15 Mother’s Day Dinner Ideas

Treat Mom to a home-cooked meal she’ll never forget this Mother’s Day! In this guide, we’ve gathered incredible dinner ideas that are both impressive and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find delectable recipes to create a perfect Mother’s Day feast.

We offer a variety of options to suit Mom’s tastes, from light and refreshing dishes to hearty and comforting meals. Find inspiration for all courses, including appetizers, main entrées, and decadent desserts.

Let’s make this Mother’s Day unforgettable with a delicious homemade dinner prepared with love!

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon

This dish is light, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. The citrusy tang of lemon combined with the aromatic herbs enhances the natural taste of the salmon, giving you a meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 lemons (one for zest and juice, one for slices)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture generously over the salmon fillets.
4. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with lemon slices before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this delicious salmon with a side of roasted vegetables or a light garden salad. A serving of quinoa or wild rice also pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Drink Pairing

A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing lemonade would complement the flavors of the lemon herb salmon beautifully.

2. Creamy Mushroom Risotto

This creamy mushroom risotto is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich and creamy texture and earthy mushroom flavor. It’s a dish that requires a bit of patience, but the result is absolutely worth it. Each bite is a creamy, savory delight that will make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Italian bistro.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until soft.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice, cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to toast.
5. Pour in the white wine, stirring continuously until it’s absorbed.
6. Add the broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more.
7. Once the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

What to Serve With

Pair this risotto with a simple green salad or some steamed asparagus. It can also be served as a side to grilled chicken or steak.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay would pair wonderfully with the creamy and earthy flavors of the risotto.

3. Garlic Butter Steak

Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this garlic butter steak is a meat lover’s dream. The steak is seared to perfection and then bathed in a luxurious garlic butter sauce, making every bite a succulent treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this steak will hit the spot.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ribeye steaks
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over high heat.
3. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and let them rest.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Pour the garlic butter over the steaks and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve your garlic butter steak with mashed potatoes or a baked potato and a side of green beans or sautéed spinach.

Drink Pairing

A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec pairs excellently with the rich flavors of the steak.

4. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast

Elevate your chicken dinner with these spinach and ricotta stuffed chicken breasts. They’re moist, flavorful, and packed with a creamy spinach filling that’s simply divine. This dish is not only delicious but also looks impressive, making it perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the ricotta mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

What to Serve With

Pair these stuffed chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad. Garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment.

Drink Pairing

A light Pinot Grigio or a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon would complement this dish nicely.

5. Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

These Caprese stuffed portobello mushrooms are a delightful vegetarian dish that brings together the classic flavors of a Caprese salad in a hearty, satisfying form. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil stuffed into meaty portobello mushrooms is simply irresistible.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the portobello mushrooms and remove the stems.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the mushrooms with the tomato mixture and place on a baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and bake for 15-20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted.

What to Serve With

Serve these stuffed mushrooms with a side of mixed greens or a crusty baguette.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Chianti or a refreshing iced tea with lemon would pair well with the Caprese flavors.

6. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Treat your mom to a taste of the sea with this vibrant lemon garlic shrimp scampi. Sauté plump shrimp in a garlic-infused butter sauce along with lemon juice, white wine, and red pepper flakes until cooked through and coated in a flavorful sauce.

Serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the shrimp, lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this shrimp scampi over a bed of linguine or with a side of crusty garlic bread. A simple green salad also makes a great side.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Chardonnay or a crisp, cold lemonade would complement the lemon garlic shrimp scampi beautifully.

7. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

This vegetable stir-fry with tofu is a vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Packed with colorful veggies and protein-rich tofu, it’s a great way to enjoy a variety of textures and flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the wok and stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice. A side of miso soup would also complement the dish nicely.

Drink Pairing

A glass of green tea or a light, refreshing sake would pair well with the flavors of this vegetable stir-fry.

8. Creamy Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Indulge your mom’s love for pasta with this creamy pesto pasta dish loaded with sun-dried tomatoes. Toss cooked pasta with a creamy pesto sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness and depth of flavor, and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat a little oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for a few minutes until heated through.
5. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this creamy pesto pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caprese salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a refreshing sparkling water with lime would be perfect with this pasta dish.

9. Roast Chicken with Herbed Potatoes

Keep it classic with a roast chicken dinner featuring tender chicken and crispy herbed potatoes. Rub a whole chicken with a mixture of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, then roast until golden and juicy.

Roast potatoes alongside the chicken for a hearty and comforting side dish. Serve with steamed green beans or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken
• 1.5 lbs potatoes, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the lemon halves inside the chicken.
3. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with the potatoes.
5. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown.

What to Serve With

Serve this roast chicken with a side of steamed green beans or a mixed green salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Chardonnay or a crisp apple cider would pair nicely with this roast chicken and herbed potatoes.

10. Eggplant Parmesan

For a vegetarian twist on a classic Italian dish, make eggplant Parmesan for Mother’s Day dinner. Slice eggplant into rounds, dip in egg wash and breadcrumbs, then fry until golden brown and crispy.

Layer the fried eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. Serve with spaghetti and a side of garlic bread for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dredge the eggplant slices in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, fried eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What to Serve With

Serve Eggplant Parmesan with a side of spaghetti or a fresh green salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Chianti or a sparkling mineral water with lemon would be perfect with this dish.

11. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

For a nutritious and flavorful dinner option, try quinoa stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and spices.

These colorful and hearty stuffed peppers are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a healthy and satisfying choice for Mother’s Day dinner. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado for added creaminess.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the bell peppers with the quinoa mixture and place in a baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese if using, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

What to Serve With

Serve these stuffed bell peppers with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips or a simple green salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a cold, refreshing iced tea would complement this dish nicely.

12. Lobster Linguine in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Elevate your Mother’s Day dinner with luxurious lobster linguine in creamy Alfredo sauce. Sauté lobster meat in garlic-infused butter until cooked through, then toss with cooked linguine and a velvety Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg.

Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness, and serve with a glass of chilled white wine for a decadent dining experience.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz linguine
• 1 lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is thickened.
5. Add the lobster meat and cook until heated through.
6. Toss the cooked linguine in the sauce until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this lobster linguine with a side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Chardonnay or a sparkling wine would pair wonderfully with this rich and creamy dish.

13. Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats

For a light and flavorful dinner, make Mediterranean stuffed zucchini boats filled with a mixture of couscous, chickpeas, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Hollow out zucchini halves and stuff with the savory filling, then bake until tender and golden.

Serve with a drizzle of tzatziki sauce or a side of Greek salad for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 zucchini, halved lengthwise and scooped out
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, red onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the zucchini halves with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the filling is heated through.

What to Serve With

Serve these zucchini boats with a side of couscous or a Greek salad.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing lemonade would pair well with this dish.

14. Thai Red Curry with Tofu and Vegetables

Treat your mom to the exotic flavors of Thailand with a fragrant and spicy Thai red curry featuring tofu and vegetables.

Simmer tofu, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas in a rich and creamy red curry sauce made with coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying and aromatic Mother’s Day dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
6. Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return the tofu to the wok and cook until heated through. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this Thai red curry with jasmine rice or rice noodles.

Drink Pairing

A glass of chilled Riesling or a cold Thai iced tea would complement this dish perfectly.

15. Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Raspberry balsamic glazed pork tenderloin is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. The tender pork is glazed with a rich raspberry balsamic sauce, creating a delightful contrast of flavors that will impress your taste buds.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, sear the pork on all sides until browned.
4. In a bowl, mix the raspberry jam, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
5. Brush the glaze over the pork and transfer to a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

What to Serve With

Serve this pork tenderloin with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or mashed potatoes.

Drink Pairing

A glass of Pinot Noir or a sparkling water with a splash of raspberry syrup would pair wonderfully with this dish.

Related posts:

15 Dinner Ideas for Kids 15 Dinner Ideas with Ground Beef 15 Dinner Ideas with Rice 15 Seafood Dinner Ideas 15 Gluten Free Dinner Ideas 15 Easy 30 Minute Dinner Ideas 15 Best Comfort Dinner Recipes 15 Chicken Dinner Ideas