Vegan Sides That Turn Your Meal Into A Masterpiece—29 Recipes To Try

No meal is truly complete without the right supporting cast. These 29 vegan side dishes add the perfect touch of flavor, crunch, or heartiness to whatever’s on the menu. Easy, versatile, and always delicious, they prove that sides deserve just as much attention as the main dish. Because the right sides can turn any meal into something special.

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

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Yellow Lentil Dal

When you’re after a hearty side, Yellow Lentil Dal fits right in. Its rich texture and aromatic depth turn any main dish into a comforting meal. Think of it as that warm hug on a plate, with just the right kick to keep things interesting. Perfect for adding some spice to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Vegetable Casserole

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

When you’re craving some soul food, Vegetable Casserole makes the cut. Packed with hearty vegetables, it offers a warm, homely feel. It’s one of those dishes everyone loves when looking for a cozy addition to the meal. A real comfort food without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

A bit of earthiness never hurt anyone, right? With Baked Mushroom Rice, you get a simple yet tasty side to go with many meals. The mushrooms add a deep profile, while the baking brings out a unique aroma. It’s that bit of twist you didn’t know your meal needed.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

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.

Looking for some variety? Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans might just be what you need. The blend is smooth, bringing in a mix of cultures and taste, all on your plate. It’s like taking a brief trip with every bite. A great side to add layers to your meal without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

Crave something hearty but light? Vegan Minestrone Soup is a go-to. Its rich broth brings out the natural flavors of each ingredient, making every spoonful comforting. It’s packed with veggies and beans, offering a filling yet gentle option. The mix of ingredients creates an inviting aroma and heartwarming soup, making it a must-have in many kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Cauliflower Nuggets

For something crunchy, Cauliflower Nuggets hit the spot. They’re a great way to add a booming crunch and flavor to meals. You can enjoy them alone or pair them with your favorite sauces for an extra touch. Turn meal times into snack times with these fun bites.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Breaded Mushrooms

You can’t go wrong with Breaded Mushrooms when you’re in the mood for something crispy. They’re light, fulfilling, and pair nicely with many dips. The breading adds a layer that brings a delicious bite without weighing you down. Great for any casual gathering.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Vegan Cheesy Broccoli 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 Cheesy Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Looking for something with a bit of coverage? Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Casserole offers all the comfort you’d want. The cheesy effect and broccoli mix ensures a creamy and pleasing side dish. Perfect when you’re after something hearty to round up your plate.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes in a white bowl. — Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Get some crunch with Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Each bite delivers a beautiful contrast between the golden, crispy edges and the soft, fluffy center. They’re simple, crispy, and deliciously addictive. These can be the little surprise addition that pairs with virtually anything. Who knew smashed potatoes could be the go-to side for any occasion?
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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.

For a fresh twist to your dinner, try Easy Cilantro Lime Rice. The limes zing and fragrant cilantro create a refreshing balance that wakes up your palate. It’s light, aromatic, and adds a pleasant citrus note that’s hard to resist. Perfect for those days you want a flavorful but simple side. Seriously, who doesn’t love a good, fresh rice dish?
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

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.

Craving something sweet yet savory? Baked Sweet Potato Wedges could be your jam. They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bring a natural sweetness to the table. A must-have when you want to skip classic fries and opt for something a bit more fun.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Add some crunch to your meal with Easy Vegan Coleslaw. It’s refreshing and quick to make, offering a simple side that complements burgers, sandwiches, and more. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or having a casual lunch, it just seems to fit in perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

When you’re looking for something fresh and filling, Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps are a hit. The crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch that complements the flavorful filling. They’re packed with a nice variety, making them fun to eat without being heavy. Ideal for when you want something light yet fulfilling on your table.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

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.

For a side that brings some comfort and taste, Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad is always a win. It involves grilled veggies and pasta, coming together in a beautiful match. Perfect as an option when you need a light yet flavorful addition to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

Spice things up with Gochujang Cabbage Steaks. This dish adds a unique bite with its sturdy texture and spicy notes. It’s an adventurous way to enjoy cabbage and pairs well with both mild and bold mains. An exciting change if you want to break from the usual.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Harvest Salad

Try mixing it up with Harvest Salad. Every bite offers a gratifying contrast of textures, from crisp greens to tender, flavorful add-ins. It’s a lovely blend that brings a burst of colors and flavors. Great for a fresh, vibrant touch alongside heavier dishes or just on its own. Always a great choice when you want something light but full of variety.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Vegan Chocolate Salami

Feeling like adding a sweet twist? Vegan Chocolate Salami might surprise you. Its unique appearance makes it a conversation starter before the first bite. It incorporates rich flavors without overwhelming sweetness. While not your typical side, it shines as a curious treat that invites curiosity and delight to the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami

Air Fryer Asparagus

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

Need something green and quick? Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe makes a crispy, light side. The hot air cooking method locks in flavor while giving each spear a perfect, delicate crisp. It brings a nice crunch and slight char for added flavor. You can almost taste the freshness and simplicity in every crisp bite. It’s a staple for fast yet nutritious sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Homemade Ratatouille

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

For a classic touch, Homemade Ratatouille offers everything. Layers of different veggies blend together for a rich experience. It’s like a medley you’ve always known but still find exciting each time. Perfect when you need a dish that’s full of character and heart.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

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.

When comfort is on your mind, Vegan Mac and Cheese always delivers. It’s creamy without any dairy, making it a go-to for many. This dish offers that familiar cheesy satisfaction without leaving you feeling too full. It’s nice to enjoy something familiar and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Roasted Potatoes

Close-up of vegan roasted potato wedges garnished with chopped parsley. The potato skins are slightly crispy and browned, with visible seasoning. — Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Keep it simple and fulfilling with Roasted Potatoes. The golden-brown edges give way to a fluffy, tender center that’s hard to resist. Every bite brings a comforting blend of crispy goodness. A favorite side that you can rely on to go with so many meals, these potatoes are familiar, easy to love, and always welcomed.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

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.

Light and fresh, Vegan Pasta Primavera fuses veggies with pasta for a rewarding meal addition. It’s easygoing and makes for a lovely accompaniment to any bigger dish. It gives you a simple way to bring some freshness to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

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.

When you want something crunchy yet surprising, Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes give a new look to simple sides. Their texture offers a pleasant bite, and the visual intrigue is equally fun. It’s an engaging way to present potatoes and something that catches the eye instantly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

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.

Add a little kick with Spicy Cucumber Salad. It’s refreshing with a bit of heat, making it a wonderful companion for many meals. Light and crisp, this salad offers a brilliant contrast without overpowering your main dish. Perfect for when you need that extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Wanting a comforting dish with a hint of sweet? Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole combines smooth textures with a touch of sweetness. It pairs well with a broad range of main dishes or stands strong on its own. You can rely on this dish to add some warmth to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

For soup lovers, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup brings a balancing hint of sweet and savory. It’s smooth with a fresh note from basil, creating a beautiful sip every time. The best part: it fits nicely with sandwiches or as a light meal. Who could say no to a warming soup?
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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.

For those looking for a snackable treat, Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are your best bet. They’re crunchy, simple, and offer that inviting bite-sized option for casual eating. Pair them with your favorite dip, and they’re a great choice when you desire a delicious nibble.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Vegan Tortilla Chips

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

Crave chips but want to keep it vegan? Vegan Tortilla Chips check all the boxes. Baked or fried to perfection, they deliver that delicious crunch in every bite. They’re convenient and offer a light crunch without added fuss. These chips serve as good company for any gathering or just a quiet night in with some good dip.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Baked Tofu

For a protein-packed side, Baked Tofu serves as a dependable choice. Its lightly crisp exterior gives way to a firm, flavorful center that absorbs seasonings beautifully. It’s simple, allows for versatile pairings, and offers a solid bite without overwhelming other dishes. Great as a standalone snack or as an addition to your favorite meals.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu