Easter on a Budget: Delicious Feast Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Easter is a time of celebration, and the feast is always a central part of the festivities. But hosting an Easter meal doesn’t have to strain your wallet. With a bit of creativity and some savvy shopping, you can prepare a spread that’s as economical as it is exquisite. Here we’ll take a look at budget-friendly Easter feast ideas that’ll allow you to celebrate the holiday with all the traditional flavours you love, without overspending…

1. Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken: Instead of the traditional lamb or ham, opt for a roast chicken. It’s often much more cost-effective and can be just as festive when prepared with flair. Rub the chicken with a mix of fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with garlic and olive oil for a fragrant and juicy centrepiece that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas.

2. Vegetable Frittata: Eggs are not only an Easter symbol but also an affordable ingredient. Create a colourful frittata using seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, spinach, and bell peppers. This versatile dish can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for an Easter brunch or dinner, and it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies.

3. Potato and Leek Gratin: Potatoes and leeks are inexpensive and can be transformed into an elegant, creamy gratin. Thinly slice the potatoes and sauté the leeks until tender, layer them in a baking dish with cheese and a simple béchamel sauce, and bake until golden. This comforting side dish is sure to please a crowd.

4. Homemade Hot Cross Buns: Bake your own batch of hot cross buns for a fraction of the cost of store-bought ones. These spiced sweet buns dotted with raisins or currants are a traditional Easter treat. Making them at home allows you to enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results without the hefty price tag.

5. Spring Pea and Mint Soup: Celebrate the season with a vibrant spring pea and mint soup. Peas are affordable, especially when bought frozen, and when blended with fresh mint and vegetable stock, they create a refreshing and light starter that encapsulates the essence of spring.

6. Glazed Carrots with Honey and Dill: Carrots are a budget-friendly vegetable that can be turned into a delectable side dish with minimal effort. Glaze them with a mixture of honey, butter, and a sprinkle of dill to enhance their natural sweetness. This simple yet sophisticated dish adds a pop of colour and a touch of elegance to your Easter table.

7. Devilled Eggs with a Twist: Eggs are a staple of Easter and making devilled eggs is an economical way to create a crowd-pleasing appetiser. Give them a twist by adding ingredients like avocado, bacon bits, or pickled relish to the yolk mixture. Not only are they inexpensive to make, but they also offer the opportunity for creative presentation.