22 Amazingly Delicious Easter Side Dishes

Easter isn’t just about the main dish—it’s the supporting cast that truly makes the meal shine.

Think of your ham, lamb, or turkey as the lead actor, while the side dishes are the award-winning ensemble that brings everything together.

From buttery mashed potatoes to honey-glazed carrots, we’re diving into the most delicious, family-friendly Easter side dishes that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This guide is packed with tried-and-true classics, modern twists, and flavorful crowd-pleasers—all made with simple, everyday ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone who only dusts off the apron for special occasions, these recipes will have you looking like a pro in the kitchen.

🌸 Traditional Easter Side Dishes

Easter feasts have been bringing families together for generations, and many of the dishes we serve today have deep roots in tradition.

Whether it’s a basket of warm, buttery rolls or the iconic deviled eggs (which disappear faster than chocolate bunnies), these classics have stood the test of time.

Here are a few timeless favorites that belong on your Easter table:

• Deviled Eggs – Creamy, tangy, and impossible to eat just one.
• Hot Cross Buns – Sweet, spiced rolls that are as symbolic as they are delicious.
• Scalloped Potatoes – Layers of thinly sliced potatoes swimming in a rich, cheesy sauce.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet, buttery, and a favorite of both kids and adults.
• Roasted Root Vegetables – A colorful mix of earthy, caramelized veggies.

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and start cooking.

🥕 22 Amazingly Delicious Easter Side Dishes

1. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes 🥔🧀

The ultimate comfort food. These scalloped potatoes are bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce and baked until golden brown. This dish is so good, it could steal the spotlight from the Easter ham.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Rich & Creamy: A dreamy, cheesy sauce that hugs every slice.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, maximum flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Arrange the potatoes in overlapping layers in the dish.
3. Make the sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat until warm but not boiling.
4. Assemble: Pour half the sauce over the potatoes, sprinkle half the cheese, then repeat with the remaining sauce and cheese.
5. Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Net Carbs: 25g

Recipe Notes:

• Swap cheddar for Gruyère for a fancier twist.
• Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky kick.

2. Honey-Glazed Carrots 🍯🥕

Sweet, buttery, and perfectly tender, these honey-glazed carrots are the side dish that even veggie-haters can’t resist. The glaze caramelizes in the oven, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these!
• Perfectly Sweet & Savory: The honey-butter combo is divine.
• Only 5 Ingredients!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the carrots with melted butter, honey, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 150
• Carbs: 20g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 7g
• Net Carbs: 18g

Recipe Notes:

• Swap honey for maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
• Want a little spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus 🌿🧄

Asparagus is the unsung hero of Easter side dishes. Roasting brings out its natural nuttiness, and the garlic-Parmesan combo? Chef’s kiss!

Why You’ll Love It:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Crispy & Flavorful: No sad, soggy asparagus here!
• Pairs with Everything: Perfect with ham, turkey, or lamb.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10–12 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and lemon zest before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Net Carbs: 3g

Recipe Notes:

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end.

4. Buttery Mashed Potatoes 🥔🧈

Some side dishes are non-negotiable—and mashed potatoes top the list. Creamy, rich, and loaded with buttery goodness, these mashed potatoes will have everyone scraping the bowl for one last bite.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Ultra Creamy: No dry or lumpy potatoes here!
• Rich & Flavorful: Butter, heavy cream, and garlic take it to the next level.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Reheats like a dream.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup heavy cream (warm)
• ½ cup whole milk (warm)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Mash the potatoes while they’re still warm. For extra smooth potatoes, use a potato ricer.
3. Heat the butter, cream, milk, and garlic in a small saucepan until warm. Pour over the mashed potatoes.
4. Stir in salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. Serve warm.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 290
• Carbs: 35g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 15g
• Net Carbs: 33g

Recipe Notes:

• For extra flavor, add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
• Want it extra silky? Swap half the butter for cream cheese.

5. Baked Macaroni and Cheese 🧀🍝

Easter or not, mac and cheese is always a hit. This baked version has a crispy, golden crust with a creamy, cheesy interior. It’s the kind of dish that steals the show—you’ve been warned!

Why You’ll Love It:

• Ultra Cheesy: A three-cheese blend makes it next-level good.
• Baked to Perfection: Creamy inside, crispy on top.
• Kid-Approved: The little ones will fight for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly.
3. Melt the cheese: Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Combine with pasta and transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 410
• Carbs: 38g
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 22g
• Net Carbs: 35g

Recipe Notes:

• Add crispy bacon for a smoky twist.
• Swap Gruyère for pepper jack if you like a little heat.

6. Fresh Spring Pea Salad 🥗🌿

Nothing says springtime like fresh peas! This bright, refreshing salad is the perfect balance to all the rich Easter dishes. With crunchy radishes, creamy feta, and a tangy lemon dressing, it’s like springtime in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Light & Fresh: Perfect for balancing heavier dishes.
• Crunchy & Creamy: The best of both worlds.
• Super Quick: Ready in 10 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh (or frozen) peas, thawed
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the peas, radishes, feta, and mint in a bowl.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 5g
• Net Carbs: 13g

Recipe Notes:

• Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
• Add toasted almonds for a little crunch.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon 🥓🌿

If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, it’s because you’ve never had them roasted with crispy bacon. Roasting gives them golden, caramelized edges and bacon makes everything 100x better.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Crispy & Flavorful: No soggy sprouts here!
• Smoky & Savory: Bacon makes it irresistible.
• Easy to Make: Minimal effort, big flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and sprinkle bacon pieces on top.
4. Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Carbs: 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Net Carbs: 6g

Recipe Notes:

• For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
• Love heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

8. Lemon Herb Quinoa 🍋🌿

This light and fluffy quinoa dish is bursting with bright flavors. It’s a healthier alternative to rice or potatoes but still packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Zesty & Fresh: Lemon and herbs make it pop.
• Super Healthy: High in protein and fiber.
• Pairs with Everything: A great balance for rich dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa in broth according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork.
2. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 4g
• Net Carbs: 28g

Recipe Notes:

• Add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
• Swap parsley for basil for a different flavor.

9. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole 🥦🧀

Broccoli covered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs—this dish is like mac and cheese’s healthier cousin. It’s the kind of crowd-pleasing casserole that disappears from the table in minutes.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Super Cheesy: Three cheeses make this dish extra rich.
• Crispy on Top, Creamy Inside: The perfect texture balance.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love it!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and cream. Stir until thickened.
4. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the sauce, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the broccoli and cheese sauce in the baking dish.
6. Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 290
• Carbs: 14g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Net Carbs: 12g

Recipe Notes:

• Add cooked bacon for extra flavor.
• Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery crunch.

10. Creamed Spinach 🌿🥛

This decadent, velvety side dish is packed with flavor thanks to garlic, Parmesan, and a rich cream sauce. It’s perfect alongside ham or turkey and feels fancy without any extra effort.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Creamy & Indulgent: A luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: Only takes 15 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor: Garlic and Parmesan take it to another level.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed, and drained)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft.
2. Add garlic and spinach and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, cooking until melted and combined.
4. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 230
• Carbs: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 20g
• Net Carbs: 4g

Recipe Notes:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, classic touch.
• Serve with toasted breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.

11. Glazed Sweet Potatoes 🍠🍯

These melt-in-your-mouth sweet potatoes are roasted with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, creating a caramelized, sticky glaze that makes them totally addictive.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Naturally Sweet & Buttery: Like candy, but better.
• Minimal Ingredients: You probably have everything in your pantry.
• Perfect for Easter: The ideal complement to ham or turkey.

Ingredients:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the sticky goodness!

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Carbs: 42g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Net Carbs: 39g

Recipe Notes:

• Add chopped pecans for a crunchy contrast.
• For a savory twist, skip the sugar and roast with rosemary and garlic.

12. Herb-Infused Dinner Rolls 🍞🌿

No Easter meal is complete without warm, fluffy rolls. These buttery, herb-infused rolls are soft on the inside and golden on the outside—perfect for sopping up gravy.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Soft & Pillowy: The perfect texture for dinner rolls.
• Fragrant & Buttery: Infused with garlic and fresh herbs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Mix yeast, warm milk, and sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in flour, salt, melted butter, herbs, and egg. Knead until smooth.
3. Let the dough rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
4. Divide into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Brush with melted butter before serving.

Nutrition (per roll):

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Net Carbs: 26g

Recipe Notes:

• Add grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Swap herbs for garlic butter for a more savory kick.

13. Cranberry Walnut Coleslaw 🥗🍏

This isn’t your typical coleslaw. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet, and full of texture thanks to tangy cranberries, crisp apples, and toasted walnuts. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it the perfect fresh side for your Easter feast.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Crunchy, Sweet & Tangy: A perfect balance of flavors.
• Lighter than Traditional Coleslaw: No heavy mayo overload.
• Perfect for Make-Ahead: Tastes even better after chilling.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 small apple, julienned
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apple, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. Whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over the slaw and toss until well coated.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Carbs: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 16g
• Net Carbs: 16g

Recipe Notes:

• Swap walnuts for pecans if you prefer a milder nut flavor.
• Want a zestier dressing? Add 1 tsp Dijon mustard.

14. Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower 🧀🌿

Roasted cauliflower gets a glow-up with Parmesan and garlic. It’s crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and seriously addictive. Even self-proclaimed cauliflower haters will go back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Crispy, Cheesy & Garlicky: An unbeatable combo.
• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: A great alternative to starchy sides.
• Super Simple: Toss, roast, enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and return to the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 11g
• Net Carbs: 6g

Recipe Notes:

• Love spice? Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Swap Parmesan for grated Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.

15. Spinach and Strawberry Salad 🍓🥬

Easter deserves a salad that’s as festive as the holiday itself. Sweet, juicy strawberries and fresh spinach pair beautifully with a light, tangy dressing. This salad is refreshing, colorful, and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Sweet & Savory: Strawberries and feta make a perfect duo.
• Bright & Fresh: A great contrast to heavier dishes.
• Dressed to Impress: Looks stunning on the table!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss together spinach, strawberries, feta, and almonds.
2. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, mustard, and salt.
3. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 170
• Carbs: 14g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 11g
• Net Carbs: 12g

Recipe Notes:

• Add grilled chicken to turn this into a light meal.
• Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier bite.

16. Garlic Butter Mushrooms 🧄🍄

These buttery, garlicky mushrooms are rich, savory, and downright irresistible. They’re the perfect umami-packed side dish to complement your Easter spread.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Garlic & Butter Magic: So simple, yet so good.
• Perfect with Everything: A great match for ham, turkey, or lamb.
• Only 5 Ingredients!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mushrooms, halved
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Toss in mushrooms and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley. Serve warm.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Net Carbs: 3g

Recipe Notes:

• Want a hint of tang? Add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Like it extra buttery? Stir in an extra tbsp of butter at the end.

17. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole 🥔🧀🥓

Think baked potatoes, but even better. This casserole is layered with cheese, bacon, and sour cream, making it the ultimate Easter comfort food.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Cheesy, Creamy & Loaded: Everything you love about a baked potato.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the day before.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves it!

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes, then drain.
2. Mash with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread in a greased baking dish and top with cheddar, mozzarella, and bacon.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly.
5. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 380
• Carbs: 42g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Net Carbs: 40g

Recipe Notes:

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a little spice.
• Want it extra creamy? Add ¼ cup cream cheese.

18. Zesty Lemon Rice 🍋🍚

Light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor, this zesty lemon rice is the perfect fresh and fragrant side dish to balance out a rich Easter meal. With bright notes of lemon and fresh herbs, it pairs wonderfully with ham, lamb, or turkey.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Bright & Refreshing: A fresh contrast to heavier dishes.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything on hand.
• Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (or dill for a Greek twist)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the rice, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork and stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Carbs: 32g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 5g
• Net Carbs: 30g

Recipe Notes:

• Want a more aromatic flavor? Add ½ tsp turmeric for a golden hue.
• Mix in toasted almonds for a crunchy texture.

19. Maple-Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash 🍁🎃

Sweet, caramelized butternut squash with a touch of cinnamon and maple syrup—this dish tastes like autumn but belongs at Easter. The squash roasts to perfection, creating buttery, golden bites that melt in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Naturally Sweet & Buttery: A great balance of flavors.
• Beautiful Color: Looks stunning on the Easter table.
• Easy & Foolproof: Toss, roast, and serve!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 26g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Net Carbs: 23g

Recipe Notes:

• Sprinkle with toasted pecans for extra crunch.
• Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet heat.

20. Classic Caesar Salad 🥬🧄

A fresh, crisp Caesar salad is the perfect way to lighten up an Easter feast. This version has a rich, garlicky dressing, homemade croutons, and plenty of Parmesan cheese.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Crisp & Creamy: The ultimate balance of textures.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: A timeless favorite.
• Pairs with Anything: Complements all main dishes.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
2. Toss lettuce, Parmesan, and croutons in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle with dressing and toss again.
4. Serve immediately.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 190
• Carbs: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 14g
• Net Carbs: 9g

Recipe Notes:

• Add grilled chicken for a more filling dish.
• Swap croutons for toasted almonds for a gluten-free option.

21. Cheddar and Chive Biscuits 🧀🍞

Warm, buttery biscuits with sharp cheddar and fresh chives—light, fluffy, and totally addictive. These pair perfectly with ham or any Easter main dish.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Soft & Fluffy: The perfect texture.
• Cheesy & Buttery: A flavor-packed bite.
• Quick & Easy: No yeast needed!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped chives
• ¾ cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cheddar and chives.
5. Slowly add buttermilk, stirring until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition (per biscuit):

• Calories: 220
• Carbs: 24g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Net Carbs: 22g

Recipe Notes:

• Add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Brush with melted butter right out of the oven for extra richness.

22. Tropical Fruit Salad 🍍🥭

Easter calls for something light and refreshing, and this tropical fruit salad is just the thing. With juicy pineapple, mango, and kiwi, it’s a sweet and tangy way to cleanse your palate.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Naturally Sweet & Juicy: No added sugar needed!
• Colorful & Beautiful: A festive addition to any table.
• Takes 5 Minutes to Make!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 cup mango, diced
• 1 cup kiwi, sliced
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the fruit.
2. Drizzle with lime juice (and honey if using).
3. Toss gently and serve chilled.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 27g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Net Carbs: 25g

Recipe Notes:

• Want a more tropical twist? Add shredded coconut.
• Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness.

Conclusion: The Perfect Easter Feast Starts with the Perfect Side Dishes 🌸

Easter is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration of family, faith, and food. And while the main dish might take center stage, it’s the incredible side dishes that make the meal truly unforgettable.

From creamy scalloped potatoes to buttery biscuits, from zesty lemon rice to glazed sweet potatoes, each of these crave-worthy recipes brings flavor, warmth, and joy to the table.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply enjoying an intimate meal with loved ones, these dishes will fill your home with comforting aromas and happy memories.

🥕 Want a classic dish that everyone loves? Mashed potatoes and baked mac & cheese never fail.
🌿 Looking for something fresh and light? A spinach and strawberry salad or tropical fruit salad will brighten up your plate.
🧄 Craving bold flavors? Parmesan roasted cauliflower and garlic butter mushrooms will steal the show.
🍞 Need that perfect bread pairing? Herb-infused dinner rolls or cheddar and chive biscuits will do the trick.

The best part? Every single one of these recipes is made with simple, everyday ingredients—no fancy, hard-to-find stuff, just wholesome, delicious food that brings people together.

🐣 An Easter to Remember

So as you gather around the table this Easter, let these dishes be more than just food—let them be a symbol of love, tradition, and togetherness. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about what’s on the plate, but who’s sitting around it.

From our kitchen to yours, Happy Easter and happy cooking! 🐰💛