Easter Lunch

Normally I steer clear of pastels, but around Easter, I can't get enough mint green, pale pink, baby blue, and light yellow. These shades are key to creating a festive Easter atmosphere. Start by setting the table with a lovely cloth and white plates with yellow rims. Serve the shrimp toasts on flat platters and pass a tray with ham at the table. Give each guest an individual potato gratin and pour the cocktail in lux highball glasses. Use egg-shaped plates for dessert.

Chocolate bunnies are a fun edible place setting. Don't forget candles, flowers, and pretty finishing touches like satin ribbons. If children are coming to your celebration, give each one a sheet of peel-and-stick appliques to play with.

How are you decorating for Easter?

At any sort of celebration, it's always nice to start things off with a special cocktail. Easter is no different. It gives guests something to do, stimulates conversation, and loosens up the crowd.

The appetizer is rich and buttery, so select a potent and refreshing cocktail, like this raspberry-thyme smash, to pair with it. The drink is herbal, fruity, and downright delicious.

Although the recipe calls for gin, I'm sure it would be equally delightful with vodka. For the easy method, keep reading.

When hosting a holiday celebration like Easter that involves planning an elaborate several-course meal, don't be afraid to cut some corners. Instead of making a time-consuming dessert, put together a simple, but special, puff pastry tart. This one is topped with fresh strawberries, creamy mascarpone, and sweet honey. It's a light and fruity finish that's the perfect way to end your Easter meal. To make in advance, roll out the dough and keep the cooked strawberries in an airtight container. Top the dough just before baking. Read more for the easy recipe.

Whether you are hosting a late lunch or early dinner, this year, I have the perfect Easter menu. It's a somewhat classic spread that starts with crisp toasts slathered in shrimp butter. Since Easter is a celebration of rebirth, no meal is complete without Spring's most beloved vegetable: asparagus. Roast it, then serve on top of a bed of seasonal lettuces. For the main course nothing says Easter like a baked ham. Instead of the traditional honey-glazed version, delight guests with a savory sweet pineapple-mustard glazed ham. Pair with creamy scalloped potatoes made with creme fraiche and you've got a spectacular dinner sure to please even the pickiest of in-laws. Want the recipes? Please keep reading.