As the Easter bunny prepares to hop into town, foodies around the world are busy whipping up a storm in their kitchens. But what’s a more delicious way to celebrate the holiday than with a traditional Italian feast? Rich in history and culture, Italy has a plethora of delectable dishes that are sure to delight family and friends on Easter Sunday.
From savory main courses like lamb braised in red wine and Parmesan-crusted roast leg of lamb, to sweet treats like homemade ricotta pie and creamy lemon ricotta cake, there’s something for everyone on this list. So why not start a new tradition and gather ’round the table with these 20 mouthwatering Italian Easter recipes?
Traditional Italian Easter Bread
This sweet bread is a beloved Italian tradition, typically made during the Easter season. The sweet aroma of anise and orange zest fills the air as this bread bakes to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, orange zest, and anise extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and cover with plastic wrap.
6. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Ricotta Pie
This classic Italian dessert is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy textures and rich flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping pie that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh berries or fruit preserves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, eggs, and salt. Beat until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Pour filling into pie crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Allow pie to cool before topping with whipped cream and garnishing with fruit.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lamb Braised in Red Wine
Succulent lamb shanks slow-cooked in rich red wine, resulting in tender meat and a flavorful sauce perfect for serving with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot; cover with a lid or foil.
6. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Artichoke and Pea Risotto
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this creamy and vibrant risotto, featuring artichoke hearts and sweet peas. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. This process should take about 20-25 minutes.
4. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in artichoke hearts, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Easter Pizza Rustica
Celebrate Easter with a flavorful and easy-to-make pizza that combines the richness of ham, cheese, and vegetables with the festive colors of spring.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 8 slices cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Spread the diced ham evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar cheese on top of the ham.
- Arrange the mixed vegetables in a decorative pattern.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Easter Pizza Rustica!
Parmesan-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb
Elevate your special occasion dining with this simple yet impressive Parmesan-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb recipe. With its crispy, savory crust and tender interior, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Season the lamb with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the Parmesan mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Easter Colomba Bread
Celebrate Easter with this traditional Italian bread recipe, sweetened with candied fruit and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup candied citron, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and candied citron to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin loaf.
6. Brush the top with melted butter and beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 1 large Colomba Bread
Spring Vegetable Frittata
Spring Vegetable Frittata: A Delicious Breakfast or Brunch Option
This spring-inspired frittata is a perfect way to use up fresh vegetables from your garden or farmer’s market. With its creamy eggs and vibrant colors, it’s sure to brighten up any morning.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Arrange the mixed spring vegetables on top of the onion mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Pour in the beaten eggs and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Italian Easter Pie
Celebrate the joy of Easter with this traditional Italian treat, a sweet and savory pie that’s sure to become a family favorite. This classic recipe combines rich flavors and textures to create a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups of ricotta cheese
– 1 cup of mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of chopped candied citron
– 1/4 cup of chopped pine nuts
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta and mascarpone cheese, sugar, citron, and pine nuts. Mix until well combined.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the egg wash over the pie to give it a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Herb-Roasted Potatoes with Garlic
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the pungency of garlic and a hint of herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Artichokes with Breadcrumbs
A classic Italian-inspired appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy artichokes, filled with breadcrumbs and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Trim the stems of the artichokes and remove any tough leaves.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Stuff each artichoke with the breadcrumb mixture, filling all the nooks and crannies.
5. Place the stuffed artichokes in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Cake
Brighten up your dessert game with this moist and flavorful cake that combines the richness of ricotta cheese, the zing of lemon, and a hint of creamy sweetness. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120g) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Braised Spring Greens with Pancetta
Elevate your spring greens game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pancetta with the sweetness of young greens. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of spring greens (such as ramps, chives, and/or mustard greens)
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion to the pan and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the spring greens to the pan in batches, if necessary, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in the cooked pancetta and optional broth (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easter Egg Cookies with Icing
Hop into the Easter spirit with these adorable egg-shaped cookies, perfectly sweetened and colored to match your holiday decorations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Food coloring (white and pastel colors)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture until a dough forms. Divide into 6-8 portions.
5. Shape each portion into an egg shape. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between eggs.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Icing:
1. Mix confectioners’ sugar and 2 tbsp water to form a thick paste.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing. Mix well.
3. Drizzle over cooled cookies. Let set before serving.
Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: A Simple yet Flavorful Side Dish
Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with the salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. This easy recipe is a great accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Homemade Cannoli with Ricotta Filling
Discover the classic Sicilian treat with a simple recipe for homemade cannoli shells and creamy ricotta filling. This authentic Italian dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Shells:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– Vinegar, for frying
For the Filling:
– 12 ounces whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chocolate chips or chopped pistachios, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add lard or shortening and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to 1/16-inch thickness. Cut into circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
4. Fry shells for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden. Drain and cool completely.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
6. To assemble, pipe or spoon the filling into cooled shells. Garnish with chocolate chips or chopped pistachios, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes for frying shells
Savory Easter Torta Pasqualina
This traditional Italian Easter bread is a savory delight, perfect for serving as an appetizer or side dish at your Easter celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and parsley on top of the bread.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Fresh Herbs
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and refreshing pasta dish, bursting with colorful vegetables and fragrant herbs. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, 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 and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped basil and parsley leaves.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Easter Zeppole
Sweet Easter Zeppole: A Classic Italian Treat with an Easter Twist
These sweet fried dough balls are a staple of Italian celebrations, and adding a hint of orange and lemon zest gives them a bright and festive touch for Easter.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine oil, egg, and sugar. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Bring the dough to room temperature.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia
This classic Italian flatbread is infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and rosemary, perfect for a quick snack or as a side to 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 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and rosemary to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough is formed.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Italian-style with these 20 delicious Easter recipes! From traditional breads like Italian Easter Bread and Sweet Easter Colomba Bread, to sweet treats like Creamy Lemon Ricotta Cake and Easter Egg Cookies with Icing. And don’t forget savory dishes like Lamb Braised in Red Wine, Parmesan-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb, and Pasta Primavera with Fresh Herbs. With a mix of classic Italian recipes and modern twists, you’ll find something to satisfy every taste bud. So why wait? Start planning your festive feast today!
