For Italians, Easter barely falls second to Christmas in the order of holiday importance. In fact, some might call it a tie. Besides a joyous celebration of colorful traditions, religious reflection and delicious foods, it is often seen as the very threshold of great things to come. Easter weekend never disappoints, as homes fill with familiar aromas. Sweet breads and chocolates are sure to be found among tables of savory meats, spring vegetables and soups. Share new flavors and say Buona Pasqua (Happy Easter) to your loved ones with these springtime favorites!

 

italian-easter-bread-5-650x9751PANE DI PASQUA

Easter is just not Easter without the bread!  This gorgeous traditional sweet bread is filled with buttery warmth and the comforting flavors of vanilla and citrus peel.  There are many ways to make it – braided or round loaf, with eggs or without – but all will add a touch of something special to your plate.

Pro tip: Whether you color them or not, be sure to use raw eggs.  They will simply cook in the oven along with your bread!

Try your hand at an Easter favorite with this recipe courtesy of Savoring Italy:

http://www.savoringitaly.com/2016/03/pane-di-pasqua-italian-easter-bread.html

 

ROMAN EASTER SOUPeggsoup-thumb-625xauto-49603

Consider kicking off your meal with a first-course that incorporates many popular Easter ingredients into one amazing dish. This Easter soup features a meaty broth with fragrant herbs and fresh-squeezed lemon juice. Serve it with a toasted bread round and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Surprise your guests with this savory soup from Serious Eats and Chef, Gina DePalma:

http://www.seriouseats.com/2008/03/this-weeks-tasty-10-20080322.html

 

artichoke.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462ARTICHOKE GRATIN

This hearty vegetable side dish will pair nicely with any entrée you chose for your holiday table.  Marsala wine and chicken broth help keep each slice moist and a small amount of red pepper flakes will add a gentle touch of heat.  Bake until your top is golden and crispy!

Learn more with this tempting recipe courtesy of Food Network’s, Giada De Laurentiis:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/artichoke-gratinata-recipe

 

Hungry For More?

For ideas about how to use our Pasta Too sauces in a variety of dishes, visit Sauce Creations on the main page.  Happy cooking!