WHEW! We’ve paraded through Mardi Gras and toasted to St. Paddy. Just as we recover from all that partying, Easter comes knocking. And you know what that means? Eggs. Lots and lots of eggs. (Should I call this one “Egg-stra with Ruthie”?)
But, before you waltz into the nearest big-box store and drop a small fortune on cartons of overpriced, overworked eggs, let’s talk strategy. Because if we’re gonna embrace egg season, we’ve got to do it smartly.
Oh, and as an aside, I am still experiencing sticker shock over the price of eggs. Is this getting better any time soon? Because these prices have been scrambling my budget for way too long. As we cling to hope for a dip in costs, here are a few ways to enjoy the Easter holiday without breaking the bank.
Shop Local, Save Big
Your new best friends will be your neighborhood farmers’ markets and local egg suppliers. Not only will you get eggs fresher than a spring breeze, but you’re also putting money back into your community instead of some faceless corporate henhouse. Check out Mcc Farms—they’ve got the good stuff, and you’ll taste the difference.
Brown, White, or Speckled—It’s All the Same on the Inside
I’m about to bust a myth: There’s no nutritional difference between brown eggs, white eggs or those gorgeously speckled ones from backyard hens. If you’re dyeing eggs for Easter, brown shells will give you a richer, moodier color palette, while white ones will give you that classic pastel pop. Choose what’s available and affordable. Try not to let the color mess with your wallet.
Buy in Bulk and Split with Friends
If you have an egg-heavy guest list for Easter brunch (or just a deep love for deviled eggs like I do), consider buying bulk from local suppliers. Call up your food-loving friends and split a case. You’ll save a few bucks and won’t be left wondering what to do with three dozen eggs post-Easter (ahem … frittatas, quiches and egg salad sandwiches for days).
Think Beyond the Carton
No eggs? No problem. Get creative with alternative Easter fun.
Plant-dyed fabric eggs: Wrap fabric around wooden or paper-mâché eggs and use natural plant dyes to create dreamy, one-of-a-kind patterns. Onion skins, turmeric, red cabbage, beets and coffee can create stunning hues.
Cookie decorating instead of egg-dyeing: Because cookies > eggs. Let’s be real.
Make the Most of Your Leftovers
If you do go egg-happy, don’t let the eggs go to waste! Use hard-boiled beauties in an herby potato salad (my daughter’s favorite), smash them into a bright spring tartine, or whip up some tangy pickled eggs to snack on all week.
And if all else fails? Well, there’s always chocolate.
