Easter weekend, for those who celebrate, is one of the first true moments of spring entertaining - longer days, fresh flavors, and a table built around a meal worth gathering for. You don’t need elaborate plans to make it feel special.
A delicious Easter meal begins with a special main dish. While flowers, place settings, and thoughtful details add to the atmosphere, the centerpiece is what gives the meal its sense of celebration.
Ham and lamb are Easter classics, but they’re not the only way to create a memorable table. Salmon can feel just as special, especially for a spring meal that’s a little lighter.
Here are our butcher-approved tips for cooking and serving your Easter main.
Ham: Traditional, Generous, and Easy to Serve
Ham has long been a traditional centerpiece of Easter for good reason. It serves a crowd easily, satisfies a range of tastes, and looks abundant at the center of the table. It also makes the next meal just a little easier if you have leftovers.
Pro tips for serving:
· Partially slice before serving, then bring it to the table, this keeps the presentation intact while making it easy for guests to help themselves
· Carve against the grain in even slices, then fan slices slightly on the platter
· Keep it warm without drying it out by loosely tenting with foil until you’re ready to serve
· Serve with something bright or sharp like mustard, pickled vegetables, or a citrus glaze to balance the richness
Lamb: A Distinctive Holiday Centerpiece
Lamb brings a deeper, more distinctive flavor to the table, making it a great option when you want something a little different from the expected. Whether roasted or grilled, it pairs beautifully with fresh, spring sides.
Pro tips for a flavorful main dish:
· Rub with garlic, rosemary, and a generous pinch of salt before cooking to create a golden, flavorful crust while the inside stays tender and juicy.
· Let it rest 10–15 minutes before slicing so the juices stay in the meat, not on the cutting board
Salmon: A Fresh Spring Alternative
If you want something a little lighter for Easter brunch or dinner, salmon is an excellent choice. It is versatile, cooks quickly, serves easily, and pairs naturally with bright flavors like lemon, herbs, and spring vegetables.
Pro tips for a lighter main dish:
· Use pre-portioned fillets for easy, consistent serving - individual portions cook evenly and plate cleanly
· Lean into its versatility depending on your set up: grill for a smoky finish, roast on a sheet pan for easy cleanup, or pan-sear for a crisp exterior
· Pair with asparagus, grains, roasted potatoes, or a crisp salad to create a complete meal without overthinking sides
A memorable Easter meal isn’t about doing more; it’s about serving something special and creating space for people to enjoy it together.
With a centerpiece that feels generous and a few simple touches, your table becomes more than a place to eat. It becomes the heart of the celebration.