Eating green—would you, could you...?
These naturally green dishes-from green eggs to green ice cream cupcakes-are perfect picks for a St. Patrick's Day celebration.
BREAKFAST: Green Eggs and Ham
No food coloring required! Fresh basil gives the eggs a fun green hue while adding a hefty dose of flavor to this open-faced breakfast sandwich.
See Recipe: Green Eggs and Ham
APPETIZER: Grape Leaves Stuffed with Rice, Currants, and Herbs
This Turkish dish may not hail from Ireland, but the festive green grape leaf wrap is an eye-catching start to any St. Patrick's Day meal. Because you make it the night before and serve at room temperature, it will save you time and oven space during your gathering.
See Recipe: Grape Leaves Stuffed with Rice, Currants, and Herbs
BEVERAGE: Iced Mint Tea
Pack a double-dose of the green hue into a refreshing glass of ice tea-this recipe calls for green tea and fresh mint sprigs.
DIP: Tomatillo Salsa
The tomatillo, also known as the Mexican green tomato, have a papery outer husk and a firm texture. Make an easy salsa perfect for chips or as a light dressing for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
SOUP: Zucchini-Buttermilk Soup with Watercress Pesto
Serve this creamy, veggie-packed soup chilled or warm with a light drizzle of watercress pesto. If you're short on time, take one of our online reviewer's advice and top with a sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or tarragon.
See Recipe: Zucchini-Buttermilk Soup with Watercress Pesto
SALAD: Bok Choy Salad
Add bite to a simple salad by crumbling uncooked ramen noodles over bok choy, a Chinese white cabbage. A cider vinegar and soy sauce drizzle make the salad a unique and flavorful alternative to the traditional starter salad.
SIDE DISH: Spinach Risotto with Roquefort
This creamy side dish gets its color from hot spinach broth and its texture from rich Roquefort cheese. If you can't find Roquefort, just use whatever blue cheese you have on hand. Top with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright finish.
See Recipe: Spinach Risotto with Roquefort
Related: 5 Irresistible Healthy Quick Breads
MAIN DISH: Halibut Baked in Fresh Green Salsa
Pour the bright tomatillo pan sauce over fillets and bake to add rich flavor to any mild fish. Sprinkle with whole cilantro leaves, reminiscent of four-leaf clovers.
See Recipe: Halibut Baked in Fresh Green Salsa
DESSERT: Mint-Chocolate Chip Ice-cream Cupcakes
Round out any packed St. Patty's Day event with a cool make-ahead treat. Prepare and bake the fudgy base, then top with ice cream and freeze for eight hours before serving to guests.
See Recipe: Mint-Chocolate Chip Ice-cream Cupcakes
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