Easter Sunday in Monmouth County is more than just egg hunts and chocolate bunnies—it’s a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy a warm, celebratory meal that welcomes spring with open arms. Whether you're hosting brunch in Red Bank, a family dinner in Freehold, or a coastal gathering in Long Branch, your Easter feast should be as memorable as the company around the table.
To help you plan the perfect holiday spread, here are 11 delicious Easter dinner ideas that include a mix of traditional favorites and fresh seasonal twists. They’re sure to wow your guests and bring the flavors of spring straight to your table.
Spiral ham is a classic Easter centerpiece that never goes out of style. Bake a bone-in spiral ham with a brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple glaze for that irresistible sweet-savory combo. If possible, grab a ham from Dearborn Market in Holmdel or Monmouth Meats in Red Bank. Local butchers often have higher quality meat and a wider selection with various cuts. They may even source their ham from local farms, which is another plus!
While ham is the go-to choice for Easter, you may want to try something lighter, especially if you’re eating earlier in the day. Roast a whole chicken or bone-in thighs with a mix of fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon. It’s simple, elegant, and full of flavor, perfect for a spring holiday! Pair the herb-roasted chicken with honey glazed carrots and spring greens tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Nothing says Easter like a perfectly roasted leg of lamb with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. Due to its large size, it’s a perfect choice for the holiday, as it can serve 6-8 people. Just be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to cook, as it does take several hours. This main dish is ideal for a more traditional or formal dinner and pairs well with baby potatoes and roasted asparagus.
Hosting brunch or looking for a vegetarian option? Try a light and fluffy quiche! To speed things up without sacrificing flavor, use a ready-made crust. There are many variations to choose from such as traditional cheese and bacon, vegan spinach and cherry tomato, and leek and goat cheese. You can even make several of these in different flavors to accommodate all taste buds!
For a modern twist, serve oven-roasted salmon with a glaze made from maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice. It’s sweet, tangy, and perfectly flaky. Salmon makes a great alternative for those who don’t like meat, and it pairs well with the same sides that go with lamb, chicken, or ham.
A quick Google search will show you numerous ways to make deviled eggs. Who would have thought there would be so many! You can elevate this Easter staple with smoked paprika, crispy bacon, fresh dill, or capers. Serve them as an appetizer or side dish. Plus, they’re a great way to use up those dyed eggs! Just make sure that any dyed eggs are stored properly and consumed within the week.
Creamy, cheesy, and golden brown on top, scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Gruyère cheese adds a nutty richness that pairs well with ham or chicken. While there are many premade options, you can make them homemade by peeling and slicing potatoes and cooking them in the oven. You can even assemble them the night before and bake just before serving.
Carrots are an Easter essential. There are many ways to make them, but one of our favorites for the spring holiday is by roasting them. Roast fresh carrots or baby carrots with honey, butter, and a pinch of sea salt until caramelized and tender. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or pistachios for color and crunch.
Another Easter staple is spring peas, which taste wonderful in this bright, crisp, and refreshing salad. Toss asparagus tips, snap peas, and baby greens in a lemony dressing and top with feta or shaved Parmesan. If possible, pick up the produce from a Monmouth County farmers market.
Warm, fluffy biscuits fresh from the oven? Yes, please! Serve with whipped butter, jam, or honey for a cozy addition to your holiday table. Biscuits pair well with just about everything on this list, making them a crowd favorite. If you want something different from biscuits, try a sweet, buttery cornbread instead.
Finish your Easter meal on a sweet (but not too heavy) note. A lemon Bundt cake drizzled with glaze adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that’s perfect for spring. If you’re not a fan of lemon, there are other spring-y flavors to try such as blackberry, strawberry, or key lime.
Easter in Monmouth County is all about food, family, and fresh beginnings. With these 11 Easter dinner ideas, you can create a feast that’s not only delicious but filled with love and laughter. So set the table, pour a cocktail, and enjoy every bite this Easter Sunday.
Looking for help catering or planning your Easter meal in Monmouth County? Reach out to La Rosa Chicken and Grill for a complete meal that will bring your celebration to life. You can create an entire meal with our healthy chicken options, freshly prepared sides, and cornbread without lifting a finger!