Easter Sides and Salads That Steal the Show

Easter side dishes can really round out your holiday meal and bring a nice balance to the main course. From fresh vegetables to creamy casseroles, there’s a mix of options to match whatever you’re serving. These sides add color, texture, and flavor to the table.

You’ll find classics like roasted carrots and scalloped potatoes, along with a few lighter or updated twists. Whether you’re cooking for a small group or a full house, these dishes are easy to scale and prep ahead. Many of them use ingredients that are already in season.

These recipes work well alongside ham, lamb, or other Easter mains. They’re simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and great for sharing. With the right sides, your Easter spread can feel both complete and effortless.

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

This crunchy salad brings together fresh broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy dressing that ties everything together. Add-ins like bacon, cheese, and sunflower seeds give it texture and flavor variety. It’s a great make-ahead side for potlucks or family dinners. It holds up well in the fridge, so leftovers are never a problem.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

Green beans roasted until slightly crisp and topped with grated Parmesan make a quick, flavorful side. The oven brings out their natural sweetness, while the cheese adds a salty finish. They’re easy to prep and pair well with almost any main dish. A great option when you want something simple with a little extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

Layered Salad

This classic salad stacks colorful veggies, cheese, and bacon in a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. The creamy dressing goes on top, so it stays crisp until ready to serve. Perfect for making ahead and bringing to gatherings. It’s one of those dishes that disappears fast at the table.
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad

Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—these roasted potatoes are coated in a mix of Parmesan and herbs. They bake up golden and flavorful, making them an easy crowd-pleaser. Serve them as a side or snack, and they’ll go quickly either way. Simple ingredients, great result.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Potatoes

Slow Cooker Corn Pudding

This creamy, spoonable dish blends sweet corn with a soft, custard-like base. The slow cooker makes it hands-off, perfect for holiday meals or busy days. It’s warm, rich, and just the right mix of sweet and savory. A go-to comfort food that doesn’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Corn Pudding

Cabbage Apple Salad

Crisp cabbage and sweet apples come together in this light, refreshing slaw. A tangy dressing balances the sweetness, and a sprinkle of nuts adds crunch. Great as a side for grilled meats or sandwiches. It’s a simple way to enjoy seasonal produce with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Orange Rice

This colorful rice dish gets its flavor from orange juice and zest, creating a citrusy, slightly sweet twist. It pairs well with chicken or fish and adds a bright note to the plate. A few herbs or toasted nuts can bring even more dimension. Great when you’re looking to switch up your usual side dish routine.
Get the Recipe: Orange Rice

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a mellow garlic flavor make the perfect comfort food side. The garlic is cooked until soft and blended right in for a smooth, rich finish. These work well with everything from roast chicken to weeknight meatloaf. A staple that always earns seconds.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Candied Pecan Marshmallow Sweet Potato Casserole

This sweet potato bake has a soft, creamy base and a crunchy topping of candied pecans and marshmallows. It walks the line between side dish and dessert and often ends up being both. The contrast in textures makes every bite interesting. A holiday favorite, but good enough to make more often.
Get the Recipe: Candied Pecan Marshmallow Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Classic green beans almondine gets a flavor upgrade with crispy bacon and toasted almonds. The beans stay crisp-tender, while the add-ins bring salty and nutty notes. It’s quick to prepare but feels a little more dressed up than usual. A great side when you want something a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Light and fluffy cauliflower rice is brightened up with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. It’s a flavorful, low-carb option that pairs well with anything from tacos to grilled fish. Quick to cook and easy to customize with extra seasonings or veggies. A fresh and easy alternative to regular rice.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Thin slices of potato layered in muffin tins with cream and cheese bake into perfectly portioned stacks. They get crispy on the edges and creamy in the center. These are great for individual servings and look impressive on the plate. Ideal for dinners where you want something a bit more polished.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread adds a sweet and crumbly texture to this traditional stuffing. Combined with onions, herbs, and broth, it bakes up golden and flavorful. Perfect for Thanksgiving, but easy enough to enjoy year-round. A nice switch from the classic white bread version.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Stuffing

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

This twist on traditional tabbouleh swaps out bulgur for cauliflower rice while keeping all the fresh herbs and lemon. It’s light, crisp, and perfect for a quick lunch or side dish. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a great meal prep option. Packed with freshness and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Pineapple Casserole

Sweet pineapple mixed with a buttery, cheesy topping might sound unusual—but it works. The combination of sweet and savory is what makes this dish a standout. It’s often served alongside ham or roast meats and adds something unexpected to the table. A quirky favorite that surprises in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

This quick method gives broccoli and cauliflower a nice roasted texture without turning on the oven. A little seasoning and a short cook time are all it takes. Great for a quick side or snack, and easy to adjust with spices or toppings. Crisp edges and tender centers make it a go-to.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Ultra-smooth and buttery, these whipped potatoes are light and fluffy without being too rich. A splash of cream and a little seasoning make them hard to resist. They pair well with just about any main course. A classic side made extra special with just a little extra care.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Yellow Squash Casserole

This cheesy bake features tender yellow squash with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s simple comfort food that’s great for using up summer squash. A creamy base keeps it moist, while the topping adds texture. Works well as a side or even a vegetarian main.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Corn Casserole

With just a few ingredients, this casserole turns canned corn into something warm and comforting. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and perfect alongside everything from barbecue to roast chicken. A favorite at potlucks and holidays for good reason. It’s reliable, easy, and always well-received.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Broccoli mixed with a creamy sauce and topped with buttery cracker crumbs makes this casserole a crowd favorite. The topping bakes up crisp, while the inside stays rich and cheesy. Great for weeknights or as a holiday side. A family-friendly way to serve more greens.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Mandarin Orange Salad

This retro-style salad features juicy mandarin oranges, crunchy greens, and a sweet, tangy dressing. Often finished with sliced almonds or crispy noodles, it’s full of texture and flavor. Refreshing and easy to throw together. A nice change of pace from heavier sides.
Get the Recipe: Mandarin Orange Salad