10 Good Friday Meal Ideas To Make Your Celebration Complete

Good Friday is one of the most significant days in a Christian's religious calendar. It is a time of reflection and prayer, where people contemplate the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for humanity. Of course, it is also a day where we fast and abstain from meat, which means that meal planning becomes a bit of a challenge. But with a bit of creativity, it is possible to prepare delicious and meaningful Good Friday meals. Here are 10 meal ideas that you can try out this Good Friday.

Read More: The Spiritual And Cultural Reasons Behind Eating Fish On Good Friday

Why is Good Friday significant?

Before we dive into the meal ideas, let us first understand why Good Friday is so significant. Good Friday is the day when Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a time of mourning and penance, where we reflect on the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus endured for our sins. As such, it is a solemn day where we fast and abstain from meat as a sign of our devotion and gratitude. 

Traditional Good Friday meal ideas

In many cultures, there are traditional Good Friday meals that have been passed down from generation to generation. These meals are often simple and meatless, yet full of flavor and symbolism. One example is hot cross buns, which are sweet bread rolls with a cross on top. The cross represents the crucifixion of Jesus, while the bread represents his body. Another traditional meal is fish and chips, which is a popular dish in the UK and other countries. The fish represents the abundance of the sea, while the chips represent the poverty of the people. 

Here are 10 Good Friday meal ideas for you to make and savor on this special occasion: 

No-meat recipes

If you are looking for meatless meal ideas for Good Friday, there are plenty of options to choose from. One simple yet delicious option is grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare and perfect for a light meal. 

Another idea is vegetable stir-fry with rice, which is a healthy and filling meal that can be customized to your liking. You can use any combination of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and add your favorite sauces and spices. 

Hot Cross Buns

No meal is complete without a delicious dessert, and Good Friday is no exception. One classic Good Friday dessert is hot cross buns, which are sweet bread rolls with a cross on top. Another option is fruit salad with whipped cream, which is a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for springtime. You can also make a simple apple pie or peach cobbler, which are classic comfort foods that are perfect for any occasion.  

3. Stuffed Tomatoes

Even though Good Friday is traditionally a day for fish, stuffed tomatoes can be a great vegetarian option for those who prefer to avoid meat. This dish can be served with rice for a satisfying dinner. The dish consists of tomatoes that are filled with a mixture of rice, chickpeas, and mint. The stuffed tomatoes are then covered in a batter made of yogurt and eggs and grilled in a tandoor. The dish is served with sesame-besan masala.  

4. Seafood dishes

Seafood is a popular choice for Good Friday meals, as it is a symbol of abundance and generosity. One classic seafood dish is shrimp scampi, which is a flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that is easy to prepare. Another option is grilled salmon with roasted vegetables, which is a healthy and satisfying meal that is perfect for springtime. You can also try your hand at making sushi rolls, which are a fun and creative way to enjoy seafood. 

5. Vegan options 

If you are a vegan, there are plenty of options for Good Friday meals that are both delicious and satisfying. One idea is lentil soup, which is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold day. Another option is black bean enchiladas, which are a flavorful and filling meal that is easy to prepare. You can also make a vegan shepherd's pie, which is a classic comfort food that is perfect for any occasion. 

6. Salads and sandwiches

If you are short on time, there are plenty of quick and easy meal ideas that you can whip up in no time. One idea is tuna salad sandwiches, which are a classic and simple meal that is perfect for lunch. Another option is a vegetable frittata, which is a healthy and flavorful dish that can be customized to your liking. You can also make a simple caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, which is a light and refreshing meal that is perfect for springtime. 

7. Grilled Fish Fillets 

In a small bowl, mix together oil, lime juice, garlic cloves, chili powder, cumin powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add some fish fillets to the mixture, marinate them for a while, and then grill them well. In some tortilla shells lined with cabbage leaves and veggies like tomatoes and capsicum, add the fish fillets and grill them for a few seconds. Enjoy them with your preferred sauces.  

8. Pasta

This recipe for homemade pink sauce pasta adds an Italian flair to your Good Friday dinner. It features a blend of creamy cheese and tangy tomato sauce and can be prepared in just half an hour. It is a delicious and quick meal option for this occasion. 

9. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Melt some butter in a pan and add 1 tablespoon of flour. Keep stirring so the flour doesn't stick together.Next, add a few cups of milk, and whisk the mixture till smooth. Add a cup of cheddar cheese until melted, 1 cup of blanched cauliflower florets, salt, pepper, and chili flakes, and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 10–12 minutes. Your delicious cheesy dish is now ready to be served. 

Grilled Surmai

For a healthy meal on Good Friday, consider making Grilled Surmai Steak. This dish is high in protein, delicious, and simple to prepare. The recipe involves grilling fish kebabs with seasoned potatoes, making it a perfect option for a Sunday brunch gathering with loved ones.