As spring bursts forth with vibrant colors and renewed energy, many cultures celebrate the arrival of Ostara, a time honored festival marking the vernal equinox. This season of rebirth is a perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a festive feast, filled with fresh flavors and delightful treats. To help you prepare for your own Ostara celebration, we’ve curated a collection of 20 recipes that showcase the best of spring’s bounty.
From sweet treats like Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies and Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, to savory delights such as Herbed Roasted Leg of Lamb and Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles, our selection has something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner party, these recipes are sure to bring joy and nourishment to your loved ones.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of Ostara-inspired cuisine, highlighting the most delicious and innovative dishes perfect for spring celebrations. So, let’s get cooking!
Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze
Hot cross buns are a traditional sweet bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds a refreshing twist by topping the warm buns with a tangy orange glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Orange glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons orange juice, and 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Combine warm milk and yeast in a small bowl. Stir to dissolve, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into buns.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While still warm, brush with orange glaze.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spring Vegetable Frittata
This recipe showcases the flavors of spring with a colorful and nutritious frittata packed with sautéed vegetables. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet.
8. Cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
9. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is fully set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
This simple yet elegant recipe brings together the natural sweetness of carrots, the richness of honey, and the earthy aroma of thyme to create a delicious side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 sprig fresh thyme (about 1 teaspoon chopped)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, and chopped thyme.
3. Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the glazed carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these refreshing Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, infused with the sweetness of lemon zest and the subtle charm of dried lavender. Perfect for a springtime treat or a sweet addition to your afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in lemon juice, lavender buds, and salt.
5. Fold in lemon zest.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Herbed Roasted Leg of Lamb
A classic dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this herbed roasted leg of lamb is a flavorful and aromatic centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb, bone-in
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the lamb on a roasting pan or a rimmed baking sheet, and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– 1.5-2 pounds: 30-40 minutes
– 2-3 pounds: 40-50 minutes
Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes
These adorable cupcakes are perfect for Easter celebrations. Moist vanilla cake is topped with a creamy buttercream frosting and decorated with edible flowers to resemble a real egg nest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Edible flowers or sprinkles for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely. Top with buttercream frosting and decorate with edible flowers or sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Fresh Pea and Mint Soup
This vibrant green soup is a refreshing twist on traditional pea soups, with the added sweetness of fresh mint leaves. Perfect for springtime or as a light and healthy meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the peas, chicken broth, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
2. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree the soup until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Chard and Goat Cheese Tart
Vibrant rainbow chard takes center stage in this sweet and savory tart, paired with creamy goat cheese and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 bunch of rainbow chard (about 4 cups), stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large bowl, toss chopped chard with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the chard mixture over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Top chard with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Fold edges of pastry up around the filling to create a crust. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden brown color.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the earthy aroma of rosemary with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spread potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
This classic pie combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, resulting in a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for springtime baking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb.
3. Add sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt; mix until fruit is evenly coated.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill pie crust with fruit mixture; dot with butter pieces.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust for lattice-top design; place on top of filling.
7. Brush egg wash over crust; bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Dill and Chives
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of bright, tangy dill and oniony chives. These flavorful ingredients add depth and complexity to this classic party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill, and chives until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle with additional chopped dill and chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep only)
Asparagus and Prosciutto Bundles
This elegant appetizer or side dish showcases the natural sweetness of asparagus paired with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bundles in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, leaving a small stem exposed at the top.
5. Place bundles on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each bundle.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until asparagus is tender and prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes
Brighten up your morning with these delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes, bursting with citrusy flavor and a hint of crunch from the poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, lemon juice, melted butter, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in poppy seeds.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (yield: 8-10 pancakes)
Spring Greens Salad with Edible Flowers
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant salad featuring fresh greens, edible flowers, and a hint of citrus. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a beautiful addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup edible flowers ( violas, pansies, nasturtiums)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed spring greens and chopped fresh mint.
2. Arrange the edible flowers on top of the salad in a pattern that suits your taste.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, gently tossing to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served fresh and can be prepared in just 10 minutes.
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This moist and flavorful carrot cake recipe is a staple for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese frosting takes it to the next level, providing a tangy and creamy contrast to the sweet cake.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, carrots, walnuts (if using), melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with cream cheese mixture (beat softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter
A flavorful and aromatic salmon dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the savory goodness of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide herb mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently onto fish.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon.
6. Dot each fillet with butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Radish and Butter Tea Sandwiches
Radish and Butter Tea Sandwiches: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Recipe
These elegant sandwiches are perfect for a light lunch or as a delightful addition to your afternoon tea. The crunch of fresh radishes pairs beautifully with the richness of butter, making for a flavorful and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– 4 large radishes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a small amount of butter on each baguette slice.
3. Top the butter with a thin layer of radish slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. If desired, add a dollop of mayonnaise or cream cheese on top of the radishes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
Lavender Honey Madeleines
Elevate your tea party or afternoon gathering with these delicate, flavorful madeleines infused with the subtle charm of lavender and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh lavender sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a madeleine pan with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in lavender buds and honey until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan, filling 3/4 of each shell.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
8. Allow madeleines to cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and roasted beet slices.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (for roasting beets)
Spring Berry Pavlova
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this light and airy pavlova, topped with a colorful mix of fresh berries. This recipe is perfect for a seasonal dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over egg mixture and fold gently to combine.
5. Spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet and shape into a round or oval shape.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, then turn off oven and let cool completely.
7. Whip softened butter until light and fluffy. Top cooled meringue with whipped butter and fresh berries.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to celebrate the arrival of spring with these delicious and festive Ostara recipes! From sweet treats like Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies and Easter Egg Nest Cupcakes, to savory dishes like Herbed Roasted Leg of Lamb and Rainbow Chard and Goat Cheese Tart, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in classic spring flavors like strawberries, carrots, and asparagus, or try something new with recipes like Radish and Butter Tea Sandwiches and Rosemary Garlic Roasted Potatoes. Whatever your taste, these 20 festive recipes will help you celebrate the beauty of spring.
