Walking On Sunshine Recipes

menu icon
subscribe
search icon
One Basic Cookie Dough Recipe →

Italian Easter Recipes

Modified: · Published: by · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Italy this holiday season with a delightful array of traditional Italian Easter Recipes.

Included in this collection are traditional pasta dishes, appetizers, bread and even a recipe for lamb shanks!

Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of Italy's Easter traditions, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight.

Make sure you check out our collection of Easter Desserts to complete your celebration!

Recipes for Easter that are Italian themed.

Want to Save This Recipe?

Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, get great new recipes from me every week!

Save Post

By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Walking on Sunshine Recipes.

For most families, Easter marks the end of the Lent where you are supposed to abstain from foods such as meat, eggs and butter.

Easter is a time of celebration for Christ's resurrection and what better way to celebrate than with these Italian Easter Recipes.

Looking for help with Easter Preparation?

Click here now to check out my Let's Do Brunch Easter Celebration Digital Cookbook! prepare for a delicious celebration!

It's the ultimate guide to crafting your dream Easter brunch featuring 11 easy-to-make recipes, Prep-Ahead Tips, Planning Checklists, and Fun Kid's Activities!

Italian Easter Menu

Italian Easter dinners often feature a variety of dishes, depending on regional traditions and family preferences.

However, some common dishes include roasted lamb, especially in central and southern Italy, accompanied by seasonal vegetables like artichokes and asparagus.

Pasta dishes such as lasagna or cannelloni with homemade meatballs and sauce may also be served, followed by a traditional ham meal served with all the side dishes!

One of my favorite dishes to serve is Eggplant Parmesan.

overhead view of casserole lasagna.

Do Italians eat panettone for Easter?

Panettone is traditionally associated with Christmas rather than Easter in Italy. However, food customs can vary greatly from one region to another and from one family to another.

While panettone is not typically eaten specifically for Easter, it's not uncommon for families to enjoy it during other holidays or special occasions throughout the year.

In some areas, Colomba Pasquale, a similar sweet bread shaped like a dove, is more commonly associated with Easter celebrations.

Easter Bread Tradition

Eggs play a significant role in many Easter celebrations, both dyed and cooked. In Italian Easter traditions, they hold special importance as symbols of renewal and rebirth.

In many Italian households, it's customary to bake Easter Bread, a sweetened yeast bread dough featuring colored eggs baked directly into the dough.

What makes this bread unique is that you insert the raw colored eggs, which then cook along with the bread in the oven.

I have two versions of this recipe on my site. One uses the traditional yeast bread recipe and the other uses frozen bread dough made into individual Easter Bread Rings.

Easter Desserts

Desserts can vary, but favorites may include pastiera (a grain and ricotta pie), cassata siciliana (a ricotta and sponge cake dessert), and various types of cookies and sweets.

Every year we have Ricotta Pie made by my sister and my mother's famous Italian Cookies. If you're looking for more ideas, read my 15 Italian Easter Desserts collection.

rainbow cookies.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

Valgus 2 Pack 8QT StainlessMore InformationSterno 70168 Fast Casual CateringMore InformationGibson Home Zen Buffet DinnerwareMore InformationCertified International Corp Certified InternationalMore InformationOlive Oil and Vinegar DispenserMore InformationMantova Organic Flavored Balsamic VinegarMore Information

 

Easter ebook promo regular price.
Buy now grocery store cart button.

Charcuterie Cups

"Discover the charm of charcuterie cups - a delightful and creative presentation for serving cured meat appetizers. Simple to assemble and adaptable to various themes and events!"
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.christinascucina.com

Tomato and Mozzarella Puff Pastry Bites

In just 20 minutes, whip up these delectable Tomato and Mozzarella Puff Pastry Bites, brimming with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, marinated tomatoes, and fresh basil and parsley. Perfect as a delightful starter, appetizer, or complement to any salad.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: walkingonsunshinerecipes.com

Caprese Antipasto Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves and mozzarella balls drizzled with an easy balsamic glaze are simply delicious and will look beautiful on any holiday buffet table.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: walkingonsunshinerecipes.com
Caprese

Homemade Tomato Basil Bruschetta

The authentic taste of Italy comes through in every single bite, making it a comforting and easy appetizer that you’ll want to make for every single party you host.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: foodal.com

Traditional Tuscan Panzanella Recipe

Certainly! Here's the reworded sentence:

Panzanella, a traditional Italian tomato and bread salad, incorporates stale bread with extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, and salt.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.christinascucina.com

Traditional Easter Bread

Indulge in the delightful tradition of Homemade Italian Easter Bread, a seasonal treat that combines rich flavors with time-honored techniques. Celebrate the joy of Easter with this tender, aromatic bread, perfect for sharing with loved ones and creating cherished memories around the table.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: walkingonsunshinerecipes.com
Closeup of Italian Easter Bread Individual Ring with egg in the center.

Easter Dove Bread

Easter Dove Bread [Colomba Pasqua] is the most well-known of the many traditional breads prepared in celebration of the Easter holiday in Italy and around the world.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: thegoodheartedwoman.com

Pizza Rustica (Italian Easter Pie)

Pizza Rustica, an iconic Italian Easter delicacy, boasts a generous filling of eggs, cheese, and assorted meats. Crafted with a simple homemade crust and baked in a springform pan, this savory pie promises not only delicious flavor but also an eye-catching display.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.mysequinedlife.com

Savory Easter Pie

Crafted with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, eggs, and occasionally greens, this Pizza Rustica is encased in a dough akin to a pie crust. With its roots deeply entrenched in regional culinary traditions, each family offers its unique rendition of this classic dish. Dive into the simplicity of our Italian Pizza Rustica Recipe, also known as Savory Easter Pie.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.shelovesbiscotti.com

Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese

Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese and Walnut Lemon Gremolata is a beautiful and tasty way to showcase this springtime jewel!
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.fromachefskitchen.com

Rustic Italian Lamb Meatballs with Broccoli Rabe

Indulge in the robust flavors of these Italian lamb meatballs, seasoned generously with garlic and herbs. Simmered alongside burst cherry tomatoes, they offer a burst of freshness. Serve alongside sautéed broccoli rabe, delicately paired with golden raisins and pine nuts, for a tender and flavorful combination.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: cookathomemom.com

Chicken Parmesan

Elevate your dinner with succulent pan-fried thin chicken breasts, delicately layered with our signature homemade marinara sauce and a blanket of gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors and textures.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: walkingonsunshinerecipes.com
Chicken Parmesan Baked on white platter with cheese and salad on side

Italian Rabbit Stew

Experience the culinary delight of Coniglio in umido, also known as Italian rabbit stew. Indulge in tender rabbit meat enveloped in a luscious sauce infused with white wine, tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and pine nuts, creating a dish that's perfect for Easter festivities.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: whereismyspoon.co

Italian Lamb Shanks with Parmesan Polenta

This lamb recipe offers both comfort and refinement, making it ideal for a cozy winter day or an elegant Easter celebration.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: coupleinthekitchen.com

Homemade Manicotti with Crepes (Crespelle)

Discover the excellence of this homemade manicotti recipe! Master the art of crafting manicotti crepes (crespelle) from scratch, then fill them with a delectable blend of four cheeses and spinach.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: cookingwithmammac.com

Traditional Lasagna Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of this classic Lasagna Recipe, hailing from the Lazio region of Italy. Enhanced by a delectable homemade sauce, this dish stands out as one of the finest. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, it promises to delight every palate.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: anitalianinmykitchen.com

How to make Pasta al Forno

Savor the delightful flavors of Pasta al Forno, a delectable oven-baked pasta featuring a rich and cheesy sauce. With this step-by-step recipe, you'll receive detailed guidance on preparing this timeless Italian favorite with ease.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.marcellinaincucina.com

Stuffed Pasta Shells

Easy Italian jumbo pasta shells stuffed with ragu bolognese sauce, vegetables, fresh herbs, all topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: petersfoodadventures.com

Italian Ricotta Cookies

Indulge in the sweetness of Italian Ricotta cookies, a delightful treat perfect for your Easter celebration. With their soft texture and delicate flavor, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds and add a touch of Italian tradition to your holiday festivities.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: walkingonsunshinerecipes.com
Italian sprinkle cookies with ricotta on baking tray.

Mom's Sicilian Ricotta Pie

An Easter tradition cherished year-round, my Mom's Sicilian Ricotta Pie recipe remains an authentic and time-tested favorite, perfect for any occasion.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.mangiabedda.com

Tiramisu Cups

Tiramisu dessert has gained popularity both in Italy and the United States, and once you taste it, you'll understand why. With a delicate balance of sweetness and espresso flavor, this airy delight is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.savoryexperiments.com

Zuppa Inglese Recipe (Traditional Italian Trifle)

Derived from the English trifle, this Zuppa Inglese recipe hails from Italy's Emilia Romagna region. Its striking red hue is achieved by the Alchermes liqueur, a local specialty, imparting both vibrant color and exquisite flavor to this visually captivating Italian dessert.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.marcellinaincucina.com

Classic Italian Rainbow Cookie Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Italian Rainbow Cookie Recipe, featuring the essence of almond extract, destined to become your go-to holiday dessert. Crafted with almond paste and almond extract, this timeless cookie cake offers a harmonious blend of flavors in every delectable bite, ensuring a holiday treat like no other.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: thehobbywife.com

Creamy Sicilian Ricotta Pie

Experience the creamy indulgence of this Sicilian Ricotta pie, delicately infused with a touch of lemon, making it an unparalleled delight. While this classic Italian Ricotta Pie is a staple during Easter, its irresistible allure might just earn it a permanent place as your favorite dessert throughout the year!
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.spatuladesserts.com

Tiramisu recipe

Indulge in my effortless Tiramisu recipe, crafted without eggs or alcohol, ensuring it's a dessert suitable for the entire family to relish. Layered with velvety vanilla-infused mascarpone and whipped cream, and complemented by espresso-syrup-soaked sponge cake, this decadent treat promises a rich and satisfying sweetness that's simply irresistible.
Make this recipe
Photo credit: www.vegrecipesofindia.com

About Lois

Originally from Queens, NY, Lois is the voice behind Walking on Sunshine Recipes, where she shares easy, family-friendly meals made with simple ingredients. She believes dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious and offers practical recipes, monthly meal plans, and free printables to help busy families cook with less stress and more joy. When she’s not in the kitchen, Lois enjoys time with her family, gardening and sharing inspiration from her home in rural Pennsylvania.

Comments

No Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *