As Easter approaches, many people around the world are preparing for a sacred and meaningful holiday – Good Friday. For many Christians, this day marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is often observed with solemnity and reverence. While some may opt for lighter meals on this holy day, others might choose to indulge in delicious and traditional recipes that pay tribute to the rich culinary heritage surrounding Easter.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Good Friday recipes that blend faith and flavor. From sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze to savory dishes like Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze
These sweet buns are a classic Easter treat, filled with spices and dried fruit. The orange glaze adds a tangy and citrusy twist to the traditional recipe.
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
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or currants)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Fold in dried fruit and brown sugar.
4. Beat in eggs and orange marmalade.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bun.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. While still warm, drizzle with orange glaze (see below).
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Orange Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Mix all ingredients until smooth and drizzly. Use immediately.
Classic Fish and Chips with Tartar Sauce
Enjoy a timeless British favorite with this simple recipe for crispy fish and chips served with a tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch strips (for chips)
– Tartar sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon chopped pickle relish
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge fish pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured fish pieces in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture again.
4. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Cook chips (potatoes) in boiling salted water for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain and fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
6. Mix tartar sauce ingredients together. Serve fish with chips and tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
This simple yet flavorful recipe yields a succulent salmon dish with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner. Fresh shrimp, garlic, and herbs combine in a creamy sauce to coat al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
5. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on a classic recipe, these Mediterranean-inspired stuffed bell peppers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. Filled with a mix of aromatic spices, tangy feta cheese, and savory rice, these peppers are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Cod
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional roasted fish, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with the zesty warmth of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Get ready to spice up your breakfast with this bold and flavorful dish! This Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe combines succulent shrimp, spicy cajun seasoning, and creamy grits for a mouth-watering meal that’s sure to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the shrimp. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked grits and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
A flavorful and crispy tilapia dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated tilapia on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread
This comforting soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. With the added crunch of crusty bread, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty bread, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Elevate your dinner party with this indulgent recipe featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound each)
– 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each lobster tail, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is opaque and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Lemon Garlic Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a light and satisfying dinner or as an appetizer for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place scallops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach desired doneness.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
A delicious twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this Spinach and Ricotta version adds a boost of nutrients from fresh spinach. A creamy ricotta filling infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese is the perfect complement to tender pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a 9×13-inch baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Fish Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional fish tacos, this recipe combines the crunch of beer-battered fish with the bold flavors of Mexico. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells
– Lime wedges
– Cilantro, chopped
– Sliced radishes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add beer to the mixture, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip fish pieces into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry battered fish for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.
5. Drain fish on paper towels. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fried fish into the shell, followed by lime wedges, cilantro, and radishes (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Butter Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and herbs with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or main event, these Herbed Butter Roasted Potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
A rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the brightness of spinach, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until liquid is absorbed. Repeat 3 times.
6. Stir in spinach and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes to create a quick and delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and richness of butter to create a mouthwatering shrimp dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. If using white wine, drizzle it over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Classic Tuna Nicoise Salad
This iconic salad combines the richness of tuna with the tanginess of vinaigrette, all on a bed of crunchy greens and topped with crispy bacon. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of albacore tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Flake the tuna into small pieces and add it to the salad.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna Recipe
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, this Roasted Vegetable Lasagna is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The roasted vegetables add a depth of flavor and texture that will elevate your lasagna game.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading half of the vegetable mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by half of the noodles. Repeat the layers.
6. Top with chopped basil leaves (if using) and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Clams with White Wine Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent yet simple recipe, featuring tender clams smothered in a rich white wine sauce infused with garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add clams, white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until clams open.
4. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined with sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious and traditional Good Friday feast! Our collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes will transport you to a world of flavors. From sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze, to savory dishes like Classic Fish and Chips with Tartar Sauce, there’s something for everyone. Explore our selection of seafood delights, including Garlic Butter Lobster Tails and Crispy Beer-Battered Fish Tacos. Plus, don’t miss our vegetarian options, such as Vegetable Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread and Roasted Vegetable Lasagna. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered.
