75 Best Comfort Food Recipes - Comfort Food Dinner Ideas

Our Top 100 Easter Side Dishes Are Here To Round Out The Feast

100 Side Dishes to Round Out Your Easter FeastStacy Allen

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It doesn't matter if you're serving ham, quiche, or lamb chops—the Easter side dishes are just as important as the main event. That's especially true in the springtime when you can highlight all the glorious garden-fresh veggies. (We could never have too many asparagus recipes!) Of course, we wouldn't be able to have a roundup without bread basket ideas, hearty potatoes, and plenty of Southern comfort foods either. But you'll also find tons of recipes inspired by a Drummond family Easter feast. After all, as Ree Drummond says, "You can never have too many sides!"

If you're looking for traditional Easter recipes, you'll love the scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and Ree Drummond's pea salad that she remembers eating as a kid. But there are also some fresh spring recipes and creative side dishes worth trying, too! Check out the air fryer asparagus, spinach-feta buns, BLT pasta salad for a fun twist. Whether you need a side dish for your Easter dinner menu or brunch menu, these easy recipes will add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your holiday feast. Just be sure to save some room for those scrumptious Easter desserts.

Slow Cooker Green Beans

Save yourself some time and oven space by using your slow cooker to make a few Easter sides! Here, the handy kitchen appliance will make green beans perfectly tender with tomatoes and smoky bacon.

Get the Slow Cooker Green Beans recipe.

SHOP SLOW COOKERS

Caitlin Bensel

Couscous Salad

Fluffy couscous makes the perfect base for this potluck-friendly salad! The colorful cherry tomatoes, fresh cucumbers, and pop of pomegranate seeds make it all the more enticing.

Get the Couscous Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Buttermilk Ranch Angel Biscuits

These biscuits are herby and light, which makes them perfect for springtime! Plus, they have a pretty parsley leaf decoration that makes them look impressive without a ton of effort.

Get the Buttermilk Ranch Angel Biscuits recipe.

Will Dickey

Tuna Pasta Salad

Just like a tuna noodle casserole, this recipe is loaded with albacore tuna, green peas, and even potato chips. But the lightened-up version is made in the form of a pasta salad rather than a baked dish.

Get the Tuna Pasta Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Upside-Down Puff Pastry Radish Tarts

Colorful spring radishes are the center of attention thanks to these pretty puff pastry tarts. But making them is easier than you might think!

Get the Upside-Down Puff Pastry Radish Tarts recipe.

SHOP SERVING PLATES

Stacy Allen

Collard Greens

This recipe for collard greens uses tender, meaty smoked turkey legs, but you can also uses smoked ham hocks if you prefer. Either way, they're a delicious taste of the South, especially when you have a basket of cornbread to serve it with!

Get the Collard Greens recipe.

Stacy Allen

Egg Salad

Every bunny in the family will be happy with eggs on Easter! This creamy egg salad has fun mix-ins like chopped dill pickles, red onion, fresh chives, and dill.

Get the Egg Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Air Fryer Snap Peas

Come springtime, we love sugar snap peas any which way. But if you've never tried making them in your air fryer before, you're in for a treat! They get extra crisp and flavorful thanks to fresh oregano and grated parmesan cheese.

Get Ree's Air Fryer Snap Peas recipe.

Ralph Smith

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This side dish is loaded with creamy potatoes, sour cream, pickles, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and bacon. If that doesn't convince you to make it, we don't know what will!

Get the Loaded Baked Potato Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad

This homemade Caesar dressing gets a spicy twist from the addition of jalapeño peppers. Add homemade cornbread croutons and you'll have a new way of serving up salad to a crowd.

Get Ree's Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad recipe.

SHOP BLENDERS

Ralph Smith

Ranch Potatoes

Crispy potatoes are always delicious, but ranch seasoning and they'll become a new family favorite! You can even serve them up over buttermilk ranch dressing.

Get the Ranch Potatoes recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Give your tender asparagus spears texture and flavor by wrapping them up in slices of prosciutto. It's similar to bacon, but will feel even more elegant for the holidays.

Get the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Chickpea Salad

Pop open a can of chickpeas and chop up some fresh veggies to make this crowd-pleasing salad. You can make it ahead of time similar to any marinated bean salad, but just be sure to keep the avocado and basil on the side until you're ready to serve.

Get the Chickpea Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Easter candy is great, but candied sweet potatoes are even better! Trust us, you'll want a second serving of these sweet and comforting delights!

Get the Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Chicken Pasta Salad

Chicken salad meets pasta salad in this fun side dish mash-up. It's loaded with sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and lots of fresh herbs.

Get the Chicken Pasta Salad recipe.

SHOP BOWLS

Caitlin Bensel

Grilled Asparagus

Looking to take your Easter meal outdoors? Try making everyone's favorite spring veggie right on the grill! It adds a unique charred element you never knew you needed.

Get the Grilled Asparagus recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

It doesn't get easier than this creamy pasta salad. The simple mix-ins include shredded carrot, crunchy celery, and onion, but you can also add chopped hard boiled eggs or pickles if that's your thing!

Get the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Perfect Potatoes au Gratin

There's a reason why Ree calls this side dish "perfect!" It's creamy, comforting, and delicious alongside just about any main course (ham included!).

Get Ree's Perfect Potatoes au Gratin recipe.

Danielle Daly

Green Bean Salad

You only need 20 minutes to make this colorful salad loaded with crisp green beans, salty olives, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese! Even the French-style vinaigrette is shaken up in a mason jar to make it even easier.

Get the Green Bean Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Jalapeño Cornbread

If you like your foods with a spicy kick, try adding sliced jalapeños to a classic skillet cornbread. You'll wonder why you've never done it before!

Get Ree's Jalapeño Cornbread recipe.

SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

David Malosh

Red Potato Salad

Small red potatoes are boiled until creamy, then tossed with an herby dressing and crispy bacon pieces for this classic side dish.

Get the Red Potato Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Asparagus Pasta

Fettuccine and asparagus are the stars of this springy pasta recipe. It can work as either a hearty side or even another main course along with your holiday ham.

Get the Asparagus Pasta recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Roasted Cauliflower

This dish is simple, but that's what makes it so great! We've got an easy method for making roasted cauliflower perfect every time.

Get the Roasted Cauliflower recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Jalapeño-Cheddar Scones

Whether you serve them for brunch, lunch, or dinner, these cheesy scones are a fun side for your table. Just note that they have a bit of a kick from the jalapeño!

Get Ree's Jalapeño-Cheddar Scones recipe.

Ryan Dausch

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

The combination of bacon, ranch, and pasta makes this a winning recipe all around! Your friends and family will thank you!

Get the Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad recipe.

SHOP COOKWARE

Caitlin Bensel

Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy, comforting, elegant, and all made in your slow cooker! This potato recipe is basically the perfect dish.

Get the Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Maple-Glazed Carrots

Butter, maple syrup, and fresh thyme give this simple side dish a ton of flavor. Plus, the shallots get tender and caramelized in the oven!

Get Ree's Maple-Glazed Carrots recipe.

Ryan Liebe

Strawberry Arugula Salad

Nothing says springtime quite like a fresh arugula salad with sweet berries. The toasted pecans and salty feta are an added bonus!

Get the Strawberry Arugula Salad recipe.

David Malosh

Deviled Eggs

You can't go wrong with deviled eggs on Easter. Whether you serve them up for brunch, lunch, or even dinner. This classic recipe will take you far!

Get the Deviled Eggs recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Spinach Casserole

A make-ahead casserole recipe (like this spinach version) is great for when you have a big menu to plan. You can prep the spinach filling and refrigerate the night before, then top with the crispy onions just before baking.

Get the Spinach Casserole recipe.

SHOP CASSEROLE DISHES

Caitlin Bensel

Watercress Salad

Watercress isn't your average leafy green. It's bright, peppery, and delicious come springtime! It also pairs well with the crunchy radish and fennel in this salad.

Get Ree's Watercress Salad recipe.

Ryan Liebe

Ciabatta

Easter is a special occasion so it's worthy of a special bread! Give this homemade ciabatta loaf a try, then serve it up with thick slices of ham.

Get the Ciabatta recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Cajun Green Bean Casserole

Give this classic holiday side a fire-y kick by adding flavorful Cajun seasoning and hot sauce! It's great for a family who isn't afraid of a little spice.

Get Ree's Cajun Green Bean Casserole recipe.

David Malosh

Italian Pasta Salad

This is just the way we like our pasta salads to be... With plenty of hearty mix-ins! Mozzarella pearls, diced salami, olives, and veggies, to name a few.

Get the Italian Pasta Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Fried Cabbage

Fried cabbage isn't just for St. Paddy's Day! You can keep this popular, bacon-infused dish going through Easter, too.

Get the Fried Cabbage recipe.

SHOP SERVING BOWLS

Caitlin Bensel

Air Fryer Asparagus

Give your oven (or stovetop) a break this Easter and make asparagus in your air fryer instead! It comes out extra-crispy every time.

Get the Air Fryer Asparagus recipe.

David Malosh

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

This classic potluck recipe will be a hit with everyone at your Easter table, especially if they're a fan of pickles and cheese! Oh, and pasta!

Get the Dill Pickle Pasta Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Sweet Potato Hash

If a potato hash is popular in your household, consider this twist made with sweet potatoes instead! They're bright and colorful with a natural sweetness and smoky flavor thanks to the bacon.

Get the Sweet Potato Hash recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Succotash

The combination of lima beans and fresh veggies makes this Southern staple hearty enough for a Vegetarian Easter dinner menu. Just be sure to swap the chicken stock for veggie stock if you prefer.

Get the Succotash recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Buttermilk Biscuits

Whether you're serving brunch or dinner, these homemade biscuits are always a hit. If you want to add some sweetness, serve them up with butter and a drizzle of honey.

Get the Buttermilk Biscuits recipe.

SHOP PASTRY BLENDERS

Will Dickey

Greek Lemon Potatoes

You don't need to be serving lamb to make this classic Greek dish. However, they do happen to taste delicious alongside a big holiday roast or even lamb burgers!

Get the Greek Lemon Potatoes recipe.

David Malosh

Creamed Peas

Creamed peas are an old-school favorite for a reason! They're comforting, quick, and topped with as many crispy fried onions as your heart desires.

Get the Creamed Peas recipe.

Ralph Smith

Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

If you've never worked with phyllo dough, don't fear! This recipe shows just how easy it is and just how delicious it can be in a homemade spinach pie.

Get the Spanakopita recipe.

Will Dickey

Cucumber Salad

Crisp, cool cucumbers are the star of this simple salad. Look for English or Persian cucumbers which have thinner, more tender skin.

Get the Cucumber Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese

Talk about comfort food! This mac and cheese is creamier than ever thanks to the help of your Crock-Pot! Not to mention, plenty of melted cheese.

Get Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese recipe.

SHOP SLOW COOKERS

Caitlin Bensel

Grilled Potatoes

Placing the red baby potatoes onto wooden skewers helps to keep them from rolling around the grill. And it makes for a cute presentation.

Get the Grilled Potatoes recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes

Take creamy mashed potatoes to a whole new level with this spicy, cheesy variation. The kick comes from cayenne pepper, chili powder, and pepper jack cheese.

Get Ree's Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes recipe.

David Malosh

Air Fryer Green Beans

Having a few simple sides on your holiday menu will help keep the day a bit easier. Try this recipe for green beans that only takes 15 minutes to make.

Get the Air Fryer Green Beans recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Broccoli Salad

This crunchy salad is loaded with tasty mix-ins like dried cranberries, shredded cheese, and bacon. It gives sweet, smoky, and savory flavor that everyone will love.

Get the Broccoli Salad recipe.

Caitlin Bensel

Potato Galette

This is one of the most impressive ways to serve hash browns at your Easter brunch. Cut it into wedges so everyone get a slice of the crunchy goodness.

Get the Potato Galette recipe.

SHOP SKILLETS

Caitlin Bensel

Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad is so simple and fresh, plus it only takes ten minutes to make! Add the citrusy lemon-poppy seed dressing for extra bright flavor.

Get the Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

You can't go wrong with a comforting casserole dish—especially when it involved mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon!

Get the Twice-Baked Potato Casserole recipe.

Hector Manuel Sanchez

Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas

These seasonal sugar snap peas don't need much to make them shine. Just a quick sauté and a simple butter lemon sauce. Add some fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Get the Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas recipe.

Will Dickey

Carrot Salad

The combination of carrots, apples, and raisins will make your heart sing! It's perfect for lunch, brunch, or Easter dinner.

Get the Carrot Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Your oven and stovetop are working double-time on the holidays so you'll be pleased to know that this easy sweet potato side dish is made in an air fryer!

Get the Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries recipe.

SHOP AIR FRYERS

Will Dickey

Popovers

Not only can you make these easy popovers in a muffin tin, but you don't have to worry about rising, rolling, or anything time-consuming. It's great for novice bakers!

Get the Popovers recipe.

Will Dickey

Carrot Tart

This gorgeous side dish looks elegant but it's surprisingly easy to make. The trick is using thawed puff pastry and a package of store-bought garlic and herb spreadable cheese.

Get the Carrot Tart recipe.

Will Dickey

Greek Pasta Salad

Whether you're having an Easter picnic outdoors or a holiday feast at the dining room table, this pasta salad is a welcome addition. It's loaded with fun mix-ins and great for making ahead.

Get the Greek Pasta Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Sautéed Asparagus

There are so many ways to enjoy seasonal asparagus, but sometimes simple is best. Just before serving, finish the asparagus with lemon juice and parmesan cheese for just the right amount of flavor.

Get the Sautéed Asparagus recipe.

Will Dickey

Skillet Cornbread

This foolproof cornbread is made in a cast iron skillet so it has those crispy edges you know and love.

Get Ree's Skillet Cornbread recipe.

SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

Ryan Liebe

Colcannon

This traditional Irish side dish combines creamy mashed potatoes and leafy greens, It also has green onions, garlic, and lots of buttah!

Get the Colcannon recipe.

Will Dicky

Roasted Vegetables with Pecan Crumble

Transform your roasted vegetables by topping them with a sweet and smoky pecan crumble. It's perfect for a Southern-inspired holiday menu.

Get Ree's Roasted Vegetables with Pecan Crumble recipe.

Ralph Smith

Twice-Baked Potatoes

There's nothing fussy about this classic potato recipe, but that's precisely why it's so great!

Get Ree's Twice-Baked Potatoes recipe.

Danielle Daly

Cheesy Asparagus Tart

With seasonal asparagus, leeks, and two types of cheese, this stunning tart is sure to be a hit. And it may even take the spotlight from your main course!

Get Ree's Cheesy Asparagus Tart recipe.

con poulos

Cheddar and Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

To make these creamy mashed potatoes even better, they're loaded with lots of cheese. Use any cheese that melts easily like cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or fontina.

Get Ree's Cheddar and Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes recipe.

SHOP POTATO MASHERS

Ralph Smith

Candied Carrots

With a candied brown sugar glaze, these sweet carrots are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Even the Easter bunny would approve!

Get Ree's Candied Carrots recipe.

David Malosh

Baked Gnocchi Alfredo

Creamy, cheesy, and slightly more elegant than your typical mac and cheese—this casserole recipe is perfect for a special Easter dinner.

Get the Baked Gnocchi Alfredo recipe.

Hector Manuel Sanchez

BLT Pasta Salad

Not only is this pasta salad loaded with flavor, but it comes together in just 25 minutes! We couldn't think of a more perfect side dish.

Get the BLT Pasta Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Spinach-Feta Buns

For a fun (and savory) twist on sweet buns, fill these rolls with spinach and feta. It's a tasty choice for Easter brunch.

Get Ree's Spinach-Feta Buns recipe.

Beatriz da Costa

Cauliflower Gratin

Looking to lighten things up for spring? While this cauliflower gratin still has plenty of creamy cheese sauce, it swaps out starchy potatoes in favor of cauliflower.

Get Ree's Cauliflower Gratin recipe.

SHOP SERVING PLATES

Ralph Smith

Creamy Pasta Primavera

This pasta recipe is both comforting and fresh all at the same time. Load it up with spring produce like asparagus, snap peas, parsley, and mint.

Get Ree's Creamy Pasta Primavera recipe.

con poulos

Slice-Baked Potatoes

These potato rounds are delicious no matter how you slice it. (See what we did there?) But they really are that good!

Get Ree's Slice-Baked Potatoes recipe.

Danielle Daly

Classic Three-Bean Salad

This colorful salad uses a combination of fresh and canned beans, so it's full of flavor and texture while still being easy to toss together.

Get the Classic Three-Bean Salad recipe.

Will Dickey

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Get creative with your baked sweet potatoes: add a touch of honey for a sweet twist or go all-out savory with sour cream and bacon. Either way, you can't go wrong!

Get the Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe.

Will Dickey

Air Fryer Potatoes

Your oven will likely be doing double time during the holidays, so when it comes to making Easter sides, put your air fryer to work instead! It'll make the crispiest potatoes.

Get the Air Fryer Potatoes recipe.

SHOP AIR FRYERS

Will Dickey

Broccoli Wild Rice Casserole

This casserole dish isn't just for Thanksgiving. It also makes a hearty addition to your Easter dinner table. In fact, Ree would eat it at any meal of the day, if she could.

Get Ree's Broccoli Wild Rice Casserole recipe.

Hector Manuel Sanchez

Duchess Potatoes

These pretty dollops of mashed potato might look fancy, but they're surprisingly easy to make. Try them for a special occasion like Easter dinner!

Get Ree's Duchess Potatoes recipe.

Danielle Daly

Greek Salad

Loaded salads are the best kind of salads. And this Greek salad is no exception—it has crunchy veggies, olives, red onion, and feta.

Get Ree's Greek Salad recipe.

Danielle Daly

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

It doesn't get more comforting than this creamy casserole dish—it's one of the Drummond kids' favorites! The key is to slice the potatoes extra thin—use a mandoline (carefully) if you have one or invest in a sharp knife.

Get Ree's Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe.

Ralph Smith

Skillet Biscuits with Cinnamon-Honey Butter

Use a cast iron skillet to give these biscuits a beautiful crust, then serve them right in the pan for easy clean-up. The cinnamon-honey butter makes them perfect for Easter brunch.

Get Ree's Skillet Biscuits with Cinnamon-Honey Butter recipe.

SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

Ralph Smith

Pea Salad

Ree Drummond always enjoyed this simple salad as a kid on Easter—and she still loves it every bit as much today. You can toss everything together in the morning, then serve it up whenever guests arrive.

Get Ree's Pea Salad recipe.

Ralph Smith

Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips

The combination of honey and butter gives these root vegetables a sweet glaze, while the fresh thyme adds a bit of savory goodness. It's an impressive and tasty side dish.

Get Ree's Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips recipe.

con poulos

Baked Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Shallots

Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect in their own right, but there's something about the addition of crispy shallots that gives these spuds an extra special touch. They're decadent, fancy, and family-friendly all at the same time!

Get Ree's Baked Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Shallots recipe.

con poulos

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a tried-and-true side for any holiday meal. You can use all cheddar cheese or switch it up and try a combination of cheddar, jack, and fontina.

Get Ree's Mac and Cheese recipe.

Ralph Smith

Skillet Dinner Rolls with Garlic-Herb Butter

There's nothing quite like fresh baked dinner rolls right out of the oven. The best part about this recipe is there's no kneading required! Brush them with melted garlic-herb butter and watch them get devoured.

Get Ree's Skillet Dinner Rolls with Garlic-Herb Butter recipe.

SHOP MEASURING CUPS

Ralph Smith

Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a tradition on Thanksgiving, but this twist on the classic is perfect for Easter. It features creamy cheddar cheese, pimentos, and crisp bits of bacon.

Get Ree's Green Bean Casserole recipe.

Ralph Smith

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Looking to save time cooking and cleaning? Make these buttery mashed potatoes right in your Instant Pot. It's the holiday time-saver we never knew we needed.

Get Ree's Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe.

Ralph Smith

Ravioli Primavera

Serve this pesto pasta as a vegetarian main course or as a side dish alongside ham. Either way, it's perfect for spring!

Get Ree's Ravioli Primavera recipe.

SHOP STOCK POTS

Ryan Dausch

Potato Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette

Looking for an accompaniment for Easter lunch? This potato salad is a must! It's herby, tangy, and sure to become your favorite potluck recipe.

Get Ree's Potato Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette recipe.

con poulos

Arugula and Three-Pea Salad

Not one, not two, but three types of peas can be found in this springy salad. It's a fresh, green addition to any holiday table.

Get Ree's Arugula and Three-Pea Salad recipe.

SHOP DINNERWARE

Beatriz da Costa

Whipped Deviled Eggs with Dill

The Drummond family always has deviled eggs on Easter. Whether you serve these as an appetizer or side, they're the perfect accompaniment for your holiday table.

Get Ree's Whipped Deviled Eggs with Dill recipe.

con poulos

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Homemade lemon salt is the secret to this zesty side dish. Simply let your fresh grated lemon zest air-dry, then mix it together with kosher salt for a flavorful seasoning blend.

Get Ree's Lemon Roasted Asparagus recipe.

con poulos

Spring Salad with Radishes

Ree's Aunt Trish came up with the dressing for this salad and we could put it on just about anything. The combination of parmesan, paprika, and garlic is so flavorful.

Get Ree's Spring Salad with Radishes recipe.

con poulos

Bacon-Cheddar Skillet Cornbread

A cast iron skillet gives this flavor-packed cornbread the crispy edges we love. Cook the bacon right in the skillet, then use the same pan to make the cornbread.

Get Ree's Bacon-Cheddar Skillet Cornbread recipe.

Ralph Smith

Rosemary Hasselback Potatoes

This method for roasting potatoes ensures flavor in every bite. The small slits allow the spuds to soak up all the buttery, herby flavors.

Get Ree's Rosemary Hasselback Potatoes recipe.

SHOP BAKING SHEETS

Ryan Liebe

Creamy Potatoes with Chives

Slice the potatoes with a mandoline or as thinly as possible—this will help them soften for that melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Just be careful when using a mandoline—it's super sharp!

Get Ree's Creamy Potatoes with Chives recipe.

con poulos

Pepper-Parmesan Biscuits

Impress all your guests with these not-so-average biscuits—they're savory, peppery, and perfect for Easter brunch.

Get Ree's Pepper-Parmesan Biscuits recipe.

Ryan Liebe

Roasted Carrots with Spring Pesto

Swap out regular pesto for this spring-inspired version that's made with fresh mint, parsley, and toasted almonds.

Get Ree's Roasted Carrots with Spring Pesto recipe.

Beatriz da Costa

Roasted Asparagus with Cajun Hollandaise

Hollandaise can be an intimidating sauce to make, but this foolproof version is made right in a blender for easy prep work (no whisking required).

Get Ree's Roasted Asparagus with Cajun Hollandaise recipe.

con poulos

Layered Salad

This make-ahead salad can easily be customized with your favorite veggies, but you won't want to miss the layer of hard boiled eggs and bacon. It's truly magnificent!

Get Ree's Layered Salad recipe.

SHOP SALAD BOWLS

Ralph Smith

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Houghton And Beyond: 26 Local Bars And Restaurants On Tucson's Far-east Side

Editor's note: This story was originally published in 2022 and updated in 2024.

My mom tells me stories of spending her high school years getting bussed an hour and a half each way, from her home in a small housing development past Forty Niner Country Club, where Tanque Verde Road turns into Redington Pass, to Rincon High School, where she was districted.

She tells me about how the weather is wildest when it blows in from the east over the Rincon Mountains, how she would be kept up at night with the sounds of lightning and crazy monsoon winds.

The far-east side of Tucson has grown a lot since those days, when her neighbors would uniformly wear cowboy boots and many had acreage to back up their outfits. Now there are big developments anchoring that part of town, like Rita Ranch, and Tucson has pushed its metro borders out farther than my mom ever expected, reaching Marana and Vail.

So a lot of Tucsonans live in areas past Houghton Road now, and want to know where to eat. Truthfully, I had no idea — I live in midtown and the 30-minute drive to the far-east side poses a threat to my understanding of the area. But I wanted to learn, so I asked the experts at the Take-Out in Tucson Facebook group, and thoroughly assessed Google Maps photos and Yelp reviews before making a short list of places to check out in person.

I found a handful of gems, places I can't find even in midtown, alongside a huge index of neighborhood staples, from carnicerias to a local Buffalo wings joint.

Pictured is Taco Stop's vegan birria burrito.

Ellice Lueders Taco Stop on Speedway and Houghton

I first tried this place when driving home from a hike in Agua Caliente with my boyfriend at the time. He was a strict vegetarian and we were both starving, miles from home. The sun had long set over the valley when we pulled up to what felt like the first stoplight in forever, at North Houghton Road and East Speedway. He pulled into the Circle K parking lot with confidence I lacked that he would find a vegetarian option. I couldn't have been more wrong.

Taco Stop has since made a name for itself on social media, connecting with vegan foodies like Hannah Hernandez. While we might have settled for a simple bean burrito, Taco Stop goes above the call of duty with some of the best vegan and vegetarian options in town. The crown jewel of their menu is a flavorful jackfruit birria, which adds spice, tang and substance to their tacos, burritos and quesabirria.

But their humbler — and much cheaper — bean burrito is delicious as well, loaded with all the fixins and especially tasty when topped with their spicy salsa verde and a squeeze of freshly-sliced lime. While the vegan birria is an event worth a trip from midtown, the bean burrito and non-vegetarian options would be lazy-day favorites if I lived in the area.

Location: 10290 E. Speedway

For more information, check out their website.

The Drunken Noodle meal, pan fried noodles, with special roasted chili sauce, jalapeño and Thai basil, from Sa-ing Thai Cuisine.

Kelly Presnell, Arizona Daily Star Sa-Ing Thai at Valencia and Nexus

Tucson is not known for its bounty of Thai restaurants. You probably have your neighborhood favorite, where you get your standard, inevitably tasty, Pad Thai and rarely deviate from what you know you like. When Tuk Tuk Thai came to town with their Khao Soi chicken, Tucson got to experience regional Thai street food.

I love Tuk Tuk, and yet Sa-Ing Thai offers something different: a little less flashy, just as reliably delicious. Users on various review platforms rave about Sa-Ing's exceptional quality. I'd say that if you love Thai food, you should make the trip to try Sa-Ing to evaluate the restaurant for yourself. If you live in the area, it could become a part of your regular rotation.

I haven't been able to try everything on the menu, but when I followed the proprietor's recommendation and ordered the Drunken Noodle for takeout, I was delighted at how well the punchy, multifaceted, tangy-savory-sweet-spicy flavor came through, even after a misadventurous drive home that took over an hour and a half.

It wasn't as spicy as I've had in the past, but I also didn't make any particular request. I loved their Thai tea as well, which tasted strongly of ceylon and wasn't as sweet as I've had elsewhere (while still sweet enough, you know?).

I'm excited to return to the area, to sample from competitor Luckie's, and to try more from Sa-Ing's sizeable menu — starting with the other dish the guy behind the counter recommended, their green curry.

Location: 9136 E. Valencia Road

For more information, check out their website.

Salima's Central Asian Bakery at Rincon Valley Farmers Market

This is the find that you couldn't find on your own, without trekking out to the Udall Park or Rincon Valley farmers markets. The family who runs the Salima's food stand is from Uzbekistan and they bring to Tucson the really special foods that were innovated at the intersection of Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Everything they make is good.

I took home both their pillowy flatbread, decorated with a quilted pattern and sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds, along with a stuffed flatbread that tasted like gozleme made with flaky layers of laminated dough. Reheated to a chewy crisp in the toaster oven after nearly an hour's drive home, it was downright heavenly.

Salima's is available at the Rincon Valley Farmers Market:

Location: 12500 E. Old Spanish Trail Road

For more information, check out their website.

(Salima's is also at the Udall Park Farmers Market.)

Server Chloe Tribolet takes orders as the sky darkens over the patio at Saguaro Corners, 3750 S. Old Spanish Trail.

Kelly Presnell, Arizona Daily Star Saguaro Corners at Old Spanish Trail and Escalante

When I asked people on Take-Out in Tucson where their favorite far-east side restaurant is, Saguaro Corners became the clear favorite. It's easy to understand why: the location amid the undeveloped east-side desert is as serene and untouched as Tohono Chul's bistro, and the food is remarkably good.

I was once visiting a family friend on the far-east side of town with my uncle who was visiting from LA, and the friend recommended Saguaro Corners. When I read their menu, I didn't quite understand the menu's mix of bar food and bistro fare. I didn't know what to expect. I ordered the Southwest chicken corn chowder, which was delicious, but what I can't stop thinking about is the pan-seared salmon my health-conscious uncle ordered. It was incredible.

Saguaro Corners makes it with asparagus, which my uncle doesn't care for, and I got to try it in the lemon-caper-butter sauce. It was some of the best asparagus I've had in my life, perfectly tender without being mushy, and with a healthy dousing of the tangy sauce, which is a classic accompaniment for a reason.

Location: 3750 S. Old Spanish Trail

For more information, check out their website.

Other restaurants to check out on Tucson's far-east side — near or east of Houghton Road

Argenziano's

Red sauce Italian-American eatery.

Location: 16251 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Arizona Pizza Company

Pizza, salads and wings in a casual setting.

Location: 13190 E. Colossal Cave Road

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

The Barnyard Crafthouse & Eatery

Grill menu with pizzas, spacious outdoor seating and a cohesive barn theme.

Location: 11011 E. Tanque Verde Road

For more information, check out their website.

Bobazona

Boba spot from Phoenix, specializing in boba drinks and gelato, plus sweet treats like Cinnamon Toast Crunch smoothies and taro milk teas.

Location: 8140 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their website.

BoMo

Boba tea shop with more than a dozen flavors and mochi doughnuts.

Location: 9040 E. Valencia Road

For more information, check out their website.

Charquitas Mexican Food

Mexican food truck with seating near Ace Hardware. Reader Nikki recommends their salsa verde, beef burrito enchilada-style, and their pickled carrots.

Location: 16335 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

El Coronado Restaurant

Sit-down Mexican restaurant with margaritas, burgers and chimichangas.

Location: 7385 S. Houghton Road

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For more information, check out their website.

Hacienda Del Lago

Bar and grill with a happy hour and kids menu at the Del Lago Golf Club.

Location: 14155 E. Via Rancho Del Lago

For more information, check out their website.

Happy Wok

Chinese restaurant with a variety of regional options, from Schezwan chicken to Hunan shrimp, as well as noodles and classic standbys like mapo tofu and Kung Pao chicken.

Location: 9040 E. Valencia Road

For more information, check out their website.

Hops Sports Grill

Classic sports bar with a made-from-scratch menu, a daily happy hour and gameday specials. Recommended by reader Craig!

Location: 120 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their website.

Houghton Meat Market LLC

Locally-owned New-York-style butcher shop, plus ready-made options like meatloaf and bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers.

Location: 10275 E. 22nd St.

For more information, check out their website.

Luckie's Thai Asian Cuisine

Thai restaurant that also offers some Chinese standbys.

Location: 8110 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their website.

Montgomery's

Classic grill menu: burgers, soups, salads, sandwiches, as well as bar fare like mozz sticks.

Location: 13190 E. Colossal Cave Road

For more information, check out their website.

Mr. Toro Carniceria

Mexican-style meat market with a small hot-food menu: combo plates, quesadillas and breakfast burritos, and more.

Location: 7545 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

From left: A massive fish taco, paired with a carnitas Taco Frito at Papa Locos.

Andi Berlin / Arizona Daily Star

Papa Locos

Burritos (including the breakfast variety), tacos, Sonoran dogs and chiles rellenos, as well as burgers.

Location: 8201 S. Rita Road

For more information, check out their website.

Rancho Rustico

Sit-down Mexican restaurant recommended by many on Take-Out in Tucson.

Location: 10275 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their website.

Rincon Mountain Grill

Bar and grill with pizza, wings and Southwest options, with a patio at the Forty Niner Country Club.

Location: Forty Niner Country Club, 12000 E. Tanque Verde Road

For more information, check out their website.

Rocking K Market

Deli with draft beers on tap, a rotating kitchen menu and a cute patio.

Location: 12660 E. Old Spanish Trail

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Serial Grillers

Popular Tucson chain for sandwiches, as well as pizza, tots, wings and salads.

Location: 7585 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their website.

Tanque Verde Ranch

Guest ranch with a variety of cowboy-style dining, from a sit-down restaurant to a saloon, as well as plein-air, post-ride options.

Location: 14301 E. Speedway

For more information, check out their website.

Taqueria 2 Hermanos

Sports bar meets taco shop. The menu at this new spot is a bounty of drink specials and tasty bar food, with Mexican flair. Is it the most fun restaurant on Tucson's far-east side? You'll have to go to find out.

Location: 8270 S. Houghton Road

For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Wings on Fire

Local spot for Buffalo wings, with a variety of creative fries and a small selection of chicken sandwiches, salads and hot dogs

Location: 9040 E. Valencia Road

For more information, check out their website.

Did we miss any of your favorite far-east eats? Let us know at thisistucson@tucson.Com!

The Best Game Day Snacks You Can Make In The Air Fryer

I enjoy Super Bowl Sunday. I'm not much of a football fan, but my friend always hosts a lovely party with plentiful snacks, and I don't have to do a thing. You see, hosting a dinner party is one thing—there's a set meal, and you can plan out the timing—but a party based on hot snacks means lots of upkeep, and frequent refreshing.

You need a lineup of snacks that are delicious, easy to prep, and quick to churn out, leaving you plenty of time to yell at the TV. This sounds like a job for the air fryer. Here's a list of my favorite Air Fryday snacks fit for the big game.

Cheese-stuffed biscuit balls

You know what's better than cheesy breadsticks? These cheese-stuffed biscuit balls. They're made with canned biscuit dough, which makes the preparation straightforward. Pop a can of your favorite vacuum-sealed dough and wrap a biscuit's worth around a fat cube of mozzarella cheese. Throw the balls in the air fryer for a few minutes, and before serving, swipe with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic salt. 

Devils on Horseback

These bite-sized nibbles offer an enticing balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy. All you need is fruit, cheese, and pork to wrap around them. Pitted dates make an excellent fruit pocket for stuffing with cheese, and a half slice of bacon or prosciutto makes for a great pork blanket. Follow the directions here.

American cheese crisps 

Talk about zero prep time: American cheese singles are already ready for your air fryer. While classic cheese frico is a crispy, lacey snack made from a hard cheese like parmesan, American cheese crisps are something altogether new. Simply lay a few floppy singles on the floor of your air fryer and witness their transformation to crunchy, cavernous puffs. Pile them into a bowl and watch them disappear.

Shishito pepper poppers 

Jalapeño poppers are mildly spicy, but for a stuffed-pepper snack that keeps you guessing, try this recipe for shishito pepper poppers instead. Shishitos are long green peppers with a thinner fleshy wall than jalapeños, which allows them to soften a bit faster in the air fryer. Pair that with the knowledge that you'll never know which one are mild and which are a pocket of spicy hellfire and you've got yourself a snack your guests won't forget.

Phyllo wrapped veggies

Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann

If you're looking for a way to incorporate more veggies onto your roster, here's an incredible air fryer option: phyllo dough wrapped veggie sticks. You can use any vegetable you have available in the fridge, like carrot sticks, whole scallions, bell peppers, or asparagus. Lightly buttered phyllo dough creates crisp, flaky layers around each vegetable. Click here for the full recipe.

Mac and cheese bites

This is the only suggested air fryer snack on this list that requires cold leftovers, but it's so insanely good I think it's worth making a batch of mac and cheese the day before. Once the mac and cheese is cold, slice it into sticks or squares and toss into the air fryer as-is, no breading required. The existing cheese and oils from the sauce will fry and crisp to form a crunchy frico cheese exterior with a soft pasta interior. Click here for the full recipe.

Air fryer crunchy chickpeas

Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann

It's nice to have a variety of snacks at the table. Here's one that's easy, low-commitment, and impossible to stop munching on. Air fryer crunchy chickpeas are tossed with seasonings and a secret ingredient: cornstarch. The layer of starch creates a shattering crust on each garbanzo unlike anything you've had before. And they're ready in a snap. Air fryer crunchy chickpeas.

Leftovers egg rolls 

This snack is a lifesaver if you underprepared for your party. Keep a pack of egg roll wrappers around so you can roll up any leftovers you have hanging in your fridge. Yep. Any and all leftovers. Fill the egg roll wrapper with a slice of lasagna, baked beans and cheese, ham and pickles, or leftover potato salad. They crisp up in the air fryer like a dream. Read here for the details.

Bacon-wrapped banana bites

Similar to devils on horseback but even simpler. Make a batch of these bacon-wrapped banana bites. They're an irresistible blend of sweet, earthy, and salty. Slice ripe bananas into one-inch segments and wrap them in strips of bacon. Pop them in the air fryer until crisp.

Air fryer key lime pie 

Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann

Just because it's a snack party doesn't mean we have to skip dessert. This air fryer key lime pie is a nice reminder that spring is just around the corner. Use a store bought graham cracker crust—they're about eight inches in diameter and the aluminum tin fits in most air fryers. With only a few ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly...But don't forget to give the finished pie time in the fridge to cool. 

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