Menu Planning: Celebrating Spring

Besides celebrating the beginning of Spring, March brings with it reasons to host and/or celebrate two occasions during the month. Whether you’re menu planning to honor Irish traditions or to embrace the joys of Easter brunch, having a delicious meal plan for one or both occasions is key to creating a seamless and stress-free celebration for you and your guests.

Celebrating the Season: Holiday-Themed Menu Ideas for March

This March we have the opportunity to plan for the festive flavors of a St. Patrick’s Day dinner and an Easter brunch. This fun-filled combination presents a great opportunity to craft a menu that celebrates the richness of Irish cuisine while welcoming spring and all if offers for the season. Here’s an idea of what a holiday-themed March menu can offer for both St. Patrick’s Day and Easter brunch.

St. Patrick’s Day Menu Planning

While the type of meals served in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day may vary by region and family traditions, there are certain meals that we identify with for St. Patrick’s Day. As always, the best meal is one geared towards your family’s preferences, but don’t be afraid to try something new as well.

Menu Ideas for St. Patrick’s Day

Corn Beef and Cabbage with Herbed Butter Potatoes
Irish Stew
Colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale)
Irish Soda Bread Muffins
Mint Brownies
Guinness Chocolate Cake

Easter Brunch Menu Planning

Traditional Easter brunch menus vary depending on cultural and regional influences, but some common dish ideas often served for Easter may inspire your meal choices. Celebrate the season by incorporating a variety of dishes to your brunch menu – and be sure to include some dessert options, too.

Menu Ideas for Easter

Five Stress-Free Tips for Hosting

Whether you’re cooking for your family or for guests, here are a few tips to consider when planning your menu. Get others involved to help make hosting your celebrations as easy as possible.

Plan Ahead: Check what is in your pantry and create a detailed menu plan for the occasion, complete with a shopping list. This will help you shop more efficiently and avoid any last-minute stress. Be sure to take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences when planning your menu.
Preparation Is Key: Choose recipes that can be partially or fully prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen. Dishes that can be served at room temperature or easily reheated are also a time saver.
Delegate Tasks: If you’re hosting the gathering, be sure to enlist the help of family members or friends. Assign specific meal tasks ahead of time or have someone aid in preparing and serving the meal.
Add Festive Touches: Decorate for your event. Seasonal decorations, like St. Patrick’s Day tableware and/or Easter tableware, add a fun touch to your celebration. Fresh flowers or even St. Patrick’s Day balloons or Easter garland add that something extra to your celebration. And, decorations are the perfect task to delegate!
Enjoy the Moment: The most important part of any gathering is spending time with your loved ones. Relax, don’t stress over minor details, and be sure to enjoy the moment so you create lasting memories.

Celebrate (and Meal Prep) In Style

With practical tips for entertaining and holiday menu planning ideas, you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Easter in style. Let your menu be a reflection of how you celebrate together. Here’s to a month filled with delicious meals and desserts. And, be sure to check back monthly for more menu planning and meal inspiration for other nights of the week.