As the snow melts and the sun shines brighter, we welcome the arrival of spring with open arms. And what better way to celebrate this season of renewal than with a delicious spread of fresh and flavorful recipes? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Ostara-inspired cooking, where herbs are in bloom, eggs are aplenty, and flavors burst forth in vibrant colors.
From savory quiches to sweet treats, these 18 recipes will guide you through the culinary rituals of spring. Whether you’re hosting an Easter gathering or simply looking for a new set of dishes to add some greenery to your table, this collection has got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this Ostara cooking adventure!
Spring Herb and Cheese Quiche
This quiche is a perfect representation of spring’s freshness, filled with the bright flavors of herbs and cheese. It’s a great dish for brunch or dinner, and can be easily reheated for a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed spring herbs (such as chives, parsley, dill, and tarragon)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 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.
3. In a bowl, mix together the herbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
4. Whisk in the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Brighten up your meal with the simplicity of roasted asparagus and a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 teaspoons)
– 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 on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon zest.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carrot and Ginger Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and spicy ginger, making it a delightful comfort food for any season. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of water until they are tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish coated with olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Impress your guests with this mouthwatering glazed ham, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of honey and pineapple. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Top with chopped pineapple and place in the oven.
7. Cook for 15-20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
8. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Deviled Eggs with Fresh Dill
Elevate your deviled egg game with a burst of freshness from this simple yet flavorful recipe. With the addition of chopped fresh dill, these classic snacks become perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Gently remove the yolks from each egg half and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill on top of each deviled egg.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and chill!)
Spring Pea and Mint Risotto
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and refreshing risotto, infused with the sweetness of fresh peas and the brightness of mint. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh spring peas (or frozen)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
5. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in the peas, mint, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are infused with the sweetness of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Strawberry and Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious salad that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. If using, sprinkle feta cheese and nuts over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner table with this flavorful and elegant herb-crusted rack of lamb recipe, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 bone) rack of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the rack of lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the lamb.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies
These adorable Easter bunny sugar cookies are perfect for springtime celebrations. With a simple recipe and a dash of creativity, you can create a batch of cute and delicious treats to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– White frosting and colored sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into bunny shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Potato and Leek Soup
Rich and comforting, this creamy potato and leek soup is a perfect warm-up on a chilly day. With the sweetness of potatoes and the subtlety of leeks, it’s a delightful twist on classic soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chopped leeks, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and broth. Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rainbow carrots (assorted colors), peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, honey, and thyme until well coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spread carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange and Cardamom Glazed Carrots
Elevate your carrot game with this vibrant and aromatic glazed recipe, perfect for a side dish or snack. The combination of sweet orange, spicy cardamom, and hint of cinnamon will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, honey, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Arrange carrot slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the warm glaze evenly over the carrots.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry
Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry: A vibrant and flavorful celebration of the season’s best produce!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry!
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtle sweetness of lavender, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in lemon zest and lavender buds.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Fresh Berry Pavlova
Fresh Berry Pavlova Recipe
A classic Australian dessert, pavlova is a meringue-based treat that’s perfect for warm weather. This fresh berry version is a delicious twist on the original, featuring sweet and tangy berries atop a crispy meringue base.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; whisk until smooth.
4. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a circle, about 25cm (10 inches) in diameter.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Top with whipped cream and fresh berries.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Springtime Herb and Flower Salad
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and refreshing salad, featuring a mix of fragrant herbs, edible flowers, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a colorful addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup violas or pansies (edible flowers)
– 1/2 cup sliced radishes
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mint leaves, basil leaves, and violas or pansies.
2. Arrange the radishes and cucumber slices on top of the herb mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Ostara with these 18 fresh recipes! From savory quiches and soups, to sweet treats like muffins and cookies, we’ve got you covered. Try Spring Herb and Cheese Quiche, Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest, or Carrot and Ginger Soup for a taste of the season. Or go sweet with Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple or Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies. Whatever your flavor, we have something to make your Ostara celebration delicious!
