When spring arrives, it’s time to start gathering Easter side dish recipes as you prepare for your big dinner. Most people focus on the main course: a large ham, a roast turkey, a sizzling duck. But the side dishes aren’t just filler for your plate. In fact, it’s the side dishes that can truly make your Easter dinner special. A good selection of Easter side dishes offers a variety of tastes, colors, and textures that complement the main dish, and contribute to the overall dining experience. Without the side dishes, your dinner would feel flat and one-note–and you’d find it impossible to cater to everyone’s tastes.

23 Delicious Side Dish Recipes for Your Easter Dinner

In other words, choosing the right side dishes is important. But as you browse through Easter side dish ideas on the Internet, you might start to feel a little overwhelmed. With so many options, how can you possibly make a selection? Here’s some advice on choosing the right dishes so you can make your next Easter dinner a memorable one.

Choose Dishes That are Light and Savory

If you’re preparing an Easter dinner, you’ll probably choose heavier dishes than you would for any other meal. But don’t forget that it’s still springtime, and hot, dense side dishes are better suited for autumn and winter. Choose lighter fare that’s more appropriate for spring, like deviled egg salad, roasted asparagus, or homemade coleslaw. You can include heavier dishes like baked potatoes and casseroles, but try to avoid anything too heavy and rich. If the weather is nice, your guests will probably want to enjoy the fresh air–and you don’t want to weigh them down with a heavy meal.

Include Dishes with Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Spring is a time of life and rebirth. The trees are budding, the plants are sprouting, and a fresh scent fills the air. If you want to incorporate the beauty of spring into your dinner, search for Easter side dish recipes that include fresh fruits and vegetables. These might include a fruit salad, avocado-stuffed eggs, roasted carrots, or creamy potatoes and peas. Some recipes suggest adding seeds, nuts, and cheeses for a fresh, earthy touch. These Easter side dishes help chase away the coldness of winter and get everyone ready for the bountiful season ahead.