus Zest
Brighten up your Easter celebration with this vibrant and flavorful cheese pie, infused with the warmth of citrus zest. This sweet and savory treat is sure to be a showstopper at any springtime gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cheese, cream, eggs, sugar, orange zest, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herbed Focaccia with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful Italian-inspired flatbread, packed with the savory goodness of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Coarse black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and rosemary to the bowl; stir until combined.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down dough; transfer to baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Top with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and coarse black pepper.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Chocolate Easter Dove Bread
Celebrate Easter with this rich and indulgent bread, infused with the sweetness of chocolate and topped with a crispy dove-shaped cookie. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for impressing your loved ones on Easter morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast, warm milk, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add remaining flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Italian-style this Easter with these delicious recipes! From traditional breads and pies to hearty soups and risottos, there’s something for everyone. Try making your own Ricotta Pie or Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary, or go sweet with Sweet Easter Pizza or Creamy Lemon Ricotta Cake. Don’t miss out on the classic Italian Easter Soup with Meatballs or the show-stopping Easter Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta. With these 18 mouthwatering recipes, your Easter feast is sure to be a hit!
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