What more joyous way to celebrate Easter, a wonderful festival of hope and renewal, than to share a delicious meal with family and friends? Showcase the seasonal bounty of spring with a delicious but simple menu you can enjoy preparing and eating and still have enough energy left over to hunt for eggs.

Brunch, lunch or dinner? Decide when you want to share your holiday meal and plan accordingly. No children in the family? Sleep in and plan your celebration for evening with an elegant Easter dinner. Feeding a large brood? Try a hearty brunch buffet with choices to satisfy every craving. If you are sure of balmy weather, plan an extravagant outdoor Easter egg hunt and prepare a casual but fun Easter luncheon.

Start with an easy menu. Remember, you want to celebrate too. Plan your menu around a spectacular but easy-to-cook ham slathered with a delicious glaze. Try roasting a traditional leg of lamb studded with garlic, and surround it with whole baby red potatoes that cook with the roast. For a faster but equally delicious choice, have your butcher butterfly a leg of lamb for marinating and grilling. If your oven is occupied with the Easter roast, plan your menu with side dishes, salads and desserts that require little time in the oven or can be completely or partially prepared ahead of time. Traditional, seasonal breads such as hot cross buns can be included in your meal as well; bake them ahead of time and freeze until needed, or buy them from one of your favorite bakeries.