Celebrating Passover in Bethesda: Recipe Favorites

The Jewish holiday of Passover, which begins Monday and ends Tuesday, April 2, marks the emancipation of the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jewish families gather to read from the Haggadah and celebrate the Passover Seder.

Traditions are an integral part of the holiday, but if you’re looking for some new recipes to try out this year, here's some great versions of traditional Passover staples from www.foodnetwork.com.

Charoset: While there’s many ways to make this traditional Passover relish, this recipe from Food Network Magazine combines apples, pistachios and dates.

Braised Short Ribs: Try this flavorful recipe from Wolfgang Puck, but you’ll need to budget in about two and a half hours for braising.

Roasted Spicy Carrots: For a traditional roasted vegetable dish, try this recipe for roasted carrots with Za’atar, a zippy Middle Eastern spice blend with sumac, marjoram, thyme and sesame.

Spiced Tea Punch: Punch adds a little something special to any get-together. Try this springtime recipe with cinnamon and apple.

Flourless Walnut-Date Cake: What better way to top of your Passover feast than with a rich, crunchy nut cake?

Hungry for more? Check out Rosa Mexicano's poblano matzo balls or Passover-ready spinach mina.

What are your favorite Passover recipes? Tell us in the comments.