Garlic, a versatile ingredient, is an absolute necessity in any kitchen. It’s known for its bold and robust flavor and can enhance the taste of various dishes.
Easter is one such occasion that calls for using garlic as a quintessential ingredient to add flavor and aroma to the festive spread. From classic roasted lamb to cheesy garlic bread, the options for serving garlic-infused dishes on Easter are plenty. Here are some ideas on what to serve with garlic this Easter:.
1. Roasted Leg of Lamb with Garlic
Roasted lamb is a traditional Easter dish, and garlic is an excellent complement to it. To prepare roasted leg of lamb with garlic, carefully tuck garlic cloves into slits you create in the roast.
Season the leg with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Roast in the oven until it is cooked through. The garlic gives you a savory flavor that’s a perfect match to the richness of the lamb.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with anything. But, by infusing them with garlic, they become an irresistible part of the Easter feast. To make garlic mashed potatoes, boil potatoes in salted water.
Over low heat, add garlic cloves with butter and milk until the potatoes are gooey and buttery. Add herbs for taste and texture. Voila! You’ve got the perfect side dish to your Easter celebration.
3. Garlic Butter Green Beans
Green beans are a great accompaniment for the Easter menu. With garlic butter, they become an exceptional addition to flavor and texture.
Cook the green beans until tender and sauté with a garlic butter sauce made of melted butter, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper, and a pinch of thyme. You can also sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an added crunch.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread
No celebration is complete without a basket of warm, gooey garlic bread. And what’s better than adding cheese to the mix? To make cheesy garlic bread, slice a baguette into slices and spread garlic butter over each slice.
Add grated cheese and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted, and the bread is crispy. Serve this savory bread with a hot bowl of soup or as a crowd-pleasing app at your Easter dinner party.
5. Garlic and Herb Roasted Carrots
Easter is the perfect time to bring in some fresh spring flavors into your food. Roasted carrots with garlic and herbs is a flavorful and colorful dish that will complement your Easter feast well.
Roast the carrots with a glaze of garlic butter, honey, thyme, and lemon juice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for that extra crunch.
6. Garlic and Herb Grilled Lamb Chops
Lamb chops are an excellent way to elevate your Easter menu. By marinating the lamb chops with a garlic and herb paste, you can create a rich and robust flavor that will be an absolute delight.
Mix olive oil, chopped garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and salt to create the marinade. Coat the lamb chops with the marinade and grill them until they’re cooked through and juicy.
7. Garlic Shrimp Scampi
If you’re looking for seafood this Easter, try a delicious garlic shrimp scampi. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for gatherings. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant and add in raw shrimp.
Cook until the shrimp turn pink and then add a splash of white wine and squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with a side of pasta or buttery bread to soak up the juices.
8. Creamy Garlic Mushroom Risotto
Risotto is a classic comfort food that can be enhanced by the flavor of garlic. Creamy garlic mushroom risotto is a great addition to any Easter menu, as it’s elegant, luxurious, and flavorful.
Start by sautéing garlic in butter and add sliced mushrooms until they are tender. Add arborio rice and a splash of white wine. Then pour in chicken or vegetable broth gradually until the rice is tender and the dish is creamy. Add grated parmesan cheese for an elevated touch of flavor.
9. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is a good choice for a healthy Easter side dish. Garlic-roasted asparagus offers a great twist with its delicious blend of garlicky and savory flavors that will make it difficult for everyone to resist.
Spread asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and garlic. Roast in the oven until asparagus are tender and garlic is golden brown. This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute Easter side dish.
10. Garlic Knot Rolls
Garlic knot rolls are a popular appetizer that everyone loves. They are cute, small, and pack a lot of flavor. To make garlic knot rolls, form pre-made or homemade pizza dough into small knot shapes, then brush with garlic and butter.
Pop them into the oven for about ten minutes until golden brown. They’re perfect for dunking in warm marinara sauce.