Chef Nikki Shaw: Easter is a sacred celebration of the resurrection of Christ. This holiday is also known for pretty pastel Easter outfits, dyeing eggs and delicious family dinners. In addition to feasting on fantastic foods, everyone looks forward to those rich milk chocolate bunnies.

Easter dinner traditions are different among families throughout the world. Making a huge ham is customary for many families in the United States. This year, make your Easter dinner extraordinary with "Tropical Mango & Pineapple Glazed Ham." Choosing the right side dishes is essential. Here are a few ideas: au gratin potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, fresh green beans or steamed broccoli.

"NIK TIP": Spend some quality time with kids in the kitchen during the Easter holiday. They can be your own children, or someone else's.

It's usually a combination of both at our house -- my kids love to "make it a party" whenever possible. Get a bunch of colorful Easter egg supplies and let them dye and decorate the eggs. Be sure to buy extra large eggs from the store; they give you more room to be creative!

In this bitter economy, I'll show you how to make life sweet right at home.

Celebrity Chef Nikki Shaw is the owner of Flavor Caterer in Oakland, Calif., and was a finalist on the Food Network's "Next Food Network Star." She is the host of the radio show "Today's Flavor," broadcast on San Francisco's KBLX and webcast on WBLS in New York. She is married to L.A. Lakers' Assistant Coach Brian Shaw and lives in both Northern and Southern California with their three children. www.chefnikkishaw.com