Make Easter dinner better with these 15 must-try side dishes

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Make Easter dinner better with these 15 must-try side dishes that are guaranteed to be a hit at your holiday table. We’ve rounded up a collection of recipes that are not only easy to make but are also the perfect complement to your main course. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a small, intimate meal, these sides will add something extra special to your celebration.

Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Bowl of creamy dill cucumber onion salad in a bowl with spoons.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a refreshing Easter side, try this Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Gather cucumbers, onions, sour cream, and mayo. Mix everything and let it chill for a bit. It’s ready in 30 minutes and serves a fresh complement to heavier dishes. Serve it cool for a refreshing taste. It’s a breeze to make and perfect for a light side that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This salad is also an excellent option for those looking for a make-ahead dish, freeing up more time to enjoy with guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

A baking sheet with garnished parmesan crusted potatoes on it.
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are a must for your Easter table. You’ll want small potatoes, Parmesan, and your choice of herbs. Cut the potatoes, toss them with the cheese and herbs, and bake until crispy, about 45 minutes. They’re perfect right out of the oven for that crispy, flavorful bite. They pair well with almost any main dish, adding a hearty element to your meal. These potatoes are not just for Easter; they’re versatile enough to be a go-to side dish for any occasion too. Make sure it’s on your list of great recipes.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Buttery whole roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Add a great side dish to your Easter meal with Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. All you need is a whole cauliflower, chicken stock, and some butter. Simmer the cauliflower in stock, then roast until it’s tender inside and crispy outside, about 30 minutes. This dish is both budget-friendly and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Golden baked jicama fries garnished with parsley on a plate.
Golden Baked Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Shake things up with Golden Baked Jicama Fries. Start with jicama, peel and slice it, then boil briefly. Season as you like and bake until crispy, about an hour. These fries are a healthier take on a classic and a delicious and fun way to enjoy veggies. Serve them as a crunchy, savory side. They take a bit longer but are definitely worth the wait. A different take on traditional fries, this dish is also a conversation starter, making your meal memorable for guests.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make your Easter dinner standout with Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. It’s creamy like traditional risotto but healthier. You need cauliflower, mushrooms, and a few pantry staples. Cook everything in one pot and in 30 minutes, you have a dish that’s both delicious and light. This risotto is a fantastic way to include more veggies in your meal, effortlessly impressing your guests with its taste and nutritional value. Plus, its one-pot cooking method means less cleanup, giving you more time to spend with family.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Halloumi Fries

A person pulling apart a halloumi fry.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Add some excitement to your Easter table with Halloumi Fries. You just need halloumi cheese and your choice of seasoning. Bake them for a perfect, crispy side in 25 minutes. They’re a delicious, stress-free addition that brings a distinct flavor and texture to your meal. This dish makes a great talking point for any gathering. Plus, their quick and easy preparation is a lifesaver for last-minute hosting duties. Halloumi fries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to bring back their crispiness before serving again. This little tip ensures your fries remain a delicious part of your meal, even after Easter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Baked Sliced Zucchini

Baked sliced zucchini with parmesan on a white plate.
Baked Sliced Zucchini. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Sliced Zucchini is your go-to for an easy appetizing side. With just zucchini, Parmesan, and seasonings, bake them for 20 minutes for a crispy and soft treat. This dish is perfect for adding a quick, healthy option to your Easter dinner. It’s so good you’ll want to make it part of your regular meal rotation. This dish is also an effortless way to add a serving of vegetables to your meals that will make even the pickiest eater take a bite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sliced Zucchini

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with cheese and basil on a baking sheet.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jazz up your Easter dinner with these Baked Tomatoes. You’ll need tomatoes, Parmesan, mozzarella, herbs, and a dash of oil. Slice the tomatoes, layer on the cheese and herbs, drizzle with oil, and bake for 25 minutes. Serve them hot as a vibrant side dish. They’re super easy and quick, making your dinner look and taste better with minimal effort. Plus, this dish is a great way to use up any extra tomatoes and cheese, cutting down on waste and saving you a trip to the store.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a speedy, flavorful side, try Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Sauté cabbage, bacon, and onion for a dish ready in 25 minutes. It’s a great last-minute addition that packs your meal with flavor and greens, making it a hearty complement to any main dish. Adding apple cider vinegar or red pepper flakes can give it some extra flavor or heat. This recipe is a smart pick for those busy days when you need to whip up something quick yet filling. Even better, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long when you make this side.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser you can make ahead. It features bacon, sour cream, and cheddar. It’s perfect for making ahead, so you can focus on enjoying the holiday rather than rushing to cook. Plus, it pairs perfectly with Easter ham.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms is an easy, creative side dish you can add to your Easter spread. Fill mushroom caps and bake until golden for a delicious dish in under 30 minutes. They’re perfect for adding a touch of creativity to your dinner without much effort. With less time spent in the kitchen, you spend more time enjoying the meal. This dish is great for those looking to add a gourmet touch to their meal without the gourmet effort, easily impressing guests.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy comfort on your plate with Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Simple to prepare, it roasts into a sweet and savory side. This dish is great for cozy nights and delivers a delicious, easy-to-make side that complements roast ham, chicken, or pork perfectly. To mix it up, add cinnamon or nutmeg before roasting for a hint of warmth and spice. Its hearty and comforting nature makes it a favorite for cold evenings, while its simplicity ensures it won’t add stress to your holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Zucchini Boats are a fun, lighter side dish option. Stuffed with cheese and bacon, they’re ready in about 50 minutes. They’re perfect for adding a rich, flavorful veggie side to your Easter dinner, and they’re versatile enough to try with different fillings, making them a great way to get more vegetables into your diet. Plus, they can be customized to fit any dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table is happy and satisfied. This flexibility is especially useful for gatherings with diverse tastes, making meal planning for Easter and beyond a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

A bowl of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Brighten up your meals with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. It’s a fast, flavorful companion to any protein, ready in minutes. This dish brings fresh flavors to your table, making it lighter and healthier. Serve it with tacos or as a base for a burrito bowl, adding mango or avocado for a hint of sweet or creamy that complements the dish perfectly. Its lightness and versatility make it a superb choice for Easter and summer dinners, where you might want something less heavy than traditional rice.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Broccoli with Sun Dried Tomatoes

In FDL library.
Creamy Broccoli with Sun Dried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a quick, nutritious side, ready in 25 minutes. It’s a simple way to add a burst of flavor and color to your table, especially on busy nights. Pairing well with grilled meats, it’s a great choice for keeping Easter dinner easy and delicious. To shake things up, add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch and flavor. Its fast preparation and rich taste make it a fantastic last-minute addition that doesn’t compromise on health, perfect for those hectic evenings or when you need a quick side to complete a meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli with Sun Dried Tomatoes

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