Get ready to transform your Easter celebration from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering modern menu that promises to tantalize taste buds and create unforgettable memories! Imagine a spread that combines a perfectly glazed ham, vibrant roasted vegetables, creamy potato salad, fresh green salad, and a decadent carrot cake - all paired with a crisp white wine that elevates the entire dining experience. This isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that will have your family and friends talking long after the last bite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Various
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 glazed ham
- 2 cups roasted vegetables
- 1 potato salad
- 1 green salad
- 1 carrot cake
- 1 bottle white wine
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) for the glazed ham. This will ensure that the ham cooks evenly and develops a beautiful glaze.
- Prepare the glazed ham by placing it on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. If your ham comes with a glaze packet, set it aside for later. If not, you can make a simple glaze using honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix these ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat. Brush the glaze generously over the ham, ensuring that it gets into the scored areas.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately
- 5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- While the ham is baking, prepare the roasted vegetables. Chop your choice of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (like rosemary or thyme) on a baking sheet.
- Once the ham has been in the oven for about 30 minutes, add the baking sheet with the vegetables to the oven. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- For the potato salad, peel and dice about 2 pounds of potatoes. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, then drain and let them cool. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped green onions, celery, and hard-boiled eggs. Once the potatoes are cool, fold them into the dressing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the green salad by combining mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and avocado in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
- For dessert, bake the carrot cake by mixing together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, grated carrots, and crushed pineapple in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vegetable oil, then combine with the dry ingredients until just mixed. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once the carrot cake is cooled, frost it with cream cheese frosting made from cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- As the meal comes together, chill a bottle of white wine in the refrigerator to serve alongside the meal. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors of the Easter menu.
- Once everything is prepared, slice the glazed ham and arrange it on a large serving platter. Serve the roasted vegetables, potato salad, and green salad in separate bowls, and present the carrot cake as a delightful centerpiece for dessert.
- Enjoy this modern and delicious Easter menu with family and friends, creating wonderful memories around the table.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always preheat your oven and use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking temperatures.
- Prep in Advance: Many components of this menu can be prepared hours before guests arrive, reducing last-minute stress.
- Glaze Mastery: For the ham, create a homemade glaze and apply it generously, scoring the surface to help flavors penetrate.
- Vegetable Roasting Tip: Cut vegetables uniformly and don't overcrowd the baking sheet for perfect caramelization.
- Salad Freshness: Dress your green salad just before serving to keep ingredients crisp and vibrant.
- Cake Perfection: Let your carrot cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a smooth finish.
- Wine Pairing: Chill your white wine to the right temperature (around 45-50°F) for optimal flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg