As the last wisps of winter fade away, our thoughts turn to the arrival of spring and the joyous celebrations that come with it. Ostara, also known as Easter, is a time-honored tradition filled with hope, renewal, and feasting with loved ones. To mark this special occasion, we’ve gathered 20 festive recipes that will make your springtime gatherings truly unforgettable.
From savory dishes like Spring Vegetable Frittata with Fresh Herbs and Lamb Stew with Spring Vegetables to sweet treats like Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies and Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Lattice Crust, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, an egg hunt, or a spring-themed brunch, these recipes are sure to delight your guests and leave them feeling full and festive.
Stay tuned for the rest of our Ostara recipe roundup, where we’ll dive deeper into each dish and share tips and tricks for making your spring celebrations truly special.
Spring Vegetable Frittata with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up your morning with a vibrant and flavorful frittata packed with the sweetness of spring vegetables and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until just set.
4. Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs to the eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the vegetables into the egg mixture.
6. Transfer the frittata to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and savory, these honey glazed carrots are infused with the subtle flavor of thyme, making them a perfect side dish for your next meal. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness in carrots and pairs well with roasted meats or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme (about 1 teaspoon)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil until well combined.
4. Add the thyme sprig and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
5. Toss the carrots in the honey glaze until they are evenly coated.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtlety of dried lavender, making them a perfect combination for springtime or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest and lavender buds; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms. Season with salt to taste.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Herbed Ricotta and Pea Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the creaminess of herbed ricotta with the natural sweetness of fresh peas, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart shell (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh peas, shelled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, and salt until combined.
3. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
4. Arrange peas on the tart shell, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Spread herbed ricotta mixture over the peas.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that pairs perfectly roasted spears with a rich and creamy hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hollandaise Sauce (recipe below)
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange asparagus in a single layer.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
5. While asparagus is roasting, prepare hollandaise sauce by whisking egg yolks and melted butter together in a heatproof bowl.
6. Set bowl over a pot of simmering water and slowly pour in lemon juice while continuously whisking until thickened.
7. Serve roasted asparagus with warm hollandaise sauce spooned over the top.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Lattice Crust
This classic pie recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tangy flavor of rhubarb, all wrapped up in a beautiful lattice crust. Perfect for springtime gatherings or anytime you crave a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Roll out one half of the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Place into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming edges to fit.
4. Fill with the strawberry-rhubarb mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
5. Roll out the remaining dough to create lattice strips. Place strips on top of filling, weaving them together to form a lattice pattern.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Chives and Smoked Paprika
Elevate your deviled egg game with a smoky twist! This recipe combines the classic deviled egg flavors with the subtle heat of smoked paprika and the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Sprinkle the chopped chives over the top of each deviled egg.
5. Garnish with a pinch of paprika for added color and flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Prep: 15 minutes
– Total: 30 minutes
Spring Greens Salad with Edible Flowers
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant salad featuring fresh greens and delicate edible flowers. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a colorful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup edible violas or pansies
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and scallions.
2. Arrange the edible flowers on top of the greens in a decorative pattern.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Hot Cross Buns with Orange Zest
These Hot Cross Buns are infused with the brightness of orange zest and the warmth of spices, perfect for a sweet breakfast or afternoon treat. This recipe yields 12 buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Orange zest (from 1 orange)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, egg, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into buns.
6. Place buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 12 buns
Lamb Stew with Spring Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful stew that showcases the best of spring’s fresh produce, paired with tender lamb and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup fresh peas (such as snap peas or sugar snap)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown lamb pieces, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add peas, spinach, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Return lamb to pot and simmer 1 hour or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Easter Bread with Raisins and Almonds
Easter Bread with Raisins and Almonds: A Sweet Tradition
Celebrate Easter with a delicious sweet bread filled with raisins and crunchy almonds. This classic Italian recipe is perfect for the holiday season, and its sweet aroma will fill your home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add sugar, warm water, and mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth.
4. Add raisins and almonds; fold gently into the dough.
5. Place 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.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Brush the top with beaten egg and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Radish and Butter Tea Sandwiches
Radish and Butter Tea Sandwiches Recipe
A refreshing twist on the classic tea sandwich, this recipe combines the peppery flavor of radishes with the richness of butter for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of white bread
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large radishes, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat your tea sandwiches by spreading a layer of butter on each slice of bread.
2. Arrange the radish slices on top of the butter in a single layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with another slice of bread to create a sandwich.
5. Cut off the crusts, if desired, for a neat and tidy sandwich.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon poppy seed bundt cake! This moist and flavorful dessert is perfect for a springtime celebration or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) bundt pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
Elevate your dinner table with this classic combination of tender roasted lamb and refreshing mint sauce. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mint Sauce ingredients:
+ 1 cup fresh mint leaves
+ 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
+ 2 tablespoons honey
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the lamb for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the lamb is cooking, prepare the Mint Sauce by blending mint leaves, yogurt, honey, and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth.
6. Serve the roasted lamb with a dollop of Mint Sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on lamb size)
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic carrot cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add flour mixture, carrots, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Beat until combined.
Spring Pea and Mint Soup
As the weather warms up, this refreshing soup is the perfect way to welcome Spring’s bounty of fresh peas and mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the butter until melted.
2. Add the peas, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and mint leaves. Heat through but do not boil.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Quiche
Spinach and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe
This Spinach and Goat Cheese Quiche is a delicious brunch option that combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach. Perfect for a special occasion or a Sunday morning breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chopped spinach, crumbled goat cheese, and grated cheddar cheese to the bowl and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Curd Tart with Berries
Brighten up your dessert game with this sweet and tangy lemon curd tart, topped with a burst of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim edges.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.
6. Pour curd into baked tart shell and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until set.
7. Allow to cool completely before topping with mixed berries.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dill and Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with a burst of fresh dill and pungent garlic flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for accompanying any main course or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Paper towels for draining excess moisture (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and chopped dill until well combined.
- Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Note: For extra crispy potatoes, pat them dry with paper towels before serving. Enjoy!
Chocolate Easter Nest Cupcakes
Create a sweet treat that’s perfect for Easter celebrations with these chocolate cupcakes decorated to look like nests. Moist and rich, these cupcakes are filled with a surprise inside – just like an Easter egg!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, for the “eggs”
– Chopped pecans or walnuts, for the “nest” texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Ostara with these 20 festive recipes! From spring vegetable frittatas and honey glazed carrots to lemon lavender shortbread cookies and strawberry rhubarb pie, there’s something for every taste. Other highlights include deviled eggs with chives and smoked paprika, hot cross buns with orange zest, lamb stew with spring vegetables, and chocolate Easter nest cupcakes. These delicious dishes are sure to make your Ostara celebrations a memorable one. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory treats, these recipes will inspire you to create a menu that’s as bright and beautiful as the season itself.
