35+ Flavorful Easter Low Calorie Side Dish Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Easter is the perfect occasion for gathering around the table with loved ones and celebrating the arrival of spring.

While the main courses often take the spotlight, it’s the side dishes that truly round out the meal and bring balance to the plate.

If you’re looking to create a lighter spread this Easter without sacrificing flavor, we’ve got you covered with over 35 fantastic low-calorie side dish recipes.

Whether you’re seeking fresh, vibrant vegetables or lightened-up versions of traditional favorites, these recipes offer the perfect combination of taste, nutrition, and seasonal flair.

From zesty salads to roasted veggie medleys, each dish is designed to enhance your Easter feast without overwhelming your calorie count.

35+ Flavorful Easter Low Calorie Side Dish Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Eating light doesn’t mean skimping on flavor, especially when it comes to these Easter side dishes.

These 35+ low-calorie recipes provide a refreshing twist on traditional favorites, ensuring that your holiday table is as satisfying as it is healthy.

Each recipe is packed with vibrant ingredients, offering nutrients and flavors that will complement your Easter main dishes beautifully.

So, whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet meal with family, these sides will help you celebrate the season in the best way possible—light, fresh, and delicious.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus

This refreshing and healthy side dish is a perfect addition to any Easter spread. Roasting asparagus with garlic, lemon, and a touch of olive oil brings out its natural sweetness, while keeping the calorie count low. Light yet flavorful, it complements any main dish and adds a vibrant green touch to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and slightly browned.
6. Once out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to complement any Easter entrée.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus is not only low in calories but also high in nutrients, making it an ideal Easter side dish. The lemon adds a zesty freshness, while the garlic offers a savory punch that enhances the asparagus’s natural flavor. This dish is quick, easy to prepare, and will surely impress your guests without compromising on health goals.

Cauliflower Rice with Herbs

A low-calorie alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice is a versatile side dish that can easily be infused with fresh herbs to create a fragrant and flavorful addition to your Easter table. It’s light, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal side for any Easter meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower and chop it into florets. Using a food processor, pulse the florets until the cauliflower resembles rice grains.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, fresh parsley, and basil. If desired, add lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness.
7. Serve warm as a light and flavorful side dish.

Cauliflower Rice with Herbs is a healthy, low-calorie alternative to traditional rice that fits perfectly into a lighter Easter menu. The combination of fresh herbs enhances the dish with aromatic flavors, while the cauliflower provides a nutritious, low-carb base. It’s an easy, gluten-free side dish that can be paired with a wide variety of mains.

Roasted Sweet Potato and Carrot Medley

This colorful and nutrient-packed side dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and carrots, roasted to perfection with olive oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s an ideal Easter side, offering a balanced mix of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, all while remaining low in calories.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes and sliced carrots with olive oil, cinnamon, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized, flipping the vegetables halfway through.
5. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve warm as a naturally sweet and savory side dish for your Easter celebration.

Roasted Sweet Potato and Carrot Medley is a delightful low-calorie side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. The cinnamon adds a warming spice, while the thyme provides an earthy balance. This dish is not only healthy but also visually appealing, with its vibrant colors and crispy texture. It’s a simple yet elegant side that will be a hit at your Easter gathering.

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles

This low-calorie side dish is a fantastic alternative to pasta, especially for those watching their carb intake. The zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are lightly sautéed with garlic and Parmesan for a flavorful yet healthy option that pairs wonderfully with any Easter main course. It’s a refreshing, guilt-free dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Using a spiralizer, create noodles from the zucchinis. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can also use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until tender but still slightly firm.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and toss in grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles are a light and satisfying side that provides the same texture as pasta but with far fewer calories. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the Parmesan gives it a rich, cheesy flavor. This dish is perfect for a healthy Easter spread and offers a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal without sacrificing taste.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Dressing

This crisp, refreshing salad is a perfect low-calorie side dish for your Easter celebration. With the brightness of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes, paired with a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Packed with hydration and vitamins, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a light, refreshing dish that brightens up any Easter meal. The crispness of the cucumbers and the juiciness of the tomatoes create a perfect contrast, while the balsamic dressing adds a tangy sweetness. It’s a great way to balance out richer dishes while keeping things light and healthy, making it a go-to low-calorie side for any festive occasion.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect side dish that’s both nutritious and low in calories. This version is enhanced with a balsamic glaze that adds a touch of sweetness to the natural bitterness of the sprouts, creating a beautifully balanced flavor. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to your Easter spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden and crispy on the edges, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking.
4. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, heat balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens into a glaze.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and garnish with fresh thyme.
6. Serve warm.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are a perfect balance of savory and sweet, offering a deliciously low-calorie side that enhances your Easter meal. The crispy edges of the Brussels sprouts combined with the tangy-sweet glaze create a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. This easy-to-make side dish is not only healthy but also a delightful way to enjoy one of spring’s best vegetables.

Avocado and Mango Salad

A vibrant and refreshing side dish that combines creamy avocado with the sweetness of mango, this salad is a perfect low-calorie option for your Easter meal. Tossed with a light citrus dressing, it provides a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will brighten up your celebration without adding many calories.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and cubed
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the cubed avocados, diced mango, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the avocado and mango mixture, then toss carefully to coat without mashing the avocado.
4. Serve immediately as a fresh and tropical side dish to complement your Easter main course.

Avocado and Mango Salad is a naturally sweet and creamy side dish that’s low in calories but bursting with flavor. The rich texture of avocado pairs perfectly with the juicy sweetness of mango, while the cilantro and lime dressing adds a refreshing touch. It’s a light, colorful, and nutrient-packed addition to your Easter meal, sure to impress guests with its vibrant flavors.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage

Roasted butternut squash is a low-calorie, flavorful side that’s perfect for an Easter feast. When paired with fresh sage, it takes on a fragrant, earthy quality that enhances its natural sweetness. This simple dish is easy to prepare and brings a comforting warmth to your Easter table.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6-8 fresh sage leaves
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and golden.
4. During the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the fresh sage leaves to the pan to infuse their flavor.
5. Optional: Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for added sweetness.
6. Serve warm as a sweet and savory side dish.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage offers a delightful balance of sweetness and savory depth, making it an excellent low-calorie option for Easter. The cinnamon and sage bring out the squash’s natural flavors, while the optional maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness without overloading on calories. This dish is easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and makes a colorful addition to your Easter spread.

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are a crunchy, satisfying, and low-calorie side dish that provides a unique twist for your Easter meal. Packed with fiber and protein, these roasted chickpeas are seasoned with a mix of spices for a bold flavor that contrasts wonderfully with lighter main courses. They’re perfect for snacking or serving alongside your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
4. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking, until the chickpeas are crispy and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are a crunchy, flavorful, and low-calorie side that packs a punch. The combination of spices adds heat and depth, while the chickpeas themselves provide a satisfying texture. They’re a fun, healthy alternative to chips or fried snacks and make a great addition to your Easter meal, adding both flavor and nutrition to your plate.

Cauliflower Rice Pilaf

Cauliflower Rice Pilaf is a fantastic low-calorie, grain-free alternative to traditional rice pilaf. This dish is light, yet full of flavor thanks to a blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and a variety of colorful vegetables. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any Easter main dish and a wonderful way to enjoy the texture and taste of rice while keeping the calorie count low.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces (or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cauliflower rice, peas, and turmeric, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cauliflower Rice Pilaf is an excellent low-calorie side that mimics the texture of traditional rice but with a fraction of the calories. The colorful vegetables add not only a variety of textures but also a wealth of nutrients. The dish is light and fluffy, and the turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor. It’s a healthy, flavorful choice for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake while still enjoying a hearty, satisfying side at Easter.

Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad

Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad is a cool, creamy, and refreshing low-calorie side dish that’s perfect for spring celebrations like Easter. The tanginess of the Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with the crisp cucumbers and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s a great way to balance richer main dishes and add a healthy element to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with Greek yogurt, olive oil, dill, and lemon juice.
2. Toss the salad to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.

Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad is a light, refreshing side that’s both creamy and crunchy. The tangy yogurt dressing brings a fresh flavor to the cool cucumbers, while the dill and lemon juice provide a bright, zesty finish. This low-calorie dish is a great way to lighten up your Easter meal while still offering a satisfying, flavorful side.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic is a simple, healthy, and low-calorie side that enhances the natural flavors of asparagus. The asparagus is roasted to perfection, bringing out its earthy sweetness, while the lemon and garlic add a burst of brightness and savory depth. It’s an elegant addition to your Easter spread that is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy at the tips.
4. Once roasted, drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic is a light yet flavorful side that’s perfect for any Easter meal. The garlic provides a savory base, while the lemon adds a refreshing, tangy note that brightens up the asparagus. It’s an easy-to-make, low-calorie dish that’s full of nutrients and flavor, offering a delicious way to enjoy this spring vegetable.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a low-calorie, gluten-free alternative to pasta that is light, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The fresh zucchini noodles serve as a perfect base for a rich, fragrant pesto sauce made with basil, garlic, and olive oil. This dish is ideal for Easter, offering a refreshing and satisfying side dish that’s also full of nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until they are evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a fantastic, low-calorie dish that’s perfect for Easter. The pesto sauce adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the light, crisp zucchini noodles. This dish is not only a great low-carb alternative but also a vibrant and nutritious side that complements any Easter spread.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates Brussels sprouts to new heights. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to crispy perfection, while the balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. This low-calorie side dish is a great addition to your Easter table, offering a balance of savory and sweet that will satisfy all guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy on the edges and tender inside.
4. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (if using) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a glaze.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a delicious and low-calorie side that brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the crispy roasted sprouts. This dish is simple to make and packed with flavor, making it an ideal addition to your Easter meal.

Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a refreshing, crunchy side dish that is both light and full of flavor. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots, and dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, this slaw is a healthy, low-calorie alternative to heavier salads or creamy slaws. It’s an excellent option for Easter, adding a colorful, nutritious, and satisfying side to your plate.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss to combine.
4. Let the slaw sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a light and vibrant side dish that adds a burst of color and crunch to your Easter meal. The tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the freshness of the cabbage and carrots, creating a healthy, satisfying dish. This low-calorie slaw is an excellent way to bring some crunch and tang to your table while keeping things light and refreshing.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!