Pesach is the holiday of freedom, but let’s be honest—it’s also the holiday of food. With no chametz in sight, Jewish kitchens worldwide get very creative this time of year. Every community brings something unique, and delicious to the table. And if you’re looking to break out of the matzah-and-eggs routine (no offense, matzah brei), this is your sign to explore.
Here’s your ultimate Pesach recipe roundup. Get inspired with these delicious traditional dishes from around the Jewish world, a few clever upgrades, and vegan options that don’t taste like cardboard. Let’s dig in.
Classic Dishes From Around the Jewish World
1. Moroccan Lamb with Dried Fruit
A festive and deeply flavorful dish often served at Moroccan Seders. Tender lamb is slow-cooked with dried apricots, prunes, cinnamon, and a touch of honey for that signature sweet-savory flavor. Serve it over mashed potatoes or a veggie base for a rich and satisfying Yom Tov main.
2. Persian Herb Frittata (Kuku Sabzi)
Packed with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill, kuku sabzi is a vibrant, savory dish perfect for spring. Traditionally eaten during Nowruz and embraced by many Persian Jewish families during Pesach, it’s baked with eggs and spices and can be served hot or cold. Just skip the baking powder and flour to keep it kosher for Passover.
3. Romanian Eggplant Salad (Salata de Vinete)
A smoky, garlicky eggplant dip traditionally eaten as a spread. Serve it with matzah or on cucumber slices for a crunchy contrast. It’s simple, satisfying, and honestly, underrated.
4. Ashkenazi Apple-Walnut Charoset
The Seder MVP. Tart apples, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and sweet red wine make this a staple on the table. Some families get fancy and add dates or raisins—go wild.
5. Persian Gondi
These chickpea flour dumplings, usually served in chicken soup, are soft, spiced, and deeply comforting. Traditionally eaten on Shabbat and holidays, they fit right into a Pesach menu (especially if your community allows kitniyot).
A Twists on the Classic Pesach Recipe
1. Zucchini Kugel Muffins
Think Kugel, but make it portable. Shred zucchini, mix it with egg, onion, and a bit of potato starch, and bake it in muffin tins. You get crispy edges, individual portions, and zero leftovers.
2. Mediterranean Matzah Lasagna
Swap the noodles for soaked matzah and layer with tomato sauce, roasted veggies, and melty cheese. It’s comforting, colorful, and surprisingly filling.
3. Everything Bagel Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are already a go-to for Pesach snacks, but topping them with everything bagel seasoning? Genius. Creamy, crunchy, and wildly addictive.
4. Passover Falafel Balls
Use mashed potatoes or matzah meal instead of flour to bind your falafel mix. Bake or fry and serve with tahini and Israeli salad. A fun, festive way to snack through the week.
5. Chocolate-Covered Matzah Bark
You probably already make this, but have you tried adding crushed pistachios, sea salt, or freeze-dried raspberries? This upgrade turns a basic treat into something you’d proudly gift (or eat entirely yourself).
Vegan Options That Taste Amazing
1. Vegan Matzo Ball Soup
Use olive oil and aquafaba (chickpea water) to replace the eggs, and make matzo balls with matzah meal, baking powder, and a little magic. Flavorful veggie broth brings it all together. It’s cozy, satisfying, and totally legit.
2. Spiced Quinoa Pilaf
If you eat it, quinoa is a Pesach game-changer. Sauté it with onions, garlic, cumin, and colorful veggies for a one-pot wonder that works for lunch or dinner.
3. Sweet Potato “Latkes”
Grate sweet potatoes and bind them with potato starch and a flax egg. Pan-fry until crispy. Serve with applesauce or guac. (Yes, guac. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.)
4. Coconut Macaroons (No Egg Whites Needed)
Mix shredded coconut, maple syrup, and almond flour. Bake until golden and snackable. Dip in chocolate if you’re fancy.
5. Beet & Citrus Salad
Not every dish has to be heavy. Roasted beets, orange slices, mint, and a lemon-olive oil dressing? Fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly addictive.
The classic Pesach recipe doesn’t have to feel limiting. In fact, it’s a great excuse to experiment, try new things, and reconnect with recipes from around the Jewish world. Mix tradition with creativity, and you might just find your new favorite dish.
Chag sameach and happy cooking!
Photo credit: Canva
