Easter in Italy is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and, of course, incredible food. At Mercato, we believe in bringing the heart of Italian cuisine to your table, and there’s no better time than Easter to indulge in a feast full of rich flavours and time-honoured recipes. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or preparing a more intimate meal, we have everything you need to create an authentic Italian Easter spread.
The Easter Antipasti
No Italian meal begins without a selection of antipasti, and Easter is no exception. Start your feast with a beautiful charcuterie board featuring:
Prosciutto di Parma, soppressata, and mortadella
A selection of Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano and fresh ricotta
Marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers
Freshly baked focaccia and grissini (breadsticks)
All of these are available at Mercato, ensuring an authentic start to your Easter gathering.
The First Course: Traditional Italian Easter Pasta
Pasta is a must at any Italian celebration, and for Easter, a few classic dishes shine:
Lasagna alla Napoletana – A rich, layered dish made with meatballs, ricotta, mozzarella, and tomato sauce. This southern favourite is a true showstopper.
Tortellini in Brodo – A simple yet comforting broth-based pasta dish, perfect for those who prefer a lighter first course.
Gnocchi with Lamb Ragu – A rustic and flavourful option featuring tender, slow-cooked lamb sauce over pillowy gnocchi.
At Mercato, we offer everything you need to help you recreate these classic dishes at home.
The Main Course: Lamb and Beyond
Lamb is the star of the Italian Easter table, symbolizing renewal and tradition. Popular dishes include:
Abbacchio al Forno – Roasted lamb with garlic, rosemary, and potatoes, a Roman specialty that never disappoints.
Agnello Cacciatore – Lamb stewed with tomatoes, white wine, and herbs, offering a rich and hearty flavour.
For those who prefer an alternative to lamb, baked ham with a honey glaze or a stuffed pork loin are excellent choices. Our market carries high-quality meats and marinades to make preparation effortless.
Easter Side Dishes
No Easter meal is complete without delicious sides. Some favourites include:
Carciofi alla Romana – Roman-style artichokes braised with garlic and parsley.
Torta Pasqualina – A savory Easter pie filled with spinach, ricotta, and eggs, perfect for a springtime celebration.
Roasted Spring Vegetables – Seasonal produce like asparagus, carrots, and fennel roasted with olive oil and sea salt.
The Sweet Ending: Traditional Italian Easter Desserts
Save room for dessert because Italian Easter sweets are not to be missed! Some must-have treats include:
Colomba di Pasqua – The Italian Easter dove-shaped cake, similar to panettone, with a soft, fluffy texture and a crunchy almond topping.
Pastiera Napoletana – A classic Neapolitan ricotta and wheat pie, delicately flavoured with orange blossom water.
Taralli Dolci – Light, glazed Easter cookies with hints of lemon and vanilla.
At Mercato, we have a wide selection of freshly baked cakes, traditional sweets, and delicious chocolates to make your Easter extra special.
Celebrate Easter the Italian Way with Mercato
Whether you’re preparing a full-course Easter feast or just picking up a few special ingredients, Mercato is your go-to destination for authentic Italian flavours. Stop by to find everything you need to make this Easter truly delizioso!
Buona Pasqua from all of us at Mercato!