I’m excited to share a very special collection of Mother’s Day lunch ideas. These recipes are meant to make Mum feel cherished and pampered on her special day. These dishes are perfect for the partner or the kids (or friends) to spoil any mom with, and they’re perfect for creating a memorable and relaxing weekend together.
This roundup of Mother’s Day recipes covers a variety of categories to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. From comforting and delicious dishes to those with a healthy twist, including options for keto, Whole30, paleo, and low-carb diets, there’s something here for everyone.
Plus, I’ve included recipes that are super easy to make, ensuring stress-free preparation for all skill levels (including little ones). For moms who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, I have a selection of flavourful and satisfying recipes that will delight their taste buds. And if you’re watching your budget, don’t worry—I’ve included plenty of wallet-friendly options that don’t skimp on taste.
Mother’s Day Lunch Ideas (Including Brunch)
Whether you’re serving up indulgent breakfasts in bed or planning a picturesque picnic lunch spread, these recipes are sure to make mom feel extra special. Let me know in the comments which of these tickles your fancy!
Mother’s Day is the ultimate brunch opportunity which lets mum sleep in and gives you time to work your magic in the kitchen. You can’t go wrong with a classic eggs benny featuring homemade hollandaise. Recipe from Damn Delicious.Calories (per serving): 591Protein: 30 gramsCarbs: 30 gramsFat: 39 grams
One of my favourite cafe-style breakfast dishes to make at home. These fritters (or patties if you will) are vegetarian-friendly, high in protein, fibre and can be made gluten-free and grain-free with simple swaps.Calories (per serving): 143Protein: 6 gramsCarbs: 9 gramsFat: 9 grams
This is the ultimate breakfast burger stacked with grilled sausage, gooey egg, tasty cheese, spinach and my special burger sauce. It’s a fantastic combo of flavours and textures nestled in a bun.Calories (per serving): 626Protein: 26 gramsCarbs: 27 gramsFat: 46 grams
This decadent, cream cheese-stuffed French toast is a treat suitable for the most special person in your life. The prep is even easier in casserole form. Recipe from Certified Pastry Aficiando.Calories (per serving): 437Protein: 47 gramsCarbs: 30 gramsFat: 21 grams
You could pop into mum’s favourite bagel shop for some lox, or you could make the most of little hands and have the kids help you craft this impressive brunch board featuring hot and cold smoked salmon plus all the fixings. Recipe from Valerie’s Kitchen.Calories (per serving): 437Protein: 47 gramsCarbs: 30 gramsFat: 21 grams
Quiche is the quintessential brunch, but forgoing crust with this Spanakopita-inspired frittata recipe makes things a little easier. Have the kids help whisk eggs while you prep the rest, and enjoy your egg slices with toast or roasted potatoes.Calories (per serving): 258Protein: 15 gramsCarbs: 5 gramsFat: 20 grams
Each bite is full of sweet, lemony blueberries and is truly SO delicious! Enjoy this treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a mid-afternoon treat. Recipe from Half Baked Harvest.Calories (per serving): 204
An easy pasta is the perfect way to end a day full of activities and celebration because it’s on the table quick. I love this option for a comforting, creamy classic.Calories (per serving): 758Protein: 35 gramsCarbs: 74 gramsFat: 36 grams
Burrata lends any dish elegance and unbeatable flavour. This creamy gnocchi dish is a nice alternative to pasta, and it’s just as simple to make with just seven ingredients! Recipe from Dishing out Health.Calories (per serving): 493Protein: 12 gramsCarbs: 64 gramsFat: 21 grams
With Hungarian traditions running deep in our family, I cook paprika chicken A LOT. I’ve adapted the traditional recipe to be more accessible, friendly, and straightforward, something that can be done in under an hour so you can enjoy the warmth and richness of this dish any night of the week! Calories (per serving): 465Protein: 28 gramsCarbs: 11 gramsFat: 35 grams
This classic layered pasta dish always hits the spot. Even though it’s rather easy to make, there is something about lasagna that makes it great for special occasions. Treat mum to a slice, made with love. Recipe from Gimme Some Oven.Calories (per serving): 598Protein: 32 gramsCarbs: 41 gramsFat: 34 grams
A scrumptious stack of pancakes is an excellent way to tell someone you love them. Cottage cheese adds plenty of protein and gives these flapjacks a distinctly fluffy finish.Calories (per pancake): 98Protein: 7 gramsCarbs: 4 gramsFat: 6 grams
Middle Eastern inspired chicken and quinoa salad with fresh herbs, red peppers and pistachios. Finished with honey harissa and tahini yoghurt sauce. Gluten-free, healthy and delicious.Calories (per pancake): 519Protein: 42 gramsCarbs: 42 gramsFat: 21 grams
This delicious and healthy meal of roasted, jammy sweet potatoes with salty grilled chorizo and tangy chimichurri is a real flavour explosion. Inspired by choripan, it’s nutritious, balanced, satiating and suitable for paleo, gluten-free and Whole30 diets. Calories (per pancake): 582Protein: 16 gramsCarbs: 47 gramsFat: 37 grams
The best crunchy rainbow salad with all the flavors, colors, and textures of summer. All tossed with a punchy lemon vinaigrette. Recipe from Pinch of Yum.Calories (per pancake): 688Protein: 38 gramsCarbs: 34.4 gramsFat: 46.9 grams
Healthy but make it a little fancy. This cafe-style salad is perfect for a summary lunch paired with a glass of bubbles.Calories (per pancake): 593Protein: 23 gramsCarbs: 33 gramsFat: 44 grams
Teriyaki salmon fillet is cooked in the air fryer (or grill/oven), set on top of a bed of rice, and topped with avocado, cucumber, mango, edamame, green onions, and cilantro creating the best salmon bowl. Recipe from Tastes Better From Scratch.Calories (per serving): 758Protein: 46 gramsCarbs: 88 gramsFat: 25 grams
This creamy chicken salad is a great choice for packing a picnic or a light lunch served on sandwiches, with crackers or croissants, or atop a bed of greens. Recipe from Downshiftology.Calories (per serving): 524Protein: 36 gramsCarbs: 10 gramsFat: 38 grams
Filled with grilled vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and feta, this Mediterranean quinoa salad with lemon basil dressing is flavourful, vegetarian and gluten-free. This is a great quinoa meal prep recipe that can be made ahead of time. Vegan-friendly and low-carb with a slight modificationCalories (per serving): 494Protein: 13 gramsCarbs: 49 gramsFat: 29 grams
You can use rotisserie chicken, a few freezer staples, a cup or two of orzo pasta (aka risoni), plus a touch of cream and umami-boosting Parmesan, to create the most comforting yet nutritious meal in 30 minutes.Calories (per serving): 594Protein: 34 gramsCarbs: 60 gramsFat: 24 grams
Shrimp are pan-fried in the aromatic lemon and garlic olive oil, then tossed through raw zucchini noodles with a generous topping of Parmesan cheese for extra flavour. This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb and keto-friendly and can be made without cheese for Paleo and Whole30 versions. Calories (per serving): 649Protein: 31 gramsCarbs: 18 gramsFat: 53 grams
With a name like that, you know this recipe has got to be good. Make mum swoon with this winner of a chicken dinner. Recipe from 40 Aprons.Calories (per serving): 418Protein: 53 gramsCarbs: 6 gramsFat: 19 grams
Chinese takeout is a great way to relax because it means you don’t have to cook. This recipe is nearly as sweet a deal – just set it and forget it for a delicious Mother’s Day dinner. Recipe from The Recipe Critic.Calories (per serving): 312Protein: 21 gramsCarbs: 41 gramsFat: 7 grams
When it comes to recipes that are easy to make, you can’t beat pulled pork. It’s inexpensive, hands-off, and finger-licking good. Enjoy with buns and a simple salad or store bought sides. Recipe from The Food Charlatan.Calories (per serving): 664Protein: 72 gramsCarbs: 15 gramsFat: 34 grams
Last on my list of contenders for slow-cooked roasts is a lamb shoulder. You’ll get flavour-packed, tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with this festive recipe. It’s a go-to for any celebration.Calories (per serving): 335Protein: 31 gramsCarbs: 16 gramsFat: 14 grams
High-protein, vegan, and hearty? These breakfast sandwiches hit check all the boxes with easy prep and deli-style quality. Recipe from Plant Based RD.Calories (per serving): 372Protein: 18 gramsCarbs: 37 gramsFat: 18 grams
This dish is filled with hearty veggies, delicious sauce, pasta and melted cheese. It’s great for a satisfying family lunch.Calories (per serving): 596Protein: 24 gramsCarbs: 70 gramsFat: 27 grams
This bright, herby, and colourful salad is healthy and packed with veggies. It’s an excellent side dish or a light lunch – you can even add some roasted chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.Calories (per serving): 382Protein: 10 gramsCarbs: 53 gramsFat: 15 grams
These low-carb, vegetarian-friendly paneer fritters with cucumber and mint raita are super tasty and a great source of protein, fibre, and nutrients.Calories (per serving): 113Protein: 6 gramsCarbs: 4 gramsFat: 8 grams
Packed with wholesome ingredients, my Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff recipe is this vegetarian and gluten-free version of the classic Stroganoff. Creamy and savoury, this vegetarian stroganoff is sure to satisfy your taste buds while providing a boost of plant-based protein and essential nutrients.Calories (per serving): 619Protein: 34 gramsCarbs: 80 gramsFat: 19 grams
Hearty, comforting and budget-friendly, country skillet potatoes with red peppers and a few fried eggs on top are perfect for brunch or lunch. Serve with a little fruit salad on the side.Calories (per serving): 251Protein: 4 gramsCarbs: 36 gramsFat: 11 grams
Tuna sandwiches have long been a budget-friendly go-to. Make it special with my favourite recipe for tuna melt with sourdough, gooey cheese, and a few other key ingredients. I may be biased, but I do think it’s the best!Calories (per serving): 391Protein: 22 gramsCarbs: 34 gramsFat: 18 grams
If you’re looking for a meal bursting with flavour, try these honey lemon garlic pepper chicken thighs. Pan-fried for golden skin, then baked and finished with a mouthwateringly sweet, tangy and citrusy sauce. Calories (per serving): 503Protein: 31 gramsCarbs: 36 gramsFat: 14 grams
This one-pan dinner is a great way to feed the family on a budget. Use the veggies you prefer — or whatever veg the kids won’t be too picky about — and make this dish your own. Recipe from Budget Bytes.Calories (per serving): 781Protein: 41 gramsCarbs: 38 gramsFat: 52 grams
Skip the delivery fees and make the ultimate family-friendly dish at home. If you’re new to making dough, this beginner-friendly recipe is a great place to start. The best part is everyone can have their favourite toppings — no compromises necessary between mum and the littles. Recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction.Calories (per slice with cheese): 280Protein: 14 gramsCarbs: 34 gramsFat: 11 grams
Healthy and packed with colorful veggies, these tasty vegetarian enchiladas are a big ol’ pan of cheesy delight. Recipe from Well Plated.Calories (per serving): 230Protein: 11 gramsCarbs: 31 gramsFat: 6 grams
About the author: Hi, I’m Irena Macri. I share delicious recipes that I have cooked and loved. I am a published cookbook author, have been food blogging for over 10 years and have a Diploma in Nutrition. You will find many healthy recipes as well as my favourite comfort food. More about me here | Subscribe to my newsletter and freebies
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These all look amazing! I can’t wait to make these for my Mom on Mother’s Day! Thank you for the ideas!
The gnocchi with burrata looks amazing! We always go out for mothers day, but working from home, these are some great ideas I can make any day!
So many wonderful I deas, I don’t know which one to choose!
What a fabulous list of brunch ideas. Every Mother would be happy with any of these delicious recipes.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful ideas.
Such a great collection of easy recipes to make for Mother’s Day! A one-stop shop for creating the perfect menu, thank you so much!
These all look so good. The berries and cream french toast is one we will make for Mother’s Day!
SO many great ideas here! My mum is getting the all day breakfast!
I really love this list! Lots of amazing options! Thank you so much!