Easter morning is often marked with the discovery of a basket filled with jelly beans and chocolate bunnies. When the time comes for the traditional Easter meal, introduce more-nutritious entrees and side dishes. Rack of lamb and ham are common main dishes for Easter dinner, and a variety of nutritious sides complement these foods.
Spring Vegetables With Dip
As spring warms the air and encourages flowers to make their first appearance, a variety of fresh vegetables become available at supermarkets and farmers markets. These nutritious vegetables make easy and healthy side dishes to accompany your Easter meal. Baby carrots and radishes are two fiber-packed options that add crunch and zip. Asparagus and green onions are fresh vegetables that pair well with dip. Make a dip using nonfat plain yogurt, fresh dill, minced onion, coarsely ground black pepper and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Deviled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are one of the food stars of the Easter holiday and supply protein to your meal. Start by slicing hard-boiled eggs in half and carefully removing the egg yolks into a medium-size bowl. Reserve the whites on a serving platter. Add 1/4 cup of reduced-fat mayonnaise. Substitute nonfat plain yogurt to make an even healthier side dish that supplies calcium and protein. Add a sprinkle of dried mustard and coarse black pepper. Shake in a dash of salt and paprika and gently mash until well combined. Spoon the yolks back into the egg whites and top them with a snip of fresh dill. Chill well before serving.
Cheesy Scalloped Potates
Potatoes are a healthy addition to your Easter celebration because they supply vitamin C, potassium and a small amount of fiber. Traditional scalloped potatoes usually include cream and several cups of cheese, which significantly increase the saturated fat content of the side dish. Using healthier ingredients allows you to still enjoy this side dish. Leave the skin on the potatoes as you slice them, to increase the nutrient content even more. Layer sliced potatoes in a large baking dish. Stir in two or three types of low-fat cheese, such as cheddar, Romano and provolone. Stir to combine. Scatter thinly sliced onion rings on top of the potatoes and sprinkle them with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until the potatoes are soft, about 45 minutes.
Minted Fruit Salad
Fresh fruit is another nutritious way to add vitamins and minerals to your Easter meal. Combine a variety of fresh fruits to create a colorful and nutrient-packed accompaniment, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas, grapes and oranges. Chop the fruits and toss them in a large bowl with freshly squeezed orange juice. Top the salad with fresh mint leaves and serve it chilled.
References
- "Easter Treats: Recipes and Crafts for the Whole Family"; Jill O'Connor; 2000
- "Saving Dinner for the Holidays"; Leanne Ely; 2005
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