Easter dinner is right around the corner. And it’s one of those meals that requires a bit of preparation to pull it off.

But it doesn’t HAVE to be formal. Or it can be. You get to choose what kind of holiday you want to have.

Here are some fantastic ideas for Easter meals that range from “easy afternoon” (think sandwiches) and “make-ahead casual” (shrimp cocktail, anyone?) to formal ham dinners, Southern lunch and even an Easter breakfast buffet!

With all these complete Easter Dinner choices you’re bound to find a menu that fits your family, your taste and your mood.

Above all, make it memorable – whatever that means for you. Isn’t that what holidays are all about?

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

You had a beautiful ham dinner.

Now it’s over. What are you going to do with what’s left – just reheat it?

No way!

Try this yummy ham and beans recipe that makes great use of your leftover ham and combines it with delicious flavors and makes it feel like an entirely new meal.

That’s because it is!

Don’t get stuck in the heat and repeat rut. Give that ham a makeover and create something that’s different.

This time of year calls for lots of ham dinners (Easter, springtime get-togethers/celebrations) so let’s make the most of them!

Get ready to ham it up!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Prime Rib is so divine, in my house, it’s usually reserved for very special occasions – Christmas, a special dinner party, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve … you get the picture.

I can’t ever remember a time when I decided to cook one on a regular old Tuesday night.

But why?

We love it so much, ANY day could be a special occasion. Its flavor and aroma is so, so tempting. I don’t know why we wait so long in between indulgences.

I can see it now. My husband walks in and smells the Prime Rib Roast cooking and he immediately is perplexed and suspicious.

“Is there something you need to tell me?” he’ll ask.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Let’s get out of our routine-ified ruts. Let’s branch out a little!

Next Tuesday or Wednesday or Thursday why not cook a Prime Rib Roast just because?

If anything, those days need a little pick-me-up. I know mine do.

Need a little help in the preparation department? Here’s a great page of Prime Rib cooking instructions.

Enjoy your life! And sweeten the deal for the people you love. Give ’em Prime Rib!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.