Ham is a traditional choice for an Easter lunch or dinner.
When choosing dishes for an Easter carry-in lunch, select recipes that are not only seasonal but also easy to prepare and transport. If the event is to be a potluck occasion, coordinate the menu so that you receive a variety of flavors and colors, adding up to a tasty and pretty display on the buffet table. Make as many dishes ahead of time as possible as time will be limited on Easter morning.
Appetizers
You can't go wrong with deviled eggs as an appetizer. They look pretty on a platter, appeal to a variety of people and, with their use of decorated eggs, are a perfect Easter Sunday appetizer. A soup in a pretty spring color, such as bright green broccoli soup or pale orange carrot soup, can brighten up a buffet table. Additionally, salads offer a light start to the meal. Serve a spinach salad accented with sunny citrus segments and almonds.
Main Dishes
Ham is a traditional choice for an Easter lunch, and it is convenient because it can be made ahead of time and simply reheated when you arrive at the lunch. Quiche can be made with peppers, onions and other vegetables as a vegetarian main course. Another option is lasagna, but instead of heavy tomato and beef sauce, fill it with spinach and cheese along with a cream sauce.
Side Dishes
Potatoes are side dish ingredients that go with almost anything. You can roast and garnish them with fresh herbs, or prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time for simple reheating. If you will be serving an egg-based main course, consider offering scones; fill them with Cheddar cheese and fresh chives for a seasonal touch. Fresh green vegetables, such as green beans or peas, are healthy side dish options. Garnish the peas simply with a little butter and mint, or toss the green beans with almonds for a classic dish.
Desserts
If children will be present at the Easter lunch, chocolate Easter-themed cupcakes or cookies are perfect desserts. They are especially convenient when you prepare them the day ahead and set them into a cupcake carrier so your frosting doesn't get squished. Add a selection of coconut or lemon cupcakes for the adults in the crowd. Alternatively, bake fresh, seasonal strawberries and rhubarb into a pie that will be easy to carry and not too sweet for dessert.
Tags: ahead time, Easter lunch, buffet table, choice Easter, choice Easter lunch, green beans
