17+ No Ham Easter Dinner Ideas

As Easter approaches, the hunt for the perfect dinner ideas begins. If you’re not in the mood for ham, don’t worry—there are plenty of delicious alternatives to make your celebration unforgettable.

Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken

Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken

Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.

Herb and Lemon Roasted Chicken

Herb and Lemon Roasted Chicken from Food & Wine

Rating: 4.3. Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken from Cooking For My Soul

Rating: 5. Total Time: 2 hr.

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Imagine a golden-brown chicken roasted to perfection, infused with the zesty freshness of lemon and the aromatic scent of rosemary and thyme. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, with a burst of flavors that dance around your taste buds.

What makes roasted lemon herb chicken so special is the way the flavors meld together. The lemon adds a bright, tangy note that perfectly complements the savory richness of the chicken. Rosemary and thyme bring an earthy aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that never fails to impress.

This recipe is popular because it’s both easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser. You can pair it with a variety of side dishes, making it versatile for any Easter dinner table. Plus, the leftovers make for amazing sandwiches the next day!

Vegetable Wellington

Vegan Vegetable Wellington

Vegan Vegetable Wellington from Connoisseurus Veg

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 1 hr 40 min.

Vegetable Wellington

Vegetable Wellington from Serious Eats

Rating: 4.1. Total Time: 5 hr.

Roasted Vegetable Wellington

Roasted Vegetable Wellington from This Wife Cooks

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 hr 40 min.

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Picture a flaky, golden puff pastry wrapped around a colorful array of vegetables and a rich mushroom duxelles. It’s a vegetarian delight that stands out as the star of the meal, proving that you don’t need meat to create a satisfying dish.

The magic of a vegetable Wellington lies in its combination of textures and flavors. The crisp, buttery pastry contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling. Mushrooms, spinach, and roasted peppers come together to form a savory mixture that feels indulgent yet nourishing. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Garlic Butter Herb Salmon

Garlic Butter Salmon recipe

Garlic Butter Salmon recipe from RecipeTin Eats

Rating: 5. Total Time: 13 min.

One Pan Herb and Garlic Butter Salmon

One Pan Herb and Garlic Butter Salmon from The Busy Baker

Rating: 5. Total Time: 20 min.

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon from Averie Cooks

Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 30 min.

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Imagine biting into a succulent piece of salmon, its delicate texture enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley add a burst of flavor, making each bite an experience to savor.

This recipe is a favorite because it’s both healthy and decadent. Salmon is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, offering a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The garlic butter sauce is simple to make but elevates the dish to something truly special. It’s perfect for a festive occasion like Easter, where you want something memorable yet easy to prepare.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Classic Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Classic Stuffed Peppers Recipe from Chili Pepper Madness

Rating: 5.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers from Budget Bytes

Rating: 4.6.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers from The Pioneer Woman

Rating: 5.

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Bright, colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mix of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices. It’s a dish that bursts with flavor and color, offering a hearty option for those looking for something different.

Stuffed bell peppers are special because they’re customizable to your taste. You can add cheese for creaminess, or more spice if you like a kick. The combination of quinoa and beans makes it a filling, protein-rich choice that keeps everyone satisfied. Plus, they look absolutely stunning on the table.

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

The Best Spinach Lasagna Recipe

The Best Spinach Lasagna Recipe from Serious Eats

Rating: 4.8.

Ultimate Spinach Lasagna (3 Cheeses)

Ultimate Spinach Lasagna (3 Cheeses) from Cooking With Ayeh

Rating: 5. Total Time: 40 min.

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna from Carve Your Craving

Rating: 4.4. Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

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Layer upon layer of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, all topped with a luscious tomato sauce and melted cheese. This dish is comfort food at its finest, offering a vegetarian option that even meat-lovers adore.

What makes this lasagna stand out is its balance of flavors and textures. The ricotta adds a creamy element that pairs perfectly with the slight bitterness of the spinach. The tomato sauce brings it all together with a touch of acidity and sweetness. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy more of the holiday.

Rack of Lamb with Mint Pesto

Rack of Lamb with Mint-Basil Pesto

Rack of Lamb with Mint-Basil Pesto from Food Network

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: lamb, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh mint leaves, fresh basil.

Rack of Lamb with a Mint Pesto

Rack of Lamb with a Mint Pesto from Cringey Kitchen

Total Time: lamb, rosemary, mint, olive oil, lemon juice.

Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Leg with Mint Pesto

Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Leg with Mint Pesto from The Mediterranean Dish

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 40 min.

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Succulent lamb, perfectly roasted with a crisp herb crust, served with a vibrant mint pesto that cuts through the richness. This dish is a showstopper, offering a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

The mint pesto is what sets this dish apart. The freshness of the mint and the zip of lemon juice create a sauce that’s both refreshing and bold. It complements the lamb beautifully, bringing out its natural flavors without overpowering them. This recipe is perfect for Easter when you want something a bit more luxurious, yet still approachable.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Easter Dinners

Easter Dinner Ideas (including side dishes)

Easter Dinner Ideas (including side dishes) from Flipped-Out Food

Rating: 5. Total Time: 4 h 15 min.

What To Cook For Easter Dinner Besides Ham

What To Cook For Easter Dinner Besides Ham from The Dinner Bite

Rating: 5. Total Time: 2 h 46 min.

Easter Dinner: Roasted Leg of Lamb with Marinated Artichokes

Easter Dinner: Roasted Leg of Lamb with Marinated Artichokes from What's Gaby Cooking

Rating: 5. Total Time: 2 h 45 min.

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Timing is Everything

Plan your cooking schedule to ensure everything is ready at the same time. Start with dishes that take the longest to cook, and use timers to keep track of everything. This way, your meal will come together seamlessly.

Prep Ahead

Many components of these dishes can be prepared in advance. Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, or even assemble casseroles the night before. This will save you time and stress on the day of your dinner.

Presentation Matters

Take a little extra time to plate your dishes beautifully. Use garnishes like fresh herbs or citrus slices to add a pop of color. A well-presented dish not only looks appetizing but also enhances the dining experience.