If you’re Irish or Irish at heart you know what March 17th means: St. Paddy’s Day!
Aside from colourful, fun parades, leprechauns, clover leaves, and green anything, another fantastic way to celebrate this holiday is by eating Irish recipes!
We’ve gathered all our favourite recipes in a list down below.
But before we get into the recipes, let’s set the scene with some DIY Irish-themed table setting & décor tips to make your St. Paddy’s Day meal feel even more special.
DIY Irish-Themed Table Setting & Decor Tips
Want to elevate your St. Patrick’s Day celebration? A few small decor touches can turn an ordinary meal into a festive Irish gathering!
1. Go Green & Gold
- Use a green tablecloth or runner as the base of your setup.
- Add gold accents like cutlery, candle holders, or napkin rings for a luxurious Irish touch.
- Sprinkle some gold confetti or chocolate gold coins across the table for a fun look!
2. Shamrock Napkin Rings
- Cut shamrock shapes from green felt or paper and attach them to napkin rings.
- You can also tie green ribbon around napkins for a simple but elegant effect.
3. Rustic Irish-Inspired Centrepiece
- Place a wooden tray in the middle of the table.
- Add a small potted shamrock plant or a vase filled with fresh greenery like eucalyptus.
- Use candles in mason jars or mini lanterns for a cosy, rustic vibe.
4. Irish Symbols for a Fun Touch
- Scatter small leprechaun hats or Celtic knot coasters around the table.
- Write Irish blessings or fun St. Patrick’s Day trivia on small cards and place them at each setting.
Now that the atmosphere is set, let’s dive into the best Irish recipes for a St. Patrick’s Day feast!
Some of these recipes are traditionally Irish while the others are modern versions of the classic recipes. One thing’s for sure: each one of these Irish recipes is y-u-m-m-y.
1. Buttermilk Irish Soda Bread
There’s nothing we love more than a traditional Irish Soda Bread. This quick, no-yeast bread is a staple in Irish homes. It’s slightly tangy (thanks to buttermilk) and has a crispy crust with a soft inside.
Serve warm with butter or jam!
2. Authentic Irish Apple Cake
If you’re looking for a classic Irish dessert, Irish Apple Cake is a must-try! This sweet, spiced apple cake is a traditional tea-time treat in Ireland, often served with custard or whipped cream. With a tender crumb, juicy apples, and a hint of warming spices, it’s the perfect dessert for St. Patrick’s Day or any cosy occasion.
3. Colcannon
Colcannon is an Irish recipe that is super hearty and warming. Inside you’ll find mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, and (in this recipe) bacon!
4. Boxty
If you’ve never heard of Boxty before, it’s a kind of Irish potato pancake. There’s a mixture of both grated and mashed potatoes inside, and they’re really delicious.
5. Irish Stew
Everybody needs a good Irish stew recipe in their life, particularly when St. Patrick’s Day rolls around.
Reconnect with your roots, or simply have a day of pretending to be lucky and green with this hearty family dinner.
6. Dublin Lawyer
This is a super fancy, but incredible traditionally Irish way of preparing lobster. It’s not one for the kids, but if you want to treat yourself, then go for it!
7. Howth Head Seafood Chowder
The town of Howth is famous in Ireland for its seafood. This dish takes its inspiration from there. It’s a super creamy seafood chowder that you’re just going to love.
8. Beef And Guinness Pie
Another Guinness recipe for those that love it is this beef and Guinness pie. It makes for a perfect addition to your traditional St. Patrick’s Day celebration, or as a treat for any Irish buddies!
9. Donegal Oatcakes
With just five ingredients, these simple traditional Irish oatcakes are made to be enjoyed with some quality butter and a good jam. You won’t be able to stop at one!
10. Gur Cake
It might not sound like the most appetising thing in the world, but Gur Cake is actually super delicious, and a very traditional Irish recipe (known by many names). It uses lots of leftovers, meaning it’s perfect for avoiding waste!
How will you be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day?
Have your say!