29 Vegan Sides That Make You Want to Grab a Second Helping (Or More)

Great sides don’t just sit quietly next to the main course—they steal the show, and these 29 dishes do exactly that. It starts with a simple scoop, but before long, plates are mysteriously refilling themselves. The kind of dishes that make people ask, “Who made this?” and then immediately grab another serving. Good luck with leftovers because chances are, there won’t be any.

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Spicy Cucumber Salad

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. — Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something refreshing yet with a kick, consider this option. It mixes crisp textures with a spicy punch that draws everyone in for more. Perfect as a side, it adds a vibrant contrast, especially when you want something bold on your plate. Ideal for rounding off a meal where every forkful packs a little heat, Spicy Cucumber Salad might just be the side you reach for second helpings of.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Combining hearty textures and rich flavors, this casserole redefines comfort food for every vegan lover. With each bite offering a creamy, fulfilling experience, it’s designed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Are you planning a special dinner or a casual hangout? Then Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole could be your go-to for a fulfilling side dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

An air fryer pile of asparagus with grated cheese. — Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This dish proves that simplicity can lead to perfection when handled right, especially when it comes to sides. Using an air fryer, this asparagus comes out wonderfully crispy. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate elegance without much fuss. Light yet flavorful, Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe serves up health with a crunch, making it a frequent must-have for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Close-up of several roasted sweet potato wedges on parchment paper, garnished with chopped herbs. — Baked Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Everyone loves a good set of wedges, and this dish offers just that but with a sweet twist. Baked to the right crispness, these sweet potato wedges are a game changer in the realm of vegan sides. They’re hearty enough to keep you coming back for more. Whether served at a party or enjoyed solo, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges make a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

A wooden cutting board with a bowl of tofu bites and a bowl of dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Who says nuggets need chicken to be delicious? These tofu nuggets are crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a perfect vegan snack. Cooked in an air fryer, they offer a healthier alternative without skimping on flavor. Next time you’re in need of a tasty side, Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets will not disappoint, providing both texture and taste in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

A close-up of a dish featuring black beans mixed with chopped onions and garnished with fresh green herbs. — Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Capture the essence of your favorite restaurant beans with this side dish. It brings that beloved smoky flavor to your home kitchen, amplifying any meal with its bold essence. Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrition, making them an excellent addition to any plate that needs a little extra something.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Yellow Lentil Dal

This dish is a comforting staple in many households and for a good reason. It’s warm, filling, and carries a hint of spice that makes it utterly irresistible. Packed with protein and fiber, Yellow Lentil Dal is not just good; it’s good for you. Serve it up on a chilly evening, and feel the comfort of this exquisite side.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper. — Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, smooth mound of mashed potatoes, but vegan! This dish offers the comfort of traditional mashed potatoes without any dairy. Rich in flavor and perfectly smooth, Vegan Mashed Potatoes are ideal for those seeking a classic side dish with a vegan twist. They’re sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Breaded Mushrooms

For a side that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious, try these. With a crunchy outside and a juicy inside, they’re perfect for dipping or even just on their own. Breaded Mushrooms bring a playful touch to your dining table, making them a party favorite or a lovely addition to a family meal.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Vegan Minestrone Soup

Two bowls of soup with pasta and vegetables. — Vegan Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A bowl of this soup brings home the hearty, wholesome flavors of a well-made minestrone. It’s packed with fresh, vibrant veggies and simmered to perfection. Whether you need something warming in cooler weather or a light dinner option, Vegan Minestrone Soup fits the bill beautifully. It’s especially handy when you want something both nutritious and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Close-up of a plate of rice garnished with chopped herbs and slices of lime. — Easy Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You’ll love how simple yet exceptionally flavorful this dish is. With its fresh tang and a gentle kick, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice serves as a refreshing side that complements bolder flavors particularly well. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to enhance their meal with an aromatic and enticing side.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is a sweet and savory treat that makes you want more. It’s rich, comforting, and topped with a wonderful crunch. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a great addition to holiday meals or special occasions, adding a splash of color and a plethora of flavors to your table setup.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

These wraps make eating fun and healthy. They are light, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick meal or a snack. Each bite is a crunch of freshness, making Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps a brilliant choice for those who love vibrant, no-fuss food. They are also gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Vegan Pasta Primavera

A colorful pasta salad with fusilli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, zucchini, and fresh basil leaves is served on a blue plate. — Vegan Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

With a variety of veggies mingled with pasta, this dish is a color celebration on a plate. It’s as wonderful to look at as it is to eat. Full of nutrition and flavor, Vegan Pasta Primavera easily adapts to suit any table needing a bright, healthful side. It’s particularly great when you’re aiming for something comforting yet light.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these potatoes are addictive. They go from simple to extraordinary with just a smash and a roast. Ideal as a side or snack, Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes offer the sublime satisfaction of crispy edges combined with the comforting familiarity of potatoes. They’re consistently a big hit.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Vegan Tortilla Chips

Close-up of crispy tortilla chips with a dollop of guacamole on top. — Vegan Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Homemade and way better than store-bought, these are perfect for dipping into your favorite salsa or guacamole. Made with simple ingredients, Vegan Tortilla Chips are both crunchy and wonderful, setting the standard for what a good snack should be. Don’t forget to bring them out at your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for a way to include more veggies in your diet, this is it. Packed with various vegetables, this casserole is both nourishing and fulfilling. Vegetable Casserole offers a fantastic way to enjoy a medley of seasonal produce, all in one delicious and easy-to-serve dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

This coleslaw is a simple, crunchy, and fresh addition to any meal. It’s especially perfect for BBQs and picnics, providing a cool, crisp side that balances out heartier flavors. Easy Vegan Coleslaw is the ideal pick for a quick and delicious side dish that complements a variety of meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Upgrade your meal with this flavorful and aromatic side. It combines mushrooms and rice in a way that’s full of texture and taste. For a comforting and filling side dish, look no further than Baked Mushroom Rice. It pairs wonderfully with almost any main course and is sure to be a comforting addition to your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

A casserole dish brimming with golden-brown bread crumbs, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, this vegan cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors. — Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Here’s a dish that brings the cheesy delight without any cheese. Packed with broccoli and rice, it’s creamy, comforting, and completely vegan. A great way to please the palate without any dairy, Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole makes for a heartwarming side that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Homemade Ratatouille

A close up of food. — Homemade Ratatouille. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A mix of hearty veggies is what you get when you sit down with Homemade Ratatouille. Each bite brings a warm, familiar feeling thanks to its classic mix of ingredients. It holds onto its charm without the need for fancy words or fancy trimmings. Share it with loved ones and see how simple ingredients can bring happiness without saying much.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Cauliflower Nuggets

For a fun and tasty twist on traditional snacks, give these a try. They have a pleasant bite to them and are a healthier alternative to the usual fried fare. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a good movie snack, Cauliflower Nuggets are a choice that won’t let you down.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

This unique dessert-side combo is a conversation starter at any table. It’s sweet, intriguing, and perfect for those who love a bit different. For a memorable finish to your meal or a sweet snack during the day, Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe bears all the hallmarks of a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background. — Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bring a taste of the Caribbean to your dining table with this vibrant dish. It’s packed with flavors and has just the right amount of kick. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans is an excellent option for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. It’s not just about heat; it’s about flavor first and foremost.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

A gochujang cabbage steak on a bed of white rice. — Gochujang Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of an Asian twist, this could be your pick. These cabbage steaks are marinated in gochujang, providing a unique and delicious experience. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks are excellent for those who want something different in their vegan diet, offering both nutrition and exciting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

A close-up of a pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, red onions, and seasonings in a white bowl. — Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This pasta salad does more than fill you up; it brings a festival of grilled veggies to your fork. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad is a superb choice for those looking for a hearty side that’s both nutritious and wonderful to eat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Two bowls of tomato soup with basil and tomatoes. — Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Warm up with a bowl of this classic comfort food. Each spoonful offers a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and herbaceous notes. It’s rich with the flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. Whether you need something warming for a rainy day or a simple appetizer, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a timeless choice that always pleases.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Harvest Salad

With Harvest Salad, it’s all about balance and the play of different textures. You get a mix of crunch and softness with every bite, thanks to its earthy selection of ingredients. Everyone can find something to like, especially with a variety of textures working together so well. It’s perfect for any occasion or event without the need for anything extra.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Imagine the creamy, comforting texture of mac and cheese, made entirely vegan. It’s just as fulfilling as its dairy counterpart, if not more. Vegan Mac and Cheese is sure to bring a smile to anyone looking for a dairy-free version of this beloved dish. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese