An Italian Easter often centers on family and a generous spring table. This menu keeps the spirit while staying manageable: a self-serve bellini start, a light artichoke risotto for the primo, a peppery arugula–tomato salad over ricotta, a classic roast of lamb, and a simple dessert to close. To set a festive tone, pour something bubbly—try a playful twist like the refreshing Prosecco Float for an easy aperitivo bar.
Aperitivo: DIY Bellini Bar
Invite guests to build their own bellinis with chilled prosecco and a few seasonal fruit purees (peach, strawberry, or pear). Offer thin citrus slices and herbs for garnish. Keep everything on ice so arrivals can serve themselves and settle in without waiting on the host.
If you want a zero-fuss alternative on the drink station, batch a light spritz or set out a make-ahead cooler beside the prosecco—something bright and celebratory akin to a slushy spritz or float works beautifully in spring.
Primo: Artichoke Risotto
A creamy risotto fits the holiday without feeling heavy. Use tender artichokes and mild spring alliums, adding warm stock gradually while stirring for silkiness. Finish with lemon zest and a little Parmigiano-Reggiano. For another spring-forward idea in the same spirit, see the artichoke-studded risotto variation here: Artichoke & Brussels Sprout Brown Rice Risotto.
Insalata: Arugula & Tomato Over Ricotta
Layer a cloud of lightly salted ricotta on a platter, then tumble peppery arugula and ripe tomatoes on top. Dress simply with extra-virgin olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of flaky salt. For another tomato-forward salad to complement the table, consider Roman Caprese Salad with its classic balance of acidity and cream.
Secondo: Roast Leg of Lamb
A leg of lamb is a traditional centerpiece. Rub with garlic, rosemary, lemon, and olive oil; season generously with salt and pepper. Roast until blushing pink inside, then rest before carving. Pair with simple pan juices and a bright, herb-heavy salsa verde if you want a fresh counterpoint.
Dolce: Sweet, Light Finish
Close with a dessert that nods to spring—citrus, berries, or vanilla-forward creams all fit the bill. If ricotta is your theme, delicate cookies or chilled creams keep things effortless for the cook.
Two easy, make-ahead friendly options: zesty Lemon Ricotta Cookies for a bright cookie tray, or a gently set Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries for a spoonable finish.
Make It Doable
Choose one drink, one primo, one salad, one roast, and one dessert; prep what you can a day ahead (purees, salad components, dessert). Keep the cooking window focused on the risotto and the roast, and let the rest be self-serve or already chilled. The result is an Easter spread with Giada’s spirit—generous, bright, and relaxed.
