43 Vegan Winter Side Ideas That Work Well With Hearty Main Dishes

Cold-weather meals often need a solid lineup of dependable sides. In this list of 43 vegan winter side ideas, you’ll find plenty that hold their own next to hearty mains. From weeknight dinners to weekend spreads, there’s something practical for just about every kind of table. No fuss, no fluff, just easy pairings that actually work.

A pile of crispy shallots on a plate. — Golden Shallots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Crispy potato wedges served on a plate with a cup of coffee. — Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you love crispy potatoes with a fun twist, this Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes will win you over fast. The ridges create the perfect balance of texture and seasoning in every bite. It’s a simple, eye-catching side dish that pairs beautifully with hearty winter meals. Great for serving guests or adding some creativity to your dinner table, they’ll disappear as quickly as you made them.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Chunky Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

Nothing beats a bowl of hearty soup during cold weather, and this Chunky Vegan Minestrone Soup delivers that cozy satisfaction. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and enough flavor to warm you right up. Whether served as a light starter or as part of a full meal with toasted bread, this soup feels like comfort in a bowl. It’s a classic choice when you want something both filling and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Vegan Minestrone Soup

Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice

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

A fresh twist on a classic side dish, this Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice is a great match for richer, heavier meals. The bright flavors and fluffy texture make it feel light without stealing the spotlight from your main dish. It’s one of those recipes that works equally well for a quick dinner or an impressive plate to share. Bring it to the table, and it’s sure to be scooped up fast.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

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

When you’re looking for a plant-based option with serious crunch, these Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets deliver every time. They’re versatile, easy to make, and great for dipping or tossing into your favorite side salads. Perfect for busy weeknights or snacks that impress, these nuggets are a go-to option for tofu lovers and skeptics alike. You might want to make extra, because they go fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Creamy Vegan Cashew Queso

A wooden bowl of nacho cheese dip topped with sliced jalapeños, surrounded by tortilla chips on a plate. A checked cloth and a glass in the background. — Creamy Vegan Cashew Queso. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dips have a way of turning any gathering into something memorable, and this Creamy Vegan Cashew Queso is no exception. Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted veggies or scooping it up with chips, this dish adds a cheesy, velvety flair to any spread. It’s a plant-based favorite that brings bold, fulfilling flavor to the table without feeling heavy. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Cashew Queso

Air Fryer Asparagus

Air fried asparagus with garlic and parmesan on a white plate. — Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple and quick, this Air Fryer Asparagus is the side dish you didn’t know you needed. Lightly crisped and perfectly tender, it sneaks some greens onto the plate in the easiest way possible. Even those who might not love vegetables will find themselves reaching for seconds. It’s the kind of recipe that makes mealtime feel effortless while still being fresh and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

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.

Sweet potatoes become an instant favorite in this Baked Sweet Potato Wedges recipe, where crispy edges meet soft, fluffy centers. Their natural sweetness blends perfectly with savory spices, making them a hit alongside a range of hearty mains. Great for meal prep or a last-minute side, these wedges always seem to disappear before the rest of the meal is finished. They’re proof that simple can be special.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Green Goddess Salad

A close-up of a plate with bright green guacamole, chopped vegetables, and tortilla chips on the side. — Green Goddess Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A salad doesn’t have to be boring, and this Green Goddess Salad proves it by offering vibrant greens paired with a rich, creamy dressing. It’s a fresh way to round out heavier meals or stand alone as a light lunch. Serve it family-style or enjoy it straight from the bowl, it’s a flexible, flavorful option. Once on the table, it adds a refreshing balance to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

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. — Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Wholesome and flavorful, this Caribbean Rice and Beans has the kind of bold taste that transforms your dinner. Hearty and fulfilling, it pairs well with just about any main dish and brings extra life to your plate. Beyond its comforting texture, it delivers a warm and inviting flavor that everyone will enjoy. Make it once, and it will fast become part of your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rice and Beans

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Dinner sides get a little more exciting with this Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes recipe. The smashing technique creates extra texture for a perfectly crunchy bite, while the soft centers stay buttery and tender. It’s a versatile choice that lets your main dish shine but still stands out on its own. If you’re looking for a comforting yet upgraded classic, these potatoes never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Pico de Gallo

When fresh flavors are on the menu, this Pico de Gallo is a must-have addition to the table. It adds brightness to every bite and works just as well spooned over a main dish as it does paired with tortilla chips. The vibrant ingredients deliver refreshing contrast to bold, hearty meals. Easy to whip up on short notice, it’s one of those simple recipes everyone appreciates.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Crispy Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Crispy Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Texture lovers will adore this Crispy Baked Tofu, which offers just the right balance of crunch on the outside and firmness on the inside. It’s a great way to bring protein to the table while keeping things flavorful and fun. Whether paired with roasted vegetables or nestled into a winter bowl, it’s a versatile option for weeknight meals. Try this, and you’ll see why tofu deserves more love.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Tofu

Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside. — Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Comfort food takes on a plant-based twist with this Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Perfectly creamy and full of flavor, it’s the ultimate side dish for a cozy dinner or a standout addition to a potluck. This casserole is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you see how quickly it disappears. There’s no wrong time to dig into something this hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad

A wooden bowl filled with bowtie pasta mixed with roasted zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs. — Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Balance out a rich winter meal with this Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad, offering light and colorful flavors. Tossed with simple yet bold ingredients, it brings a pop of freshness to any table. Ideal for potlucks, lunches, or even a quick meal at home, it’s an easy way to keep things plant-based and fulfilling. Once you try this, it might just earn a regular spot in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad

Rich Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

Cozy up to cold weather with this Rich Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, which brings bold, comforting flavor to every spoonful. It’s smooth and fulfilling without feeling heavy, making it great as a starter or pair for your favorite bread. Let this soup add warmth and personality to your meal with its classic mix of rich tomatoes and fresh herbs. Whether you’re hosting or relaxing, it’s a recipe that delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Rich Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Crispy Breaded Mushrooms

Breaded Mushrooms in a white bowl with a fork. — Crispy Breaded Mushrooms. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Getting that perfect crispy bite is easy with this Crispy Breaded Mushrooms recipe. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender mushroom inside is irresistible. These are a hit as a side dish or even as a snack for relaxed evenings. You’ll love how versatile they are, fitting right in with any hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Breaded Mushrooms

Fresh Homemade Ketchup With Tomatoes

Switching from store-bought to this Fresh Homemade Ketchup With Tomatoes is a choice you won’t regret. It’s tangy, fresh, and loaded with flavor that stands out. Ideal for dipping fries, nuggets, or onion rings, it adds a homemade touch to your table. Once you try it, packaged ketchup might not seem appealing anymore.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Homemade Ketchup With Tomatoes

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings

Crunchy layers meet onion sweetness with this Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings recipe. The air fryer works its magic to give great texture without being too heavy. Perfect for dinner spreads or snacking sessions, they’re sure to impress with their satisfying crunch. These are the kind of rings that everyone fights to grab first.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings

Fresh Quinoa Salad

Close-up of a quinoa salad with chickpeas, chopped cucumber, parsley, red onion, and a light dressing, with a spoon partially visible. — Fresh Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A side dish like this Fresh Quinoa Salad strikes the perfect balance of light and hearty. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s fresh enough to lighten up a meal while still keeping you full. Serve it at potlucks or as part of your weekly routine, it works beautifully with just about anything. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly reliable.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Quinoa Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate. — Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Moments where sweet meets savory happen in this Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. The warm, roasted sweet potatoes pair perfectly with tender chickpeas to create a filling yet fresh dish. Whether you serve it as a main or as a side, it’s always going to be crowd-friendly. This dish brings a comforting twist to any table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Crunchy Vegan Tortilla Chips

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

Snacks become instantly better when you serve this Crunchy Vegan Tortilla Chips recipe. Thin, crispy, and fulfilling, they’re excellent for scooping up dips or enjoying as they are. Whether you’re getting ready for game day or a quiet movie night, these fit perfectly into the lineup. After trying them, store-bought chips won’t stand a chance.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Vegan Tortilla Chips

Vegan 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 delightful blend of flavors. — Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A hearty dinner feels more complete with this Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole on the table. Creamy, fulfilling, and loaded with comforting textures, it’s a recipe that delivers. Whether you prepare it for a weeknight meal or bring it to a gathering, it’s always a winner. Once served, this casserole rarely has leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Bringing bold and fresh flavors together is easy with this Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps recipe. These wraps are light yet rich in flavor, offering a perfect balance of crunch and satisfaction. They work well as a standalone meal or pair beautifully with heartier dishes. Perfect for when you want something both fresh and filling.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Any meal becomes even better when paired with this Easy Vegan Coleslaw. Its fresh crunch and light tanginess make it the perfect companion to so many dishes. Whether it’s a backyard gathering or a weeknight table spread, this coleslaw brings excellent balance to your lineup. It’s simple to make and gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Golden Cauliflower Nuggets

Comfort foods get a veggie boost with this Golden Cauliflower Nuggets recipe. Crispy, tender, and packed with flavor, they fit right in as snacks or side dishes. These nuggets make vegetables far more exciting, even for picky eaters. Serve these up, and watch everyone reach back for more.
Get the Recipe: Golden Cauliflower Nuggets

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.

Turning a classic vegetable into something surprising is easy with this Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole recipe. It’s creamy, fulfilling, and brings out the best flavors of Brussels sprouts. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty standalone, this is one recipe guests will talk about. Even non-sprout fans might ask for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Golden Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Adding variety to your sides is simple with this Golden Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip. The air fryer creates the perfect crisp-tender texture for a fulfilling bite. Paired with the creamy dip, it feels indulgent without being overwhelming. Use this recipe to bring excitement back to your vegetable sides.
Get the Recipe: Golden Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing depth and warmth to meals is easy with this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables recipe. Roasting enhances the naturally sweet flavors of the vegetables while keeping things simple. These make a great side for rich main dishes or even work as a meal prep option. Add this dish to your rotation for a no-fuss favorite.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Spicy Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

Cabbage gets an exciting makeover with this Spicy Gochujang Cabbage Steaks recipe. The bold, spicy kick highlights the tender and caramelized texture of the steaks. It’s a great way to add a unique twist to your dinner while staying plant-based. Once served, these steaks will steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Rich Vegan Chocolate Salami

Ending meals on a sweet note is easy with this Rich Vegan Chocolate Salami recipe. Packed with rich chocolate goodness, this dessert feels decadent yet approachable. It’s a fun slice-and-serve treat that’s great for gatherings or just a little something special. Perfect for sharing or savoring bite by bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Vegan Chocolate Salami

Hearty Vegetable Casserole

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

There’s something cozy about this Hearty Vegetable Casserole, making it perfect for pairing with rich main dishes. Packed with wholesome vegetables, it’s hearty without weighing you down. Its warming, comforting flavors make it ideal for family meals or gatherings. Serve it once, and it’ll become a favorite side no one forgets.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole

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.

A little spice can go a long way, and this Spicy Cucumber Salad proves it. Crisp cucumbers tossed in a bold dressing deliver just the right balance to your meal. It’s refreshing enough to brighten any plate but flavorful enough to leave an impression. This is the side you’ll turn to when you need a quick, flavorful boost.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Granola with nuts and oats is drizzled with honey, creating a symphony of flavors reminiscent of a vegan sweet potato casserole. — Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something sweet, warm, and comforting, this Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole has you covered. Its balance of natural sweetness and hearty texture fits right in with heavier dishes. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and modern, perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals. Guests will keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Rustic Homemade Ratatouille

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

Few sides feel as naturally balanced as this Rustic Homemade Ratatouille. It’s a beautiful mix of slow-cooked vegetables that work seamlessly alongside hearty main courses. The flavorful simplicity of this dish feels special without being overly fancy. Add it to your menu for a side that’s comforting and timeless.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Homemade Ratatouille

Savory Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Deep flavors make this Savory Baked Mushroom Rice a standout option for your meal. It’s rich and filling without stealing the spotlight, perfect for complementing hearty dishes. The soft, aromatic rice paired with mushrooms creates a wonderful blend of textures and tastes. It’s the kind of side dish that feels essential.
Get the Recipe: Savory Baked Mushroom Rice

Tender Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl. — Tender Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Even something as simple as sautéed kale can feel like the perfect addition to your meal. This Tender Sautéed Kale provides an earthy, fresh flavor that balances out bold, rich mains. Lightly cooked to preserve its natural taste, it’s both nourishing and delicious. Serve this when you need a green vegetable that delivers on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy and rich, this Mushroom Gravy adds the perfect finishing touch to your favorite dishes. Whether poured over a casserole, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies, it ties the whole meal together. Its velvety texture enhances the flavors of anything it touches. Keep this recipe in mind when you want a sauce that always impresses.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

Packed with bold seasonings, these Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans bring an exciting twist to your meal. They’re flavorful enough to eat on their own but also pair well with rice, vegetables, or hearty mains. This is a side dish that feels both familiar and fresh at the same time. It’s endlessly versatile and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Tangy Indian Onion Salad

A bowl of red onion and cilantro salad on a table. — Tangy Indian Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Tangy Indian Onion Salad brings a lively, crisp bite to your plate. The bright, tangy flavors are perfect for cutting through the richness of heavier dishes. It’s an easy way to add variety and intrigue to your meal without a lot of hassle. Pair this with other plates for a harmonious balance that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Indian Onion Salad

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

A classic side dish gets a vegan twist with this Vegan Green Bean Casserole. Smooth, creamy layers paired with crisp beans offer a mix of textures and tastes that always impress. It’s a comfort food favorite that blends traditional flavors with a fresh, plant-based approach. Make it for the moments you want timeless and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Mac and Cheese

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.

No one can resist a creamy bowl of mac and cheese, and this Vegan Mac and Cheese brings all the comfort you crave. Though dairy-free, this rich and indulgent dish pairs perfectly with other hearty plates. It’s as satisfying as the original, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy. Add it to your side dishes for a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onions, roasted red peppers, herbs, and sliced almonds, served with a spoon. — Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Combining roasted peppers with tender chickpeas, this Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers is full of vibrant flavor and texture. It’s a colorful option that works beautifully with heavier, richer dishes. Light and tangy, it brightens the meal without overwhelming the other dishes. Make it when you need a refreshing, versatile side.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers

Golden Shallots

Golden and caramelized, these Golden Shallots bring a subtle sweetness to your table. They’re the kind of side dish that enhances a meal without stealing attention from the main course. Elegant in their simplicity, they work well with just about everything. Add them for a warm, savory touch that upgrades the whole dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Golden Shallots