Coconut Nests Ready to Eat!

Easter is officially 3 days away and I’m still trying to put together a dinner menu that my whole family will enjoy. I’ve taken on the responsibility to entertain this year, so with that comes cooking all the meals and my favorite, dessert. I’m making it a point to make healthier meal options, so instead of using butter in my recipes, I’ll be using coconut oil. I personally love using coconut oil when cooking and baking because of the added health benefits you get from this versatile oil.

The medium chain triglycerides that are found in coconut oil are used in the body directly for energy, so after having a large meal, I found that I feel less “sluggish.” To use coconut oil in a recipe, you replace the butter or oil for coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio – it’s that simple. Here are a few of my top dinner ideas that I have in mind for my Easter menu and may even help you out, too!

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham – Ham has always been a tradition in my family, but this year I’m going to add a sweet twist. The brown sugar and coconut oil that are used in this recipe slightly caramelize, giving the ham just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. For another main course option, try this recipe for a Cuban Style turkey.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – Instead of making regular mashed potatoes, I’m going to whip up a cauliflower mash to cut back on carbohydrates. When I first made these, I couldn’t even tell the difference! The coconut oil and garlic in this dish make the cauliflower taste absolutely delicious. To make the mashed cauliflower a little creamier, add just a touch of half and half.

Crispy Green Beans – Green beans are a staple vegetable in any of my holiday dishes. Now instead of slathering on butter and salt, I’ll be doing a light drizzle of coconut oil on top. Lani’s tip for shocking the green beans in an ice cold bath really does the trick for an added crisp.

Orange Glazed Vegetables – I can’t get enough of vegetables and I absolutely love this dish because your guests can have this as a side instead of cauliflower mash. The sweet potatoes, carrots, and apricots go so well together and is perfect for someone who has a sweet tooth. To get even more creative and colorful, try adding dried cranberries to this dish.

Coconut Layer Cake – With dessert being my favorite part of the meal, I decided to create two options. When I first think of Easter, all things coconut come to mind. This coconut layer cake turns out so light and fluffy that I could easily devour 3 slices! This particular recipe has lower carbohydrates, so your guests won’t feel as guilty.

Chocolate Dipped Coconut Macaroons – Along with a cake, I wanted to make these coconut macaroons for those guests who like something bite size. These are also great for any children you’ll have at your Easter gathering. For another chocolate and coconut inspired recipe, check out my chocolate coconut nests.

Hopefully these recipes will give you a head start to planning a delicious Easter dinner! To keep your little ones entertained during the cooking festivities, try Lani’s DIY Easter Egg Dye.

-Kayla