However you spend Easter Sunday, brunch is usually part of the program. Instead of filling up on empty calories that will make you feel sluggish and heavy, go the healthy route. Healthy doesn't mean you'll be missing out! These recipes taste decadent, but are made using nutritious ingredients and techniques.
Spring Veggie Frittata
A frittata is a great option for brunch because you can make the mixture ahead of time and just pop it in the oven before guests arrive. We also love the dish because you can throw just about anything into it; head to your nearest farmers market, grab what's in season, and run home to make our Spring veggie frittata [1] or lighten things up with an egg white version [2].
Pancakes
Brunch really isn't complete without a stack of pancakes on the table. Whether your guests follow a vegan, gluten-free, or Paleo diet, there's sure to be a recipe here [3] that you can feed to the crowd.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
If the last thing you want to do on Easter morning is cook, this overnight breakfast casserole [4] is for you. Made with eggs, bacon, and veggies, it’s low in carbs and grain-free, plus it can feed up to 10 guests. Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker before going to bed to have breakfast waiting for you the next morning!
Baked Doughnuts
What's not to love about doughnuts? These vegan chocolate doughnuts [5] are baked, which eliminates all the fat associated with traditional fried varieties.
Spicy Baked Eggs
Bring a little spice to the table with this recipe for baked eggs [6]. The beautiful presentation makes it a must for any Easter spread; it's just a bonus that this dish is high in protein and fiber.
Lightened-Up Bloody Mary
For friends who prefer a boozy brunch, make things fun by setting up a DIY [7] Bloody Mary bar. And when done right, a Bloody Mary [8] doesn't have to equal a glass full of empty calories. Instead of using conventional tomato juice, make your own or buy a low-sodium variety without added sugar. Pile on the veggies, too — green beans, asparagus, carrots, and radish all make great accoutrements. And to save even more calories, use low-cal shochu [9] or soju instead of vodka. Instant tomato salad in a cup!
Vegetarian Hash
Let's face it, given the amount of meat found in a standard hash, it's far from healthy. Lighten things up by making a vegetarian hash [10] instead. This recipe calls for leeks, potatoes, and kale. Basically, a flavor explosion in your mouth.
Gluten-Free French Toast
Your health-conscious friends are going to love you for this: french toast with ricotta cheese [11]. You better believe it tastes as good as it looks. The kicker? One serving contains 20 grams of protein and only 250 calories.
Ebelskivers
Danish ebelskivers [12] are a good option when you're tired of your classic American brunch dishes; the dish is also bound to impress guests. A cross between pancakes and popovers that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Keep in mind that you'll need a special pan [13] ($50) to make the dish.
Baked Eggs in Ham Cups
Serve these baked eggs cups [14] alongside a Spring salad and whole-grain toast for a complete meal that’s easy to throw together. The Paleo-friendly recipe takes all of 20 minutes to prepare, which leaves you more time to enjoy a mimosa.
Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Gluten-free and full of protein, this Mexican breakfast casserole [15] is another good recipe to make when time is an issue. Since this casserole can easily bake in your slow cooker overnight, you can avoid any prep work the next day. Cross your fingers that there are leftovers since this dish tastes even better the next day.
Vegan Scramble
No one will even miss the eggs in this tofu, sweet potato, and kale scramble [16]. Turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory, gives the dish its yellow hue, while tofu adds a powerful protein punch to start your day off in an energizing way.
Asparagus and Smoked Salmon Bundles
Incredibly simple to put together, these asparagus and smoked salmon bundles [17] defintiely add elegance to any brunch table.
Roasted Veggie and Egg
Our roasted veggie and egg recipe [18] is perfect for a crowd! Roast a huge batch of vegetables the night before, then cook up the eggs as guests arrive.
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
No one will ever know that these fluffy, delicious lemon blueberry protein muffins [19] are made without any dairy, and are also full of protein. They'll be too busy devouring them!
Tomato Frittata
An easy way to impress a crowd is to make each and every guest their own tomato frittata [20]. With only a few ingredients, this Paleo-friendly breakfast still delivers big flavors.