There's a lot of celebrating to be done this time of year! Whether you're planning a Passover Seder, an Easter brunch or an Earth Day party, these recipes make a welcome addition to any occasion! The common theme for these spring holidays is celebrating rejuvenation and renewal so it's likely not a coincidence that it's also beginning of the local growing season. There is much to celebrate and to look forward to as the world around us "Springs" back into life!
Passover Seder
Passover celebrates the Jews escape from slavery in ancient Egypt. It is also a time to reflect on others who are not as fortunate, who may still be bound both physically and emotionally. The first two nights of Passover are marked with a ritual feast known as Seder, or 'order'. Seder includes many recipes that are symbolic and have roots in Central Europe (Ashkenazi) and the Mediterranean (Sephardic).
One traditional dish is charoset. Charoset symbolizes the martyr that was used to build the pyramids. Try this Boston Organics charoset variation that includes sweet, earthy beets.
During Passover the eating of bread is not permitted. Instead, matzo (thin, flat, unleavened bread) is served. While the Jews were escaping Egypt they did not have time to let bread rise before being pursued by their captors.
Matzo Ball Soup often shows up at many Passover meals. Elevate yours with with carrots, parsnips or most any other root vegetable. Other delicious and seasonal recipes to try: Parsley Potatoes, Rainbow Horseradish, Potato and Rutabaga Gratin, Glazed Root Vegetables, Grilled Pears with Brown Sugar Balsamic Glaze, or Orange Curd.
Easter
Easter is the Christian holiday that celebrates the belief in Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Following Lent, which lasts 40 days, people will eat an Easter feast! Some traditional Easter meals feature ham, gratins, or tarts (source)
Impress your guests with Deviled Eggs Four Ways. Guaranteed to have all of your guests coming back for more!
Or if you're invited to a pot-luck style meal, try any of these side dishes or desserts! Asparagus with Balsamic Butter Sauce, Catalan-Style Tomato Bread, Burnt Carrots with Herbs and Crispy Garlic, Carrot Cake Muffins, Paleo Kale and Chives Egg Muffins, or Kiwi Tart.
Easter isn't complete without some egg dying. If you're not too keen on synthetic chemicals in your kitchen, don't worry! Use organic beets, onions, cabbage, or turmeric to color your eggs. Click here for easy step-by-step instructions.
Earth day
April 22 marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement. As citizens of the world, it's important for us all to be good stewards of our planetary home. Earth Day serves as a reminder to rededicate ourselves to doing more for the Earth. Use a reusable grocery bag, use a compostable produce bag, take public transportation/bike instead of your personal car, compost, eat seasonal produce, plant something!
Here are some recipes to celebrate the Earth and all of its bounty!
Try these recipes: Lentil Soup with Carrots, Turnips and Kale (pic above). Carrot-Parsnip Soup with Sunchoke Chips, Sprouted Legumes Salad, Sausage Risotto with Dandelion Greens and Roasted Parsnips (pic below), Banana Pear Ice Cream, or Apple Dumplings.
What are your family's Passover, Easter, or Earth Day traditions? Comment below!
