As Easter approaches, it’s time to start planning a special dinner for your loved ones. If you’re looking for some inspiration, look no further than Portland, Maine! This charming coastal city is known for its seafood, but it also boasts a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of options for your Easter feast. Whether you’re a fan of traditional dishes or looking for something new, we’ve got you covered with two delicious recipes that will impress even the most discerning palate.
Recipe 1: Lobster Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sherry
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and white pepper until smooth.
- Add the milk gradually, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the sherry.
- Add the lobster meat and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 375
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 586mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 15g
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Pie dish
- Oven
Serving Suggestions:
This rich and creamy pie is best served with a simple side salad and some crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Variations:
If you don’t have access to fresh lobster, you can substitute with canned or frozen lobster meat. You can also swap the sherry for white wine or brandy.
Substitutions:
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use milk instead of cream and reduce the amount of butter. You can also use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips:
Make sure to remove any bits of shell from the lobster meat before adding it to the sauce. You can also add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or dill, for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze this pie?
- Can I use other seafood?
- Can I make this ahead of time?
If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below!
Recipe 2: Blueberry Crumble
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Spread the blueberries evenly in a 9-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the blueberries.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbling.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 31g
Protein: 3g
Cooking Time:
30-35 minutes
Equipment:
- Baking dish
- Oven
Serving Suggestions:
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Variations:
You can substitute the blueberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries. You can also add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for extra crunch.
Substitutions:
If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free oats and flour. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips:
If using frozen blueberries, make sure to thaw them before using. You can also add some lemon zest or juice for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned blueberries?
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Can I use other types of fruit?
If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below!
Personal Thoughts
Both of these recipes are perfect for a special occasion like Easter dinner. The lobster pie is rich and indulgent, while the blueberry crumble is a lighter but still delicious option for dessert. I love how easy both of these dishes are to make, and they both showcase the best of Maine’s local ingredients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make them your own!
In conclusion, if you’re looking for some inspiration for your Easter dinner in Portland, Maine, these two recipes are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for celebrating with your loved ones.