Easter is a time for celebration, but it can be tough for those who can’t afford a lavish meal. If you’re searching for a free Easter dinner near you, we’ve got you covered with two delightful recipes that won’t break the bank.
Recipe 1: Creamy Garlic Shrimp
If you’re a seafood lover, this dish is perfect for you. The creamy garlic shrimp is not only delicious, but it’s also a quick and easy recipe to make. And the best part? You can get all the ingredients for free at your local food bank.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the shrimp are fully coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 327
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 23g
- Cholesterol: 316mg
- Sodium: 745mg
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over a bed of rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Variations:
Try this recipe with different types of seafood, such as scallops or crab. You can also add some vegetables, like spinach or roasted red peppers, to the sauce for extra flavor.
Substitutions:
If you can’t find heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Romano or Asiago, instead of Parmesan.
Storage:
Store any leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips:
- Make sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or sand.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp, or they will become tough and rubbery.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add some chicken or vegetable broth to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the creamy garlic shrimp ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just be sure to add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce to loosen it up.
Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Ham
Ham is a classic Easter dish, and this slow cooker recipe makes it incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that will feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, molasses, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cloves.
- Pour the glaze over the ham in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Baste the ham with the glaze every hour or so to keep it moist.
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 461
- Protein: 44g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 131mg
- Sodium: 2061mg
Cooking Time:
6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Whisk
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the slow cooker ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls.
Variations:
You can adjust the amount of sugar in the glaze to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter ham, add more brown sugar or honey. If you like it less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar and molasses.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use regular yellow mustard instead. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
Storage:
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months.
Tips:
- Make sure to choose a ham that fits in your slow cooker. A 5-7 pound ham is perfect for a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- If you want a crispier exterior, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a bone-in ham?
- Yes, you can use a bone-in ham. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in hams take longer to cook.
- Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can bake the ham in the oven instead. Preheat the oven to 325°F and place the ham in a roasting pan. Brush the glaze over the ham and bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Both of these recipes are not only delicious, but they are also budget-friendly and easy to make. Whether you’re searching for a free Easter dinner near you or just want to try something new, these dishes are sure to impress. So why not give them a try and enjoy a festive meal with your loved ones?