In the United States, traditional Easter dinners vary by region and family traditions, but there are some common foods that are often featured on the table. The meal tends to be a festive one, celebrating the arrival of spring and the Easter holiday. Some of the most common dishes include:
Main Course:
- Ham: One of the most traditional Easter main dishes in the U.S. is baked ham, often glazed with honey, brown sugar, mustard, or fruit preserves. The rich, savory flavor of ham is a classic choice for holiday gatherings.
- Lamb: In some families, lamb is the centerpiece of the meal, symbolizing Christ as the “Lamb of God.” Lamb can be roasted with herbs or prepared in various ways, such as leg of lamb or rack of lamb.
- Roast Beef: Some families also opt for a roast beef, often served with gravy or horseradish sauce.
Side Dishes:
- Scalloped Potatoes or Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting potato dishes like scalloped potatoes (potatoes baked with cheese, cream, and breadcrumbs) or mashed potatoes are popular choices.
- Green Beans: Green beans, often prepared with bacon, almonds, or in casseroles (like green bean almondine or green bean casserole), are a common vegetable side.
- Asparagus: Fresh spring asparagus, either roasted or steamed, is a seasonal favorite for Easter dinner.
- Carrots: Glazed carrots or roasted carrots with honey or brown sugar are often included to add sweetness and color to the meal.
Salads:
- Deviled Eggs: A traditional appetizer or side dish, deviled eggs are often served during Easter. The hard-boiled eggs are filled with a creamy, tangy filling made with mayonnaise, mustard, and other ingredients.
- Spring Salad: A light, fresh salad with seasonal ingredients like mixed greens, strawberries, radishes, and a vinaigrette dressing is a common addition to the Easter meal.
Bread and Rolls:
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are a staple, often served warm with butter.
- Hot Cross Buns: These sweet, spiced buns are typically eaten on Good Friday but may also appear at Easter dinners. They are traditionally marked with a cross on top and may contain dried fruit or currants.
Desserts:
- Carrot Cake: A popular Easter dessert, carrot cake is moist and often topped with cream cheese frosting. It’s a nod to the season and commonly associated with Easter.
- Pies: Fruit pies, such as apple, cherry, or lemon meringue, are common at Easter dinner. Lemon is especially popular, reflecting the fresh, bright flavors of spring.
- Chocolate or Sugar Easter Eggs: Chocolate Easter eggs or sugar eggs filled with candy or small scenes are also common, especially for families with young children.
Beverages:
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or iced tea are often served alongside the meal.
- Wine or Champagne: For adults, wine, and sometimes champagne or sparkling wine, is enjoyed to toast the holiday.
While these dishes are typical of many American Easter meals, the menu can vary greatly depending on cultural backgrounds and personal preferences. Some families may incorporate regional specialties or ethnic influences, adding variety to the traditional spread.
