Greek Orthodox Easter Dinner
A Feast of Spring Lamb, Rice Stuffing, and Spinach Pie
Easter dinner is a traditional feast in Greek-American homes that brings back the flavors of the old country.
Easter dinner in the Greek tradition features lamb and all its accoutrements. It is invariably surrounded by roast potatoes, rice, spinach pie, Greek salad, and many other culinary delights.
Spring Lamb Takes Center Stage
The lamb is always a young, spring lamb. In the old days in the old country it would have been roasted whole over a spit. Today, it’s usually a leg of lamb washed with lemon juice to help crust the lamb as it’s roasting. Garlic cloves are slipped into slits in the meat. A sprinkling of oregano adds the ultimate Greek flair. Finally, the roast is sprinkled with salt and pepper, and it’s ready for the oven.
Hearty Sides Dishes Delight the Palate
The spinach pie—spanakopita—is a labor of love. While it’s not difficult to make, it’s time consuming. The layers of filo dough must each be brushed with butter that has been softened to room temperature. Frozen chopped spinach is defrosted and squeezed to remove excess moisture. Add feta cheese, eggs, a touch of mint, and mix. Eight layers of filo go on the bottom of the pan, the spinach mixture, then eight more layers of filo.
The rice can be made as a stuffing for a whole lamb or finished in a pot on the stove. Sauté chopped onions, grated carrots, and chopped celery. Then add rice and brown lightly. Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper and cover until the rice is almost cooked. Toss in pine nuts and raisins. The dish is rich and serves as a satisfying accompaniment to the lamb.
The Greek salad provides a light touch and helps balance the meal. Any variety of lettuce will do, preferably a type of leaf lettuce. The greens are tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano. Add some kalamata olives and feta cheese, and it’s ready for the table.
The Feasting Continues
Desert can’t be ignored for a Greek meal. There are a variety of options. Baklava is a favorite in many families, featuring more filo dough layered with ground nuts and soaked in honey or syrup. A lighter choice is a dense cake made with farina and also soaked in syrup.
After the forty-day fast from meat and dairy products, this meal does more than break the fast. The traditional Greek dinner brings family and friends together for a resurrection celebration that lasts sometimes from morning until late at night. Add a nice red wine to the table, and let the feasting begin!
For more about Greek cooking, see Greek Spinach Pie and Greek Potato Salad.
The Centerpiece of Easter Dinner
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