As the snow melts and the flowers begin to bloom, we welcome the arrival of spring with open arms. For those who celebrate Ostara, also known as Easter, this time of year is a special one – a chance to reconnect with nature, honor the goddess Eostre, and indulge in delicious treats with loved ones. And what better way to do so than with a table full of scrumptious dishes that capture the essence of the season? From sweet buns to savory quiches, from bright green salads to decadent cakes, we’ve gathered 20 festive Ostara recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your spring celebrations.
Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze
Elevate your Easter celebrations with these soft and aromatic hot cross buns infused with the warmth of spices, topped with a tangy orange glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Orange glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, milk, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
7. Bake the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Orange Glaze
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over warm hot cross buns.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spring Vegetable Frittata
Spring Vegetable Frittata Recipe
As the seasons change, fresh vegetables come into season, making this Spring Vegetable Frittata a perfect breakfast or brunch option. This recipe showcases the flavors and colors of spring with a vibrant mix of sautéed asparagus, bell peppers, and onions.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs (if using).
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and savory, these Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme are a delicious side dish perfect for any meal. With the warmth of thyme and the richness of honey, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch sticks
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Drizzle honey over the carrots, then sprinkle thyme leaves evenly.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies: A Sweet Union of Bright Citrus and Soothing Florals
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtle sweetness of lavender, creating a unique flavor combination that’s perfect for springtime baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar, lavender buds, and flour; mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Herbed Roasted Leg of Lamb
A classic roast leg of lamb gets a boost from fresh herbs, resulting in a savory and aromatic main dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the lamb for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature (145°F / 63°C for medium-rare).
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes for a 1.5-pound leg, depending on the desired level of doneness.
Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes
Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes: A Delightful Treat for Spring Celebrations!
These adorable cupcakes are designed to resemble Easter egg nests, complete with shredded coconut “grass” and chocolate eggs. Perfect for Easter gatherings or springtime celebrations, these treats are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Shredded coconut for “grass”
– Chocolate eggs or candy for decoration
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and top with shredded coconut and chocolate eggs.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Asparagus Soup
A classic springtime soup that showcases the sweet and tender flavor of asparagus, blended with creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Sweet and tangy, this classic pie combines the flavors of strawberries and rhubarb in a flaky crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb. Mix in sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill the pie crust with the strawberry-rhubarb mixture.
5. Dot the top of the filling with butter pieces.
6. Roll out the remaining pie crust and use to cover the pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over the crust.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Deviled Eggs with Fresh Dill
Add a burst of bright flavor to your deviled eggs with the freshness of dill. This recipe is perfect for spring gatherings and brunches.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped hard-boiled egg whites for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with additional chopped dill and/or chopped hard-boiled egg whites.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on how quickly you can boil your eggs!)
Spring Pea and Mint Risotto
Spring Pea and Mint Risotto Recipe
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and refreshing risotto, bursting with fresh flavors of peas, mint, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or 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 cup fresh peas (or 1/2 cup frozen)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1 cup of broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, adding it in 1/2-cup increments.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, add the peas and mint; cook until the peas are tender (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this carrot cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of carrots, spices, and cream cheese frosting creates a deliciously moist and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add carrots, butter, and spices; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Radishes with Brown Butter
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of radishes by roasting them to perfection, then elevates their flavor with a rich brown butter sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound radishes, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss radishes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. While radishes roast, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Continue cooking butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Remove radishes from oven and toss with brown butter, garlic (if using), and season to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes
Start your day with a burst of citrusy sunshine in these moist and flavorful Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes. Fresh lemon zest and juice add a tangy twist to the classic pancake recipe, while poppy seeds provide a delightful textural contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Gently fold in poppy seeds.
7. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
9. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Quiche
A classic quiche recipe gets a flavorful boost from the addition of spinach and tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. Drain excess moisture.
4. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooked spinach, crumbled goat cheese, and grated cheddar cheese in the pie crust.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Honey Roasted Ham with Pineapple
Impress your guests with this unique and flavorful twist on a classic roasted ham recipe. The sweetness of the pineapple and honey perfectly balances the savory flavors of the ham, making it a perfect choice for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pineapple rings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the ham with the honey mixture, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
5. Arrange pineapple rings around the ham.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Lavender Infused Honey Butter
This recipe combines the floral sweetness of lavender with the richness of honey butter, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a gift. The subtle flavor of lavender adds a unique twist to this classic spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the softened butter and honey. Heat over low heat, whisking until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the dried lavender buds. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl. Discard the lavender buds.
4. Add salt to taste, then whisk until smooth.
5. Transfer the infused honey butter to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spring Greens Salad with Edible Flowers
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant salad that combines fresh greens, sweet flavors, and delicate edible flowers. This light and refreshing dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup edible flowers (violas, pansies, violas)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spring greens.
2. Arrange the edible flowers on top of the greens in a pattern that suits your eye.
3. Sprinkle the feta cheese and nuts over the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional edible flowers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chocolate Easter Bunny Cake
Create a show-stopping Easter centerpiece with this rich, moist chocolate cake shaped like a bunny. Perfect for your springtime celebration or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed New Potatoes with Garlic
This recipe brings together the simplicity of new potatoes with the pungency of garlic and the freshness of herbs, making for a delightful side dish. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 new potatoes, scrubbed and halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and chives until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic roast chicken recipe, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet and tangy glaze with the tender and juicy chicken will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup citrus glaze (see below)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Glaze:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the citrus glaze ingredients.
4. Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Baste the chicken with the citrus glaze every 20 minutes during roasting.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate the arrival of spring with these 20 festive Ostara recipes! From sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze and Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, to savory dishes like Herbed Roasted Leg of Lamb and Spring Vegetable Frittata, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes, Creamy Asparagus Soup, or Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. And don’t forget the classic deviled eggs with fresh dill! Whether you’re hosting a spring celebration or just looking for some seasonal inspiration, these recipes are sure to bring joy and flavor to your table.