Easter in Italy is more than a religious observance; it’s a celebration deeply rooted in tradition, family and food. Across the country, families gather to mark the end of Lent with a lavish Sunday meal. Tables are filled with dishes that honor both the season and the heritage of regional cuisine. From north to south, each Italian region brings its own flair to Easter cuisine, but one constant remains: meals prepared with love and shared in good company.

Antipasti to start: Traditional Italian Appetizers for Easter

No Italian feast begins without a selection of antipasti. At Easter, these appetizers take on a special spring flair. Common dishes include hard-boiled eggs topped with anchovy fillets, a symbol of rebirth and simplicity. Stuffed artichokes, marinated vegetables and rustic Easter pies such as Torta Pasqualina (a savory pie filled with spinach, eggs and ricotta) are served in abundance. These appetizers not only tantalize the palate, but also pay homage to Italy’s seasonal bounty.

Classic Italian Easter Courses

Easter Sunday is synonymous with hearty and comforting main courses. Perhaps the most traditional dish is abbacchio al forno, a Roman-style roast lamb seasoned with garlic, rosemary and olive oil. In southern regions, you may find stuffed meat rolls known as involtini, filled with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Pasta al forno, a baked pasta dish topped with meat sauce and cheese, is also common. These main courses, rich in flavor and tradition, serve as the centerpiece of the Easter celebration.

Fresh pasta on the Easter table

Fresh pasta holds a place of honor at Easter, especially when filled with delicate, creamy ricotta or paired with spring vegetables. In many homes, family members gather days before the holiday to make ravioli, tagliatelle, or lasagna sheets from scratch. These handmade pastas are typically served with lamb ragu, butter and sage, or a simple tomato-basil sauce.

For those celebrating in South Florida or Las Vegas, Mercato della Pescheria offers a delightful way to enjoy fresh pasta on Easter Day. The restaurant specializes in authentic Italian dishes, including handmade pastas that honor tradition while showcasing seasonal ingredients. Its lively atmosphere and flavorful menu make it a wonderful place to experience the flavors of Italy during the holiday.

Must-try Italian Easter side dishes

Side dishes at Easter complement main courses with freshness and texture. Roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary, garlic and olive oil are a staple. Spring vegetables such as asparagus and peas are often sautéed with pancetta or served in light lemon dressings. Another favorite is focaccia, a soft, yeasty bread baked with herbs or olives, perfect for soaking up sauces.

Traditional Italian Easter Desserts

Italian Easter wouldn’t be complete without an array of sweets. One of the most iconic is Colomba di Pasqua, a dove-shaped cake similar to panettone but topped with crunchy almonds and sugar. In Naples, the Pastiera Napoletana reigns supreme – a cake made with cooked wheat, ricotta cheese, and orange blossom water. In Sicily, cassatina is a mini version of cassata cake, with layers of sponge cake, sweetened ricotta, and colorful frosting. These desserts provide a sweet ending to a rich and joyful meal.

The role of eggs in Italian Easter cuisine

Eggs feature prominently in Italian Easter cuisine, both as a symbolic ingredient and as a culinary staple. Representing rebirth and renewal, eggs are woven into dishes ranging from woven Easter breads to savory pies. Hard-boiled eggs are often used in antipasti and placed in the center of rustic breads. In many regions, sweet breads are decorated with whole eggs, sometimes colored, embedded in the dough before baking.

Italian Easter recipes to bring home

Hosting an Italian Easter feast at home can be a rewarding and festive experience. Start with some simple antipasti like marinated artichokes or hard-boiled eggs with herbs. Move on to a homemade lasagna or a roast lamb recipe with garlic and rosemary. Don’t forget the sides: lemony asparagus, crispy potatoes, and freshly baked focaccia add charm and depth to the table. For dessert, try baking a pastiera or colomba to bring the authentic flavors of Italy to your kitchen.

Celebrate Easter the Italian way at Mercato della Pescheria

For those who want to enjoy a true Italian Easter without the prep work, Mercato della Pescheria offers a wonderful alternative. With locations in Miami and Las Vegas, the restaurant brings Italy to your table with handmade pastas, classic entrees, and seasonal dishes that nod to tradition. From comforting lasagna to vibrant spring risotto, you’ll find the spirit of Easter alive in every bite. An Easter Day reservation promises an experience that is both festive and delicious. 

Ready to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine? Reserve your table at Mercato Della Pescheria in Miami here or Las Vegas here and taste the flavors of Italy!

Italian Easter recipes reflect centuries of culture, tradition and culinary passion. They are a beautiful expression of spring and spiritual renewal, meant to be shared with family and friends. No matter if you’re cooking at home or dining out at a restaurant like Mercato della Pescheria, embracing these recipes means embracing a piece of Italy’s heart. This Easter, let your table be filled with the joy, flavor and tradition of an Italian celebration.