Easter is one of my favorite meals to host, but I’ll be honest- the oven fills up fast, and I’m not about to spend the whole holiday stressed out in the kitchen. That’s where my air fryer and a few smart pantry shortcuts come in to save the day. These are the side dishes I actually make when I want a beautiful Easter spread without the chaos.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your household, you need sides that are vibrant, delicious, and practical. I love recipes that don’t require a ton of peeling, chopping, or babysitting, and these ten deliver exactly that. From my air fryer baby potatoes (no peeling required!) to a surprisingly elegant take on canned asparagus, every recipe on this list is designed to make your Easter table look gorgeous while keeping things simple.
I hope these spring-inspired sides inspire you to enjoy the holiday with your guests instead of hiding in the kitchen!
Air Fryer Whole Baby Potatoes
Image Credit: Summer Yule
No peeling, no chopping- just toss these little potatoes in oil and seasoning and let the air fryer do the work. They come out deliciously tender inside, and they pair beautifully with whatever roast you’re serving. If you haven’t tried potatoes in the air fryer yet, Easter is the perfect time to start!
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Whole Baby Potatoes
Air Fryer Roasted Baby Carrots
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Roasting baby carrots in the air fryer brings out their natural sweetness and takes less time than the oven- no peeling or chopping required! They’re gluten-free, Paleo, Whole30, and vegan friendly, so they work for just about everyone at the table. A bag of baby carrots has never looked so good.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Baby Carrots
Fried Red Cabbage
Image Credit: Summer Yule
If you want a gorgeous pop of color next to your Easter ham, this is your dish. It cooks up with sweet onions, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and crispy bacon for a savory-sweet combo that always disappears fast. Don’t be surprised when guests ask for the recipe!
Get the recipe: Fried Red Cabbage
Boiled Radishes (Keto Potatoes)
Image Credit: Summer Yule
This one is a brilliant low-carb swap for new potatoes that I love serving alongside the Easter spread. Once radishes simmer in broth and get a quick pan-fry with garlic and butter, they turn mild and surprisingly potato-like. Your keto guests will be thrilled, and everyone else will be curious!
Get the recipe: Boiled Radishes
Air Fryer Frozen Vegetables
Image Credit: Summer Yule
When oven space is at a premium on Easter Sunday, this recipe is a total lifesaver. The air fryer transforms frozen broccoli and cauliflower into crispy-edged perfection in no time flat. It’s a healthy, easy side dish that holds its own at any holiday table.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Vegetables
Air Fried Canned Asparagus
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Canned asparagus can actually be delicious, you just need to know how to cook it right! The air fryer crisps up the tips and dries out any excess moisture, giving you a budget-friendly side dish that tastes anything but canned. No one should have to suffer through mushy asparagus, and with this method, they won’t!
Get the recipe: Canned Asparagus Recipe
Wildflower Chopped Salad
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Every Easter table needs a fresh, crisp element to balance out the heavier dishes, and this chopped salad delivers that perfectly. Packed with arugula, feta, and a bright pesto vinaigrette, it brings that light spring energy I always crave this time of year. It’s a beautiful, no-cook addition to the spread.
Get the recipe: Wildflower Chopped Salad
Keto Greek Salad
Image Credit: Summer Yule
This vibrant salad is one of my favorite ways to keep things light without sacrificing any flavor. Crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta create a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes on the Easter table. It’s a quick, no-fuss side that looks stunning on a platter.
Get the recipe: Keto Greek Salad
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Sweet, caramelized butternut squash isn’t just for fall- it’s a colorful and delicious addition to Easter dinner, too! The air fryer gives it perfectly golden edges in a fraction of the oven time, which I really appreciate when I’m juggling multiple dishes. It’s a simple side that looks and tastes impressive.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Canned Potatoes
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Canned potatoes are my secret weapon on busy holiday mornings, and once you try them pan-fried in butter and herbs until golden brown, you’ll understand why. They’re cheap, easy, and absolutely delicious, and no one ever guesses they came from a can. I hope this recipe inspires you to keep a few cans stocked in your pantry year-round!
Get the recipe: Canned Potato Recipe
Hello! I’m Summer, a registered dietitian and home chef who loves to cook, eat, and create recipes for you! Every recipe on this site has been tested by me to help ensure your success in the kitchen. All eaters are welcome here 🙂
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