20 Classic Easter Side Dish Recipes to Complete Your Meal
Easter is a time for fun and food with family and friends. You want to make a delicious meal that everyone will love. Let's go on a culinary adventure to find the perfect side dishes for your Easter celebration.
We have 20 classic Easter side dish recipes that are easy to make and super tasty. These recipes will make your Easter meal special and memorable. You can find out what's on the list and start cooking your favorite dishes today!
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Article Includes
1. Delicious Deviled Eggs Recipe
Classic Deviled Eggs are a staple at Easter gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
- Mash the yolks with a fork until they're well broken up.
- Stir in the mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
- Sprinkle the tops with chives.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
2. Spring Vegetable Salad Ideas
Fresh spring vegetables combine in a light and invigorating salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced radishes
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced radishes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
3. Classic Mashed Potato Dish
Classic mashed potato dish, a comforting side made from boiled potatoes.
Ingredients
- 3-4 large potatoes
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them in a bowl.
- Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes.
- Mix well until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Serve the mashed potatoes hot.
4. Green Bean Almondine Recipe
Quick and easy green bean side dish with a nutty almond flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes.
- Drain the green beans and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
- Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the green beans to the skillet and toss to combine with the almond mixture.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans and serve hot.
5. Roasted Carrot Side Dish
Roasted carrot side dish is a delicious and healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and chop the carrots into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the carrot slices to the bowl and toss to coat with the oil mixture.
- Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- Remove the carrots from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve the roasted carrots hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
6. Easy Grilled Asparagus Recipe
Grilled asparagus is a simple and delicious side dish perfect for Easter.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Rinse the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill the asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon zest and parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and serve hot.
7. Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Traditional Hot Cross Buns are sweet, spiced buns marked with a cross, typically served on Good Friday.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup dried currants
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast, stir to dissolve.
- Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add melted butter, egg, currants, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the dough, mix until a sticky ball forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, and then flatten slightly into a disk.
- Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each bun.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glaze.
- Use a knife or pastry brush to create a cross on top of each bun.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.
8. Honey Glazed Parsnip Recipe
Sweet and sticky honey glazed parsnips make a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 large parsnips
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and chop the parsnips into 1-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Add the parsnip pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the parsnips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
9. Simple Spring Pea Salad
A light and revitalizing salad featuring spring peas and crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients
- 1 cup spring peas
- 6 slices prosciutto
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spring peas in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Chop the prosciutto into small pieces and cook in a pan until crispy.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and slice the mozzarella cheese.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spring peas, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
10. Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
A creamy coleslaw recipe perfect for accompanying Easter meats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
11. Baked Sweet Potato Casserole
A classic Easter side dish, baked sweet potato casserole is a sweet and savory delight.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with marshmallows and pecans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
12. Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad is an invigorating side dish with citrus and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa and cook it according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
- While the quinoa is cooking, squeeze the juice of 2 lemons into a bowl.
- Add olive oil, chopped parsley, and dried thyme to the bowl with lemon juice.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the bowl with the lemon mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well.
- Serve the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature.
13. Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes
Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes are a flavorful side dish perfect for Easter.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut the potatoes into wedges or small chunks.
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with the mixture.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
- Serve the Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes hot.
14. Steamed Broccoli With Lemon
Steamed broccoli with a hint of lemon is a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the water.
- Add broccoli to the steamer basket and cover the pot.
- Steam for 4-6 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Remove broccoli from the steamer and toss with the lemon mixture.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
15. Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe
Creamy mac and cheese, a comforting classic dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with additional grated cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
16. Roasted Beet Salad Recipe
Roasted beet salad is a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 large beets
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
- Let the beets cool, then peel and slice them into wedges.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the mixed greens, sliced beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts to the bowl.
- Toss the salad to combine, then serve immediately.
17. Easter Ham Glaze Recipe
Sweet and sticky Easter ham glaze recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
- Place the ham on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Bake the ham in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Baste the ham with the glaze every 20 minutes during cooking.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
18. Braised Red Cabbage Recipe
Braised red cabbage is a sweet and tangy side dish perfect for Easter.
Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the sliced red cabbage, chopped apple, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
19. Potato and Leek Gratin Recipe
Creamy Potato and Leek Gratin is a rich side dish perfect for Easter.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover them.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and cook the sliced leeks until they are softened and lightly browned.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes.
- Top the potatoes with a layer of cooked leeks, then sprinkle with cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Pour heavy cream over the top layer of cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
20. Fresh Fruit Salad Recipe
A rejuvenating and healthy fruit salad perfect for Easter celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries
- 1 cup grapes
- 1 cup pineapple
- 1 orange
- 1 apple
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and chop all the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped fruits.
- In a small bowl, mix honey and lemon juice.
- Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the fruit salad.
- Toss gently to coat the fruits with the honey-lemon mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Conclusion
You've now explored 20 classic Easter side dishes, debunking the theory that traditional meals can't be innovative. Research shows that combining old and new flavors can elevate any holiday meal, making it unforgettable. Your Easter menu just got a major boost with these recipes, proving that classic dishes can be both nostalgic and exciting.