Easter is one of my favorite times to gather with loved ones and share a delicious meal. And while the ham might be the star of the show, let’s not forget the side dishes.
They can truly make or break your holiday spread. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, planning something simple and healthy, or looking for cute ideas that kids will love, I’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to Easter side dishes.
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23+ Easter Side Dishes Recipes and Ideas






























Classic Easter Salads
No Easter meal feels complete without a fresh and vibrant salad. One of my go-to options is a traditional potato salad. It’s a classic that’s easy to make ahead and always a hit with a crowd. Toss in some fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika to give it that homemade touch.
For something lighter, an Italian-inspired caprese salad works beautifully. Layer slices of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for both kids and adults.
If you’re aiming for healthy options, a spring mix salad with strawberries, almonds, and a honey vinaigrette is always a winner. It’s refreshing, colorful, and screams springtime.
Potato Side Dish Ideas
Potatoes are a staple for any Easter table. You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes, but I love switching it up with scalloped potatoes baked until golden and bubbly. They’re rich, comforting, and pair beautifully with ham.
For a fun twist, consider twice-baked potatoes. You can make them ahead, and they’re easy to customize with cheese, bacon, or even a dollop of sour cream.
If you’re hosting a crowd, roasted baby potatoes are an easy option. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary, then roast until crispy. They’re cheap, simple to prepare, and taste amazing.
Vegetable Dishes That Shine
Vegetables don’t have to be boring! One of my favorite Easter recipes is glazed carrots. They’re sweet, colorful, and easy to make in a crockpot, freeing up oven space for other dishes.
Asparagus is another must-have. Roast it with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper, or wrap it in prosciutto for a cute and fancy presentation.
For a fun and unexpected side, try Italian-style roasted cauliflower. Toss it with garlic, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then bake until crispy. It’s healthy, delicious, and even kids will enjoy it.
Casseroles and Bakes
Casseroles are a lifesaver when feeding a crowd because they’re easy to make ahead and serve. A traditional green bean casserole is always a hit, with its creamy mushroom base and crunchy onion topping.
For something a little different, a cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is hearty and satisfying. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
If you’re looking for cute and fun options, consider a sweet potato casserole topped with mini marshmallows. It’s not just a side dish—it’s practically dessert.
Cold Easter Side Dishes
Cold dishes are ideal for Easter since they can be prepared ahead and don’t require oven space. A cold pasta salad with Italian dressing, cherry tomatoes, and olives is a simple yet flavorful option.
Deviled eggs are another Easter classic. They’re cheap to make, fun to customize, and look adorable on the table. Add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh dill for extra flair.
If you want something more unique, try a beet and goat cheese salad. It’s colorful, healthy, and adds a touch of elegance to your spread.
Bread and Rolls
No Easter table is complete without warm, fluffy bread. Soft dinner rolls are a traditional favorite, but I also love making Italian focaccia with rosemary and sea salt. It’s easy to slice into squares for serving a crowd.
For a healthier twist, whole-grain rolls with honey butter are a simple way to balance indulgence and nutrition.
Want something a bit more fun? Try bunny-shaped bread rolls. They’re cute, festive, and kids will absolutely adore them.
Crockpot Side Dishes
Using a crockpot is a game-changer, especially when you have a busy kitchen. One of my favorite recipes is slow-cooked garlic mashed potatoes. They stay warm for hours and are incredibly creamy.
Another crockpot winner is cheesy corn. It’s rich, comforting, and so easy to prepare ahead of time. Just dump everything in the pot, and let it do the work for you.
For a healthy option, try crockpot steamed vegetables. Toss in broccoli, carrots, and zucchini with a touch of seasoning, and you’ve got a simple side that’s ready to serve.
Sweet Finishing Touches
While most side dishes lean savory, I love including something sweet to balance the meal. A fruit salad with a mix of berries, melon, and a drizzle of honey is light and refreshing.
For a more indulgent option, a pineapple casserole made with chunks of pineapple, buttery crackers, and a sweet topping is a surprisingly delicious pairing with ham.
Another fun idea is glazed sweet rolls. They’re easy to make ahead, and the kids will love them as a pre-dessert treat.
Simple Tips for Easter Side Dishes
When planning your Easter sides, I always recommend including a mix of hot and cold dishes. It keeps your table dynamic and ensures there’s something for everyone.
Don’t shy away from using shortcuts, like pre-chopped veggies or store-bought dough, especially if you’re hosting a crowd.
Lastly, keep the presentation fun and festive. Even the simplest dishes can feel special with a little garnish or creative plating.
With these ideas and recipes, your Easter table is sure to impress. Whether you’re going for traditional classics or something a little different, there’s no shortage of delicious options to make this holiday meal one to remember.
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