As the sun sets on Holy Week, families and friends come together to celebrate the significance of Good Friday. A meaningful feast can be a powerful way to deepen our faith and bring people closer together. This year, why not try something new and delicious with your loved ones? From traditional hot cross buns to innovative seafood dishes and hearty vegetable stews, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes to help you create a truly unforgettable Good Friday feast.
Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze
Warm up your winter mornings with these fragrant Hot Cross Buns, infused with the sweetness of orange and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, salt, melted butter, egg, orange marmalade, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into buns and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Orange Glaze:
– Mix equal parts orange marmalade and powdered sugar in a small bowl.
– Drizzle over warm buns before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy baked cod recipe, infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic powder.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon
A flavorful and indulgent salmon dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and thyme.
5. Spoon the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of the Mediterranean, creating a delicious and healthy dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, water or broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with the classic comfort food of lasagna, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant, zucchinis, and red bell pepper with garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast vegetables for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering roasted vegetables, lasagna noodles, and tomato mixture.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Savor the flavors of garlic, butter, and succulent shrimp on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Potato and Leek Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy potatoes, sweet leeks, and fragrant herbs, making it a comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this recipe combines the rich taste of grilled salmon with the tropical twist of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Stir well to combine.
6. Serve grilled salmon with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Satisfy your pasta cravings with these creamy, cheesy shells packed with spinach and ricotta goodness.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful Tomato Basil Bruschetta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. While the bread is baking, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic in a bowl.
6. Remove the bread from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Spoon the tomato mixture over the toasted bread rounds.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Tilapia with Lemon Caper Sauce
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic fish dish, this baked tilapia is paired with a tangy lemon caper sauce that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until fish is cooked through.
6. While the fish is baking, combine lemon juice and chopped capers in a small bowl.
7. Remove fish from oven and spoon lemon caper sauce over each fillet.
8. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, featuring roasted vegetables and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish that combines Arborio rice with sautéed mushrooms, white wine, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, when rice is creamy and tender, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of fresh asparagus with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and aromatic roasted chicken recipe, infused with the warmth of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Avocado and Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, chickpeas, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None!
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Transform your pasta game with this refreshing summer dish! Pesto Zucchini Noodles is a light and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini noodles and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat.
4. Roast the zucchini noodles in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
5. In a large bowl, combine the roasted zucchini noodles and pesto sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with Herbs
This recipe brings together the sweetness of tomatoes and the savory flavors of herbs, all wrapped up in a delicious package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 large tomatoes
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Sweet and savory, this tart combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Brush edges with beaten egg.
4. Arrange onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them. Sprinkle goat cheese over the onions.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush top of tart with remaining egg and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Good Friday feast with these 20 heavenly recipes! From sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze to savory dishes like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers, Lentil and Spinach Stew, and Roasted Vegetable Lasagna. These mouth-watering recipes are sure to make your Good Friday celebration even more meaningful. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a veggie fan, there’s a dish here that’s sure to please.
