Category

Salads

Fresh & Flavorful Easter Menu Inspiration

By | Desserts, Easter, Fruit, Ham, Local, Local and Specialty, Meats, Pork, Poultry, Produce, Salads, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

Spring hasn’t sprung yet, but hopefully it will SOON, and with it comes the joyful celebration of Easter! It’s that egg-stra special time of the year when the world bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors, heralding new beginnings and fresh starts. As chefs we find ourselves inspired by the season’s bounty, eager to create menus that reflect the vibrancy of spring.

In this blog, we’re hopping into the kitchen to whip up an array of Easter dish menu inspo to impress your guests. From classic favorites to new twists on traditional dishes, we’ll explore menu options and then deliver all the fresh ingredients you need!


Starters

Deviled Eggs

A classic starter made with fresh eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a dash of paprika. Perfect for Easter, these eggs symbolize new beginnings and are a hit for their creamy texture and savory taste. Get creative by adding a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. Try piping the filling for an elegant touch.

  • Eggs – Non-GMO, Free-Range – 15 dozen – item #80005
  • Mayonnaise – Kewpie – 17oz bottle – item #90160
  • Dijon Mustard – Clovis – 12/7 oz – item #95211
  • Smoked Paprika – La Chinata – 750G – item #96619

Smoked Salmon Platter

The rich, velvety smoked salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy capers and the crisp bite of red onion. Spread a dollop of cream cheese on a cracker, top it with salmon and capers, and you’ve got yourself a bite-sized delight. For a creative twist, arrange the salmon in rose shapes – it’s a platter that’s as delightful to look at as it is to devour! Ideal for a spring menu, its light and refreshing taste pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines. Serve on artisan bread or blinis for an elegant touch.

  • Smoked Salmon – Kendall Brook – 2-3Lb – item #48725
  • Capers – Nonpareil – 32oz Jar – item #90508
  • Red Onion – Diced 2/5 Lb Cs – item #70015
  • Cream Cheese – Smithfield 10X3 Lb Cs – item #91160

Spring Pea Soup

Spring is in the air and in Spring Pea Soup! Made with the freshest of peas, be they fresh or frozen, this soup is a vibrant green ode to the season. Infused with the delicate flavors of mint, onion, and garlic, and simmered in a rich vegetable broth, it’s a light yet flavorful start to your Easter feast. For a gourmet twist, add a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

  • Peas – Frozen 12/2.5 Lb – item #07773
  • Vegetable Base – Sauteed – 16oz Tub – item #21754
  • Fresh Mint – 1/4 Lb – item #40052
  • Onion – Diced Yellow – 2/5 Lb Cs – item #70032
  • Garlic – Peeled Domestic – 5 Lb Jar – item #70121

Spring Salad

A mix of greens, strawberries, goat cheese, candied pecans, and balsamic vinaigrette. The sweetness of the strawberries complements the tangy goat cheese, making it a refreshing choice for a spring day. Tip: Toss the greens with the vinaigrette right before serving to keep them crisp, and add the strawberries and pecans on top to maintain their texture. Toss in some edible flowers for a pop of color.

  • Spring Mix – Eden Valley – 2/1.5 Lb – item #19040
  • Strawberries – KY Greenhouse -10/12oz – item #34010
  • Goat Cheese – Crumbles 2/2Lb Cs – item #96537
  • Pecans – Raw Pieces – 2 Lb Bag – item #95322
  • Fig Balsamic – 8.45oz Bottle – item #29869

Main Course

Roast Lamb

Lamb is a traditional Easter dish, symbolizing spring and renewal and an Easter menu wouldn’t be complete without a show-stopping roast lamb. We recommend the succulent Freedom Run Farm leg of lamb, rubbed with a medley of garlic, rosemary, and thyme, then roasted to perfection. Let the lamb rest before carving to ensure each slice is juicy and full of flavor. Serve with a side of mint sauce or red wine reduction.

  • Freedom Run Farm Leg of Lamb – 2 Ct Cs – item #62505
  • Rosemary – Hydro-grown in OH – 1oz – item #19141
  • Thyme – Fresh 1/4 Lb – item #40043
  • Salt – Bourbon Smoked KY 18oz – item #96002
  • Pepper – Bourbon Smoked KY 7.5oz – item #97093

Honey Glazed Ham

Sweet, savory, and irresistibly delicious, Honey Glazed Ham is a crowd-pleaser. The glaze, a blend of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cloves, caramelizes beautifully, giving the ham a glossy finish and a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it with some spring greens or a side of scalloped potatoes, and watch it disappear faster than an Easter egg on a hunt! For a unique twist, try adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze.

  • Ham – Spiral Sliced Halves 4CT-9Lb Avg – item #00447
  • Honey – Wildflower Local 16oz Jar – item #19304
  • Sugar – Bourbon Smoked 13oz Jar – item #97222
  • Cloves – Hand-picked, Whole 14oz – item #97028

Herb Roasted Chicken

For a lighter yet equally festive option, Herb Roasted Chicken is a menu must. Seasoned with a mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, roasted to golden perfection with a crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat. It’s a dish that’s both simple and elegant. A pro tip: roast the chicken on a bed of vegetables for an all-in-one dish that’s bursting with flavors and colors.

  • Whole Chicken – Joyce Farms 3Lb/12 Ct – item #97671
  • Rosemary – Hydro-grown in OH – 1oz – item #19141
  • Thyme – Fresh – 1/4 Lb – item #40043
  • Garlic – Peeled Domestic – 5 Lb Jar – item #70121

Vegetarian Lasagna

Layered with seasonal vegetables, ricotta, and a rich tomato sauce. A great meat-free option that’s hearty and satisfying. Consider using grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added depth of flavor. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

  • Spinach – Baby Cleaned – 4 Lc Cs – item #20280
  • Zucchini – 1/2 Bushel – item #20604
  • Mushrooms – Exotic Sliced – 5 Lb Cs – item #30906
  • Basil – Fresh – 1/4 Lb – item #40037
  • Ricotta – Polly-O – 5 Lb Tub – item #91094
  • Mozzarella – Shredded – 5 Lb Bag – item #91151
  • Marinara Sauce – Brownwood Farms in Athens, OH 6/16oz – item #22588
  • Lasagna Noodles – Lotsa Pasta Frozen – 5 Lb Slab – item #95621

Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Brighten up your Easter table with Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce. The salmon, cooked to flaky perfection, is complemented by a zesty lemon-dill sauce that adds a refreshing hit of flavor. It’s a dish that’s light yet satisfying, and the sauce is a game changer – creamy, tangy, and herby.

  • Salmon Fillets – Center-cut, skin-off 6oz – item #49106
  • Fresh Dill – 1/4 Lb – item #40038
  • Lemon – 12 Each – item #04019
  • Butter – Beurremont 83% – 1 Lb Log – item #93069
  • Cream – Snowville (OH) 9/16oz – item #18643

Sides

Scalloped Potatoes

A classic side that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbly – it’s comfort food that’s perfect for an Easter feast. For best results, slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

  • Thinly Sliced Potatoes – Peeled & Sliced 1/4″ – 20 LB Cs – item #17208
  • Heavy Cream – 36% – Quart – item #16407
  • Garlic – Chopped, In Water – 32oz – item #70111
  • Cheddar Cheese – Feather Shred – 5 Lb – item #15418
  • Thyme – Dried – 6oz Jar – item #97124

Roasted Asparagus

As spring’s favorite vegetable, our Roasted Asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for Easter. Drizzled with olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and roasted until tender-crisp, these green spears are a healthy addition to your feast. The key to perfection is not to overcook them – they should retain a bit of crunch. A sprinkle of lemon zest or Parmesan cheese just before serving can add a bright or savory note to this delightful side.

  • Fresh Asparagus – Large – 11Lb Cs – item #20080
  • Olive Oil – EVOO w/ Lemon – 6/250ml – item #95434
  • Lemon Zest – Ravifruit – 1.12Lb Tub – item #95877
  • Parmesan Cheese – Middlefield – 12/8oz – item #25844

Honey-Glazed Carrots

Add a touch of sweetness to your table with our Honey-glazed Carrots. This dish transforms the humble carrot into a caramelized, tender, and sweet side that pairs wonderfully with any Easter main. The secret lies in the slow roasting, which allows the natural sugars to emerge, complemented by a touch of honey. For an extra flair, a pinch of cinnamon or thyme can elevate this dish to new heights.

  • Carrots – Tri-colored Hand Carved – 5 Lb – item #20462
  • Honey – Mitica Orange Blossom – 7oz Jar – item #93506
  • Butter – Plugra Unsalted – 1 Lb – item #93005
  • Parsley- Micro – 6zo Pack – item #02937

Desserts

Carrot Cake

Carrot Cake, a timeless Easter classic, is a moist and flavorful dessert that’s hard to resist. Loaded with grated carrots, spices, and nuts, and topped with a creamy cheese frosting, it’s the perfect end to your Easter meal. For an added touch, decorate with edible flowers or Easter-themed cake toppers for a festive look.

  • Carrots – Shredded – 5 Lb Bag – item #20469
  • Cinnamon – Ground -1 Lb Tub – item #97025
  • Nutmeg – Ground 1 Lb Tub – item #97068
  • Ginger – Ground 12oz Jar – item #97053
  • All Spice – Ground 16oz Jar – item #97002
  • Cloves – Ground 16oz Jar – item #97027

Lemon Tart

The Lemon Tart is a celebration of spring’s citrusy delights. With a buttery, crisp tart shell filled with a tangy lemon custard, it’s a refreshing and elegant dessert. The key to a great lemon tart is the balance between sweet and tart, and a perfectly baked crust (or a delicious, ready-made option). Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and some fresh berries or edible flowers for an extra pop of color.

  • Lemon Zest – Ravifruit – 1.12Lb Tub – item #95877
  • Lemon Juice – Natalie’s – 6/32oz Cs – item #99201
  • Tart Shell – 3.25″ Sweet, Straight – 72 Ct – item #90292
  • Edible Flower – Pansies Mix 50 Ct Pack – item #40032

Drinks

Spring Punch

A fruity and refreshing blend of juices, soda, and a splash of something sparkling. Garnish with fresh berries and mint for a festive touch. For an adult version, a splash of your favorite spirit can add an extra kick.

  • Pineapple Orange Juice – 6/16oz Case – item #02718
  • Ginger Beer – Fever Tree – 6/4/6.8 Case – item #99772
  • Fruit Puree – Pomegranate – 30oz Jar – item #95842
  • Strawberries – Topped & Halved – 4 Lb Cs – item #17103
  • Flowers – *Basil Blossoms – 50 Ct Pack – item #02736

Mint Lemonade

Freshly squeezed lemonade infused with mint. It’s cool, refreshing, and the mint adds a fresh spring twist. Serve it over ice and garnish with mint leaves and lemon slices for a drink that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Here is another opportunity to add a little something extra to make this an adult beverage.

  • Puree – Meyer Lemon – 30oz – 95831
  • Mint Leaves – Hydro-grown (OH) – 1oz – 19137
  • Sugar – Monin Pure Cane Syrup – 750ml – 99439
  • Sparkling Water – Mountain Valley – 12/1 LTR – 18095

Each dish on this menu is thoughtfully chosen to celebrate the flavors of spring and the joyous spirit of Easter. Whether it’s the classic comfort of scalloped potatoes or the refreshing zing of mint lemonade, these dishes are sure to delight and impress at any Easter gathering!

Some featured items may not be available in all regions. Please contact your customer advocate for substitutions or new menu ideas.

Item of the Day: Jalapeno Jack Cheese from Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese

By | Cheese, Chef's Feed, Dairy, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Jalapeno Jack Cheese from Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese

Origin: Kenny’s (Austin, Kentucky)


Product Details: This monterey jack is speckled with medium-spiced red and green jalapeno peppers, giving just enough spice to the creamy original.


Producer Bio: Kenny’s Farmhouse cheeses are made by hand from raw cows milk – using purebred cows raised with no artificial hormones in Austin, Kentucky.

Item 91898 – 5 lb. block

Item of the Day: Noble Goat Feta Cheese from Noble Springs Dairy

By | Cheese, Chef's Feed, Dairy, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Noble Goat Feta Cheese from Noble Springs Dairy

Noble Springs Feta is our version of the traditional Greek cheese. Our feta is aged in a brine before being packaged. It has a tangy and salty flavor and is a firm cheese that is great for crumbling. Our Feta is great in a Greek salad with fresh tomatoes, olives and onions, it can be used in a quiche or is a great salty complement to sweet watermelon salad.


From their website: “At Noble Springs Dairy we produce a variety of all natural farmstead goat cheeses. We also bottle and sell Grade A Fluid Goat Milk. Our goats are allowed to browse on our rolling pastures at their leisure. Our cheeses have a distinctive flavor that is due to the forage based diet and special care our animals receive. Here at Noble Springs Dairy, Dustin and Justyne have over 40 combined years of experience in providing exceptional care to dairy goats.” “Quality milk comes from healthy, happy animals. Our high quality milk is the most important ingredient in our cheese making process. All of our products are created at our farm, in our creamery, by us and from only the milk our goats produce. We gently pasteurize our milk in a small vat pasteurizer, this allows us to pasteurize our milk at145 degrees. Our milk is never mechanically homogenized.”

Item 91390 – 2 lb. pack

Item of the Day: Sequatchie Coppinger Cheese

By | Cheese, Chef's Feed, Dairy, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Sequatchie Coppinger Cheese

A Southern take on the classic French Morbier, Coppinger is a semi-soft washed rind cheese with a striking layer of decorative vegetable ash in its center. The velvety elastic paste is savory with notes of fresh grass and smoked meats, making it ideal for the cheese plate or melted into any dish.


Pairs nicely with fruity lighter bodied reds such as Beaujolais Nouveau, malty ales and stouts, pickled vegetables, and charcuterie. Try it melted on a burger or as the ultimate grilled cheese. 

Item 91166 – 3.5 lb. wheel

Item of the Day: Buttermilk Cheddar from Sweetwater Valley Farm

By | Cheese, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Buttermilk Cheddar from Sweetwater Valley Farm

Origin: Sweetwater Valley Farm (Philadelphia, Tennessee)


This buttermilk cheddar has the tangy snap of  buttermilk in a pleasantly smooth cheese.
Sweetwater Valley Farm, located in Tennessee’s dairy-rich Sweetwater Valley, offers a variety of award-winning high-quality cheddar cheeses made from their own cows.


Learn more here.

Item 91214 – 5 lb. block

Item of the Day: Cumberland Cheese from Sequatchie Cove Creamery

By | Cheese, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Cumberland Cheese from Sequatchie Cove Creamery

Origin: Sequatchie (Sequatchie, TN)


Simple, rustic tomme, inspired by the French tomme de Savoie. Flavors are buttery and earthy with a tangy grassy note, and hints of macadamia nut.


Located in Sequatchie, Tennessee, Sequatchie Cove Farm is a diversified farm that makes award-winning cheeses in their creamery using raw cows milk.
Learn more here.

Item 91165 – 3 lb. wheel

Item of the Day: Buttermilk Cheddar from Sweetwater Valley Farm

By | Cheese, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Buttermilk Cheddar from Sweetwater Valley Farm

Origin: Sweetwater Valley Farm (Philadelphia, Tennessee)


This buttermilk cheddar has the tangy snap of  buttermilk in a pleasantly smooth cheese.
Sweetwater Valley Farm, located in Tennessee’s dairy-rich Sweetwater Valley, offers a variety of award-winning high-quality cheddar cheeses made from their own cows.


Learn more here.

Item 91214 – 5 lb. block

Item of the Day: Mont St. Francis from Capriole Goat Cheese

By | Cheese, Gourmet Cheese, Hors d'oeuvre, Item of the Day, Products, Salads, Southern Foods, What Chefs Want

Mont St. Francis from Capriole Goat Cheese

Mont St. Francis was named for a nearby Franciscan retreat and was first made in 1994 when there were few American washed-rind cheeses. Cheeses like the rustic, stinky Mont originated in monasteries across Europe and were traditionally washed in brine or beer. We finish ours in Monnik Beer Company’s His Dark Materials stout to enrich its funky, pungent flavor with a sweet, smoky finish. We’re “texture-proud” at Capriole, and the semi-firm, extra fine texture of this cheese is perfectly matched to its hearty flavor and beefy nose.
Learn more here

Item 91113 – 1 lb. wheel