Ten on Tuesday: Sides Edition

I’m hosting an Easter brunch this weekend, so Carole’s call for Ten Favorite Side Dishes to Serve at Family Dinners is a perfect topic as I plan my menu.

1. Ribboned asparagus salad with lemon from Smitten Kitchen (pictured above). It looks pretty and springy and tastes great.

2. Roasted cauliflower with kalamata olives, parmesan, and pickled lemon. I shave the cheese over the cauliflower when I take it out of the oven and toss in the olives and lemons, which I’ve rough chopped.

3. Cilantro, chickpea, and lime salad. I make this a lot during the summer, as a side and sometimes to eat for lunch.

4. Roasted new potatoes and leeks. They’re buttery and delicious, especially when I get them from the organic farm down the road.

5. Strawberry and spinach salad. My former co-worker gave me this recipe, and it’s a hit whenever I make it. If you want, I’ll write out the recipe; the dressing is delish.

6. Cornbread. Add a drizzle of honey and it becomes dessert.

7. Broccoli rabe. I like it shocked, then sauteed in olive oil and garlic with a drizzle of lemon. Wish I had some in front of me right now, in fact!

8. Celery stuffed with cream cheese. My mom served this at every big family meal, and while I don’t make it often, it’s like my own Proustian side dish when I do.

9. Sauteed Brussels sprouts. I like them roasted, too, but this is my favorite way to serve those micro cabbages.

10. Watermelon, feta, cherry tomato, and mint salad. It’s a little early in the season for it, but it sure is a tasty, refreshing side!

What are your favorite sides to serve at a family dinner?