As the world celebrates Holy Week, many people around the globe are preparing to observe Good Friday, a day that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In many cultures, this somber occasion is marked by special meals and feasts that bring families together in remembrance and reverence. For those who follow traditional Christian practices, cooking up a storm on Good Friday can be a meaningful way to connect with loved ones and honor the day’s significance.
To help inspire your culinary creativity, we’ve gathered 19 mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for a Good Friday celebration. From hearty fish dishes to savory vegetable quiches, these classic recipes have been passed down through generations and are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re observing Lent or simply looking for a delicious meal to share with friends and loved ones, these traditional Good Friday recipes will satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.
Classic Hot Cross Buns
These sweet and spicy buns are a traditional Easter treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With their distinctive cross on top, they’re a beautiful addition to any holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine warm milk and yeast; let sit 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Beat in egg, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
8. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Fish Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful fish chowder that combines the richness of cream with the freshness of seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fish and clam juice; bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using potatoes, add them to the pot and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This quick and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop al dente linguine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs
This recipe showcases the simplicity of baking cod to perfection, with a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon and freshness from herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle parsley and dill evenly.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the richness of tuna with the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of albacore tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Vegetarian Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious lentil soup, packed with fiber-rich lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Herb-Crusted Salmon
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with a savory blend of herbs, creating a delicious and easy-to-prepare dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a gourmet-inspired meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Seafood Gumbo
A hearty and flavorful gumbo that combines the richness of seafood with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb crawfish tails
– 1/2 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups fish stock
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add fish stock, whisking constantly; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add shrimp, crawfish, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until seafood is pink and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and filé powder (if using); garnish with scallions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of grilled tilapia with the sweetness of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Stir in olive oil and season to taste.
6. Serve grilled tilapia with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clam Linguine in White Wine Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the brininess of clams with the richness of white wine and garlic, served over a bed of linguine pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clams, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add clams, white wine, butter, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
6. Add reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet if sauce becomes too thick.
7. Combine cooked linguine pasta with clam mixture. Toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Quiche
Roasted Vegetable Quiche: A delicious and savory brunch option that showcases the flavors of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large bowl, toss together olive oil, onion, garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, and eggplant until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the roasted vegetable mixture into the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the vegetables.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the cream mixture over the vegetables.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the scallops in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip the floured scallops in the beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as pasta, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple and delicious Cajun Shrimp and Rice recipe. This classic dish is a staple of Creole cuisine, combining succulent shrimp with spicy seasonings, savory rice, and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked shrimp to the rice mixture; stir in the butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the shells are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Satisfy your seafood cravings with this flavorful recipe that combines crispy fish, tangy slaw, and a dollop of creamy lime sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (see below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and shredded cabbage (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge fish pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook fish for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked fish, slaw (if using), and a dollop of Lime Crema.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Brighten up your pasta dish with the vibrant flavors of pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the pesto in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the cherry tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper until they release their juices and start to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Stir in the warmed pesto, followed by the Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Zucchini Fritters
Transform zucchinis into crispy, flavorful fritters with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these baked treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini, flour, baking powder, salt, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Add olive oil, egg, and mix until a batter forms.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Paella
This vibrant and flavorful Vegetable Paella recipe is a twist on the classic Spanish dish, packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and zucchini; cook until tender, 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add 2 cups water to the skillet; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Succulent lobster tails smothered in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce – a perfect appetizer or main course for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster tails, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides of the lobster with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is cooked through, flaky, and tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some delicious recipes perfect for Good Friday! This collection features 19 traditional dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From sweet and savory breads like classic hot cross buns to seafood delights such as creamy fish chowder, garlic butter shrimp pasta, and baked cod with lemon and herbs, there’s something for everyone. Vegetarian options include vegetarian lentil soup, herb-crusted salmon, and roasted vegetable quiche. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has got you covered with a variety of mouthwatering recipes to try.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
