Soft Spirituality

Ostara, the spring equinox, is a time of balance, renewal, and growth. As day and night find equal footing, we honor the turning of the Wheel of the Year by celebrating themes of fertility, abundance, and new beginnings. Food is a beautiful way to connect with these energies, incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients that reflect the vibrancy of spring. Whether you’re planning a full feast or just want to whip up something special, these recipes will bring the essence of Ostara to your table.

Looking for more information on Ostara? Check out these guides:

• Ostara Guide – Everything you need to know about celebrating Ostara from correspondences, rituals, altar ideas, history, and more.
• Ostara Overview – Free resource for getting started with your Ostara celebrations and rituals.
• All Ostara Resources

Breakfast: Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Bright and zesty, lemon poppy seed muffins are a perfect way to start an Ostara morning. Lemon symbolizes purification and new energy, while poppy seeds represent abundance.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Main Dish: Spring Vegetable Quiche

Eggs are a classic symbol of Ostara, representing fertility and potential. This quiche pairs them with spring vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyere, or your choice)
• 1 cup chopped asparagus
• 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the pie crust. Layer the asparagus, mushrooms, and green onions on top.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and slightly golden on top. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Springtime Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

This elegant stuffed pork tenderloin is filled with a vibrant mixture of spinach, leeks, and fresh herbs, reflecting the fresh bounty of the season.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 lb)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 leek (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
• 1/4 cup goat cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Kitchen twine (for tying)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the leek and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix in goat cheese and breadcrumbs (if using), then season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Slice the pork tenderloin lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open it up like a book.
5. Stuff the pork with the spinach mixture and tie it up with kitchen twine. Season the outside with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted baby carrots or a spring salad.

Side Dish: Honey Glazed Carrots

Carrots, with their bright orange hue, bring the energy of the sun to your Ostara table. This simple side dish is sweet, earthy, and delightful.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tbsp butter (or vegan butter)
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil the carrots until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the honey, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the carrots to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly. Serve warm.

Dessert: Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Lavender symbolizes calm and harmony, making these cookies a lovely treat to close your Ostara celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the flour, lavender, vanilla, and salt until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Drink: Spring Blossom Herbal Tea

Celebrate the blooming season with a soothing tea blend made from dried flowers and herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp dried chamomile
• 1 tsp dried hibiscus
• 1 tsp dried rose petals
• 1 tsp dried mint leaves
• Honey or sweetener to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the dried herbs and flowers in a teapot or tea infuser.
2. Pour boiling water over the blend and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain and sweeten to taste. Serve warm or over ice.

Ostara is a time to embrace the energy of renewal and the abundance of nature. By preparing these seasonal recipes, you’re not only nourishing yourself and your loved ones but also honoring the spirit of the season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, may your Ostara be filled with light, joy, and delicious food.

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