Easter party food ideas will depend on a number of factors, including the time of day the party is scheduled for and the number of guests attending. No matter which type of party you're planning for, there are plenty of options for terrific fare to offer your guests.
Traditional Easter Foods and Themes
When planning your Easter party food ideas, it helps to incorporate some of the traditional foods of the season. Some common choices for seasonal Easter ingredients include:
- Eggs
- Ham
- Lamb
- Fresh spring vegetables
- Hot cross buns and other breads
- Chocolate
Easter themes can also be incorporated, most commonly in the presentation of each dish or to accessorize a buffet table. Some of these are:
- Pastel colors
- Rabbits
- Colored eggs or egg shapes
- Brightly colored flowers
Appetizers and Finger Foods
If your Easter party is being planned for mid-day or after the dinner hour, appetizers and finger foods are perfect options. Guests will likely have already eaten lunch or dinner, so small nibbles will keep them satisfied. Try some of these ideas to kick-start your appetizer menu planning:
- Deviled eggs
- Smoked salmon
- Steamed asparagus spears wrapped in prosciutto (prosciutto is a type of ham)
- Single-serving sized kabobs of lamb or pork with a dipping sauce
- Fresh vegetables with a variety of dips
- Finger sandwiches filled with ham or egg salad
- Stuffed mushrooms
Easter Party Food Ideas for Breakfast or Brunch
Breakfast or brunch parties are perfect at Easter time. The kids can enjoy an Easter egg hunt while the food is being prepared or after the meal, and the food itself can be simple. Try these suggestions for Easter brunch fare:
- Warm hot cross buns, biscuits, and fresh bread
- Quiche or frittata with seasonal vegetables
- Omelets
- Baked ham
- Pancakes or waffles
- Cinnamon rolls
- Berries with whipped cream
- Fruit salad
Dinner Parties for Easter
Easter is traditionally a time when families and friends gather to share an extravagant dinner. Whether you're hosting a large family group or just a few friends, this is the perfect time to plan a special menu. Some ideas for main dishes and sides for an Easter dinner party can include:
- Leg of lamb or lamb chops
- Baked or glazed ham with scalloped potatoes
- Roasted or grilled asparagus with garlic and olive oil
- Fresh salads with seasonal vegetables
- Sweet potatoes, mashed or baked
- Green bean casserole
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed artichokes with Hollandaise sauce for dipping
- Glazed or candied carrots
Dessert is also a major attraction at any dinner party. You can opt for something light after the big meal, or go all out and plan a show-stopping dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Consider one of these options:
- Cheesecake with fresh fruit or chocolate topping
- Homemade fruit pies or cobblers
- Novelty cake with an Easter theme, such as an Easter bunny cake
- Angel food cake with berries
- Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting
- Chocolate fondue with fruit and cake for dipping
Party Food Ideas for Kids
Whether you'd like to offer something special for the young ones attending your party or you're planning a gathering just for kids, Easter party food can be fun for children. Many kids will enjoy the options listed above in smaller portions, but also consider some of these ideas:
- Cupcakes decorated with colorful frosting and jelly beans
- Small sandwiches cut with cookie cutters in seasonal shapes, such as eggs or bunnies
- Baby carrots with a simple dip
- Mini carrot muffins
- Smoothies made with fruit-flavored yogurt, milk, and bananas (the yogurt will give the finished drink a pretty pastel color)
Planning Your Easter Party Menu
With the help of these suggestions and your own resources, coming up with food ideas for your Easter party can be a breeze. Don't forget to consider options for beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, including coffee and tea for guests who enjoy them. With careful planning, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your Easter party with friends and family.
