D&D 5E What Spells Would You Recommend for an EK?

[Barolo]

It really bothers me that the "hand economy" makes the sword and shield EK almost unplayable.

Hardy unplayable, you just can't use reaction spells unless you take the warcaster feat - basically shield and counter spell. Everything else works out just fine, even if occasionally you skip the odd opportunity attack. In fact sword and shield is probably the best option if you plan on using war magic, since the two handed weapon damage is not as significant

Also note that the warcaster feat does wonders to your opportunity attack. Booming blade an enemy that was just trying to go past you is golden.