Easter Meal Perfection

Today we observe Easter in remembrance of Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. Easter also gives families everywhere the opportunity to gather and savor a scrumptious holiday meal. Today more than ever the importance of family is most crucial. The pandemic that has swept through our country has many of us re-evaluating and reconnecting with our clan. Many families have their standard traditional fare for Easter dinner. Over the years I have experienced many customary fares. If I had my choice these would be 5 courses making up the perfect Easter meal.

5. For the starch, it would be scalloped potatoes hands down. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions dusted with flour and covered with milk. Season with salt, pepper, and bake at 375 until lightly brown. Simple and delicious.

4. Asparagus is my favorite vegetable, and Easter is the perfect time to serve it. It’s in season and cheaper. Whether it’s grilled, baked, or steamed until just tender I love it smothered with melted butter.

3. You can’t get any more traditional than a honey-glazed ham. When I was a kid, it was the star of the Easter table. Honey and brown sugar mixed together and slathered over a hickory smoked ham. Sliced pineapple rings optional.

2. Rack of lamb is one of my favorite cuts of meat and would easily be a second main course on my table. Seasoned, seared, and finished in the broiler to a perfect medium rare. Mint jelly is okay, but I prefer simple garlic and herbed butter.

1. Like asparagus, strawberries are in season, and who doesn’t love strawberry shortcake? Sliced berries sprinkled with sugar and chilled. Later piled onto layers of shortcake and topped with fresh whipped cream.

Celebrate Easter this year with your favorite foods. I actually enjoy this lineup more than it’s Thanksgiving Day rival. Food from the spring harvest just tastes fresher and brighter in my opinion. I’m sure many of you will have some of these very same dishes on your table as they are very traditional. Enjoy your perfect Easter meal. Stay safe and healthy.