Easter celebrations wouldn’t be complete without a delectable meal at the center of it all. As much as the chocolate and quality time with loved ones are cherished aspects, it’s the savory flavors that truly bring people together. The star of the show often takes the form of roasted poultry, but it’s the supporting cast – the sides – that elevate the entire dining experience.
From classic combinations like roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes to innovative twists, Easter side dishes offer a wealth of options. Whether you’re looking to stick with tradition or try something new, we’ve curated over 30 mouthwatering ideas to inspire your holiday feast.
Creamy Potatoes Au Gratin
Indulge in a game-changing twist on traditional mashed potatoes. This recipe yields layers of thinly sliced spuds smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, all perfectly baked to a golden brown crispiness on top. Envision the ultimate potato experience – think of it as a lasagna-inspired masterpiece. Finish with some fresh chives for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Honey Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots by taking them from ordinary to extraordinary with a simple honey glaze. The resulting sweet and salty flavor combination is nothing short of addictive. You’ll find yourself craving this side dish at every meal, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and always disappears quickly, so be sure to have a backup batch on hand!
Roasted Garlic Potatoes
Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, baby potatoes infused with roasted garlic and parmesan are an absolute delight. The harmonious combination of rich Parmesan and pungent garlic creates a truly mouthwatering experience. This delectable side dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, requiring only basic ingredients and a mere 30 minutes in the oven. For added texture, give your potatoes a brief blanch before roasting, ensuring they retain their softness.
Pesto Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game by adding a burst of flavor with pesto! While simply tossing the veggies in a pan and letting them soften is easy, incorporating this creamy sauce takes it to the next level. The combination of pesto, balsamic vinegar, pine nuts, and garlic creates a harmonious balance that complements the natural sweetness of the asparagus.
This springtime side dish has won over many fans, and for good reason – the subtle tanginess of the pesto adds a depth of flavor that’s simply divine.
Creamed Spinach
For many families, Creamed Spinach is an indispensable part of their gathering traditions. This delectable side dish boasts a rich, creamy flavor profile that’s both satisfying and impressive. The recipe’s foundation lies in the harmonious union of fresh spinach, sautéed onions, Parmesan cheese, and a decadent sauce infused with buttery, garlicky goodness.
What’s more, this elegant accompaniment can be prepared in under 20 minutes, allowing for effortless advance preparation and reheating to perfection. Whether you’re hosting an Easter extravaganza or simply seeking a show-stopping side dish for your next family gathering, Creamed Spinach is sure to impress.
Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to elevating the humble mashed potato dish, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. One unexpected yet game-changing addition is a spoonful of creamy mascarpone cheese. This luxurious ingredient adds an unparalleled level of silkiness and richness to your spuds. After achieving the perfect creaminess with your potatoes, simply stir in the mascarpone and be prepared for a flavor explosion.
Of course, no mashed potato dish would be complete without a sprinkle of black pepper and salt to bring out the full flavors.
Spring Vegetable Stir Fry
For a hassle-free Easter meal that’s sure to please the crowd, look no further than this Spring Vegetable Stir Fry. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s an ideal solution for satisfying diverse palates. Simply gather your favorite spring vegetables – think carrots, green beans, and mushrooms – and sauté them in a pan with a sprinkle of flavorful seasonings. The result is a light yet tantalizing side dish that’s perfect for the Easter table.
Hasselback Potatoes With Garlic Herb Butter
Sweden’s culinary delight, Hasselback potatoes, has earned its reputation for a reason. The carefully crafted technique of slicing the potato almost in half, then baking and topping with rich garlic butter, is a recipe for gastronomic heaven. As you read this, your mouth may already be watering in anticipation.
The beauty of Hasselback potatoes lies not only in their flavor but also in their versatility – feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your taste, as there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Homemade Biscuits
Indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of homemade biscuits, crafted with ease from just a few everyday ingredients. Flaky, fluffy, buttery, and tender, these treats are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite chicken or lamb dishes – guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for years to come. For a hassle-free experience, consider using pre-made dough available at most stores. Simply unravel it, place it on a baking tray, and let the oven do its magic.
Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers have a way of elevating any meal, especially when paired with spicy tofu and a kick of hot sauce. This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, featuring a flavorful filling of rice, veggies, and tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious side dish to accompany your Easter celebration or a quick and satisfying lunch option, these stuffed peppers are sure to please. To take it to the next level, garnish with some fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Spicy Radish Salad
When it comes to feeding a crowd, salads are often the way to go, and this Spicy Radish Salad is an excellent choice. The combination of carrots, radishes, cucumber, scallions, and mint provides a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will keep guests satisfied. But what really elevates this dish is the rich, savory sauce that coats everything, with the added bonus of thinly sliced red chile peppers for an extra kick.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even add some fresh chili flakes to give it an extra spicy boost.
Grilled Broccoli
In situations where creativity is dwindling, a reliable go-to recipe like Grilled Broccoli can be the perfect solution to satisfy a large gathering of guests. Simply start by preparing freshly washed broccoli florets and then place them on the grill until they develop a satisfying char. To elevate the dish further, drizzle with olive oil and add a pinch of salt and pepper for a flavorful yet effortless side.
For an added layer of complexity, consider coating the broccoli in garlic butter to create a mouthwatering experience. With this simple yet impressive recipe, you’ll be sure to leave your guests impressed.
Balsamic Roasted Red Onions
While caramelized onions on steak may be a classic combination, these Balsamic Roasted Red Onions offer a surprisingly perfect pairing with lamb or ham during Easter celebrations. This easy recipe lets you toss the onions in the oven and let them simmer while you focus on preparing other dishes for your gathering. It’s an ideal solution when cooking for a crowd, as it allows you to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Ricotta Gnocchi With Toasted Garlic And Walnuts
Pasta is a reliable choice when it comes to complementing main courses. This Ricotta Gnocchi recipe is an excellent addition to any buffet or even becomes a staple in your weeknight meal routine due to its creamy, rich, and swift preparation time. What’s more, this dish caters to vegan diets, ensuring that everyone leaves the table feeling satisfied and content.
Spring Panzanella
While traditional Panzanella recipes often rely on ripe cherry tomatoes, you can easily create a stunning variation when those ingredients aren’t available. By incorporating toasted sourdough bread, crisp scallions, sugar snap peas, and peppery leafy greens into your dish, you’ll achieve a delightful texture contrast that complements the rich flavors of the vinaigrette. This nutritious twist on the classic recipe makes it an excellent choice for preceding a sweet treat.
Instant Pot Risotto With Parmesan
Mastering risotto can be a challenge, especially when you’re juggling multiple components in the kitchen. However, this Instant Pot recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. The result is a delectable side dish that’s sure to impress at your Easter gathering. Simply top it with some fresh Parmesan and green onion for a visually appealing and tasty accompaniment.
Spinach And Broccoli Lasagne
This crowd-pleasing lasagna recipe offers a convenient solution for using up any lingering vegetables in your fridge or freezer. If you’re short on time, feel free to rely on store-bought marinara sauce for added simplicity. This hearty dish is designed to bring everyone together, and the addition of Pecorino Romano adds a tangy depth that’s hard to resist – all without requiring any meat. A satisfying and comforting option that’s perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner party.
Springs In A Blanket
Indulge in a delightful Easter celebration by serving up Springs in a Blanket, a delectable twist on traditional asparagus dishes. The combination of tender asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon or prosciutto and flaky puff pastry is sure to delight even the most discerning eaters. For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle grated pecorino cheese for a tangy, cheesy kick. This impressive side dish or appetizer is perfect for any Easter gathering.
Green Goddess Carrot Salad
Indulge in a refreshing Green Goddess dressing infused with the sweetness of roasted carrots, crisp lettuce, and other vegetables of your choice. This delectable concoction is sure to become an obsession, prompting you to crave it on everything. To bring out the best in your carrots, make sure they’re roasted to tender perfection before combining them with your salad ingredients. Present your masterpiece in a large bowl, allowing everyone to dig in and savor the flavors.
While we predict that there won’t be any leftovers, feel free to store any excess in the fridge for up to three days.
Buttery Rosemary Rolls
When hosting a gathering for family or friends, it’s essential to cater to diverse tastes. While many may have different preferences, desserts often prove to be a universal crowd-pleaser. However, these Buttery Rosemary Rolls are likely to steal the show. By combining sweet and buttery flavors with crispy, savory notes from the rosemary and flaky sea salt, you’ll create a truly memorable dining experience.
To ensure optimal results, bake these dinner rolls ahead of time and warm them in the oven just before serving your guests.
Spicy Sesame Sugar Snaps
While no feast is complete without a sweet treat, the Spicy Sesame Sugar Snaps recipe takes things to the next level. This delectable side dish strikes the perfect balance between heat and flavor, making it an ideal addition to any Easter celebration.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to add just the right amount of spice without overpowering the other dishes on the table.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare – simply store the finished snaps in an airtight container and enjoy them as a quick snack when your guests have departed.
To take things to the next level, consider adding a drizzle of honey to the snaps for an added touch of sweetness that complements the spicy kick perfectly. With this recipe, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with a unique and delicious twist on traditional Easter treats.
Brown Butter Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts, a divisive veggie, can be transformed from polarizing to pleasing with the right accompaniment. By smothering them in a rich brown butter sauce, complete with toasted almonds for added depth and sweetness, you’ll win over even the most skeptical eaters. The addition of tart lemon juice and sweet raisins ensures a delightful balance of flavors. As you coat your Brussels sprouts and onions in this savory mixture, you’ll be amazed at how harmoniously everything comes together.
And if you’re feeling mischievous, try serving them to kids without revealing their identity – the look of joy on their faces will be priceless!
Crispy Beet And Mozzarella Salad
As the seasons transition, a lighter yet satisfying approach to meals becomes increasingly appealing. This is where the stunning Crispy Beet and Mozzarella Salad truly shines. The roasted beets add a delightful textural element, elevating the classic salad experience to new heights of flavor and visual appeal. Moreover, this recipe serves as an excellent means of infusing your table with vibrant colors and a touch of healthy indulgence.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes With Caper Vinaigrette
To create this delightful side dish, gather any potatoes you have available, such as Yukon gold or sweet potatoes. Dice them into smaller pieces and coat evenly with olive oil. Roast the potatoes in the oven until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once they’ve reached perfection, give them a toss in your caper vinaigrette before serving. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
For an added layer of complexity, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top to balance out the dish with its tangy notes. Enjoy!
Spinach And Artichoke Baked Pasta
It’s no surprise that a spinach-artichoke dip is often the first to go at any gathering. And when you take it to the next level by adding short pasta, its popularity will only continue to soar. One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to two months, making it perfect for busy hostesses. Simply thaw and warm when your guests are ready to dig in.
Scallion Cornbread
Impressing others with a show-stopping cornbread can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the plethora of exceptional recipes already available. However, this Scallion Cornbread recipe is designed to instill confidence and generate rave reviews. By incorporating Scallion-infused butter, which lends an irresistible sweet onion flavor, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
To take it to the next level, simply top with a pat of butter and allow it to melt as you serve your guests. This cornbread is perfect for serving as a side dish or a bite-sized starter to keep everyone engaged.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in a delectable side dish worthy of a restaurant’s finest tables with this elevated Garlic Mashed Potato recipe. By incorporating fresh garlic and red skin-on potatoes, this classic comfort food gets a thrilling makeover, distinct from the traditional, smooth-skinned variety. With these homemade mashed potatoes, you’ll be grateful for the decision to stay in and cook up a storm instead of dining out on Easter.
Butter Peas With Thyme
While peas are often overlooked as a key ingredient, they can truly shine when given the right attention. Case in point: Butter Pea with Thyme, a recipe that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. By combining simple flavors, you can whip up this side dish in under 10 minutes and guarantee it’ll be the talk of the table for hours after the meal. To ensure maximum impact, we suggest using thyme in moderation – unless, of course, everyone in your dining party is a fan of its unique flavor.
And if you want to make this recipe even more effortless, consider using frozen peas and microwaving them for an added convenience that won’t compromise on taste. The best part? No one will ever know the difference!
Caprese Asparagus
Transform the classic Caprese salad into an unforgettable experience with this innovative Caprese Asparagus recipe. By roasting asparagus and tomatoes in the oven, you’ll unlock a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. The key to this dish lies in its harmonious balance of tangy balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of your choice, all perfectly coating each roasted vegetable.
And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance: a drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness to the cherry tomatoes as they bake until the cheese is melted to perfection, ready for that coveted epic cheese pull.
Homemade Garlic Bread
Garlic bread – a culinary cousin of Bruschetta that has stolen the hearts of many. Its popularity is undeniable, and for good reason. This savory delight is surprisingly easy to prepare at home, making it accessible to everyone. Unlike its Italian counterpart, which often relies on artisanal baguettes, garlic bread can be made with humble hot dog buns, reducing the cost and effort required. Simply spread garlic butter on the buns before baking, and let the magic unfold.
The result is a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for snacking throughout the day. For an added layer of flavor and indulgence, top it off with melted parmesan cheese. It’s a match made in heaven!
Baby Potato & Pea Salad With Garlic Bacon Aioli
Indulge in the ultimate crowd-pleaser with our Baby Potatoes and Pea Salad, guaranteed to vanish before you can even grab a plate. This delectable dish combines fluffy boiled baby potatoes and toasted peas infused in a rich, creamy garlic bacon aioli. The best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen – simply wash, boil, and mix your potatoes without peeling them, leaving you more time to cherish moments with loved ones.
Green Bean Casserole
Indulge in this effortless Green Bean Casserole recipe, an Easter classic that’s sure to delight. With its rich, creamy, and satisfyingly crunchy texture, it’s no wonder everyone will be hooked. The best part? It requires minimal effort, thanks to the convenience of canned mushroom soup. Whether you’re short on time or not quite confident in your culinary skills, this dish is the perfect solution.
Final Thoughts
Easter is the perfect opportunity to gather loved ones and create unforgettable memories. The holiday’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal time to bond over delicious food and engaging activities. Whether you’re a master chef or a culinary newbie, there are plenty of mouth-watering recipes to elevate your Easter celebration. Our extensive collection boasts over 30 scrumptious side dishes that pair beautifully with traditional Easter meals.
From timeless roasted vegetables to innovative twists like spicy sugar snaps, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And when it comes to dessert, the possibilities are endless – we’re eager to hear what sweet treats you plan to indulge in this Easter!
