29 Vegan Sides That Make The Main Dish Work Harder For Attention

If the main dish is starting to feel like the only star of the show, it’s time to bring in reinforcements. These sides work in the background, subtly boosting every bite with their own unique punch. They don’t compete—they simply upgrade the meal, making every bite more flavorful, comforting, and worth every second of the dining experience.

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.

This post has affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you.

Cauliflower Nuggets

Bite into something crunchy and packed with flavor. Cauliflower Nuggets are great for dipping and add a nice crunch to your meal. They’re a go-to for when you want something that hits all the right spots without being heavy. Perfect for any gathering or just a night in.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Fresh and vibrant with a mix that feels really special. Blood Orange and Fennel Salad brings a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your table. A perfect mix of crisp and juicy that pairs well with almost anything. It’s a salad that doesn’t get lost next to the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

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.

Whip up some Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets for a crispy, protein-packed side that almost steals the show. Every nugget has a crunch that makes you question if it’s really tofu. It’s a perfect partner for all your dipping desires, making meals more fun and engaging.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

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.

A great mix of grilled veggies and pasta makes for a full-flavored dish. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own or the perfect side. It brings together a variety of flavors in a way that’s both simple and fulfilling. Give it a shot!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Onion rings that are light and crispy without the greasiness. Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe brings a familiar, comforting treat to any meal. They’re perfect for casual meals or as a fun addition to a more substantial dinner. Great for sharing, too.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings 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.

Simple but packed with flavors that complement each other. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans offers a hearty and comforting spoonful with every bite. It’s a great way to bring a taste of the islands to your table. You’ll love how filling yet light it feels.
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.

A warm, veggie-packed bowl that’s both filling and light. Vegan Minestrone Soup is a go-to for something that feels nourishing. It’s great any time of the day, whether as a side or a starter. Each spoonful brings a comforting feeling that’s just right.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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

Make some Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe for a light, green side that tastes like it’s fresh out of a fancy restaurant. Its crisp yet tender texture makes for a side that really pops next to anything you’re serving. It’s quick, effortless, and absolutely tasty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

Vegan Tortilla Chips

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

Munch on Vegan Tortilla Chips that bring crunch to your table so good that they could easily stand alone. They’re great with a dip or just on their own, and they add that fun twist to your meal. Versatile and always a hit, they definitely add excitement to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Harvest Salad

Harvest Salad brings together a mix of elements with a touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch. The fresh ingredients shine through in every bite, making it more than just another salad. It’s a wonderful complement to the main course, keeping every forkful dynamic and interesting.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

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.

Slightly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges make for a comforting and tasty addition to any meal. They bring a bit of sweetness without being overpowering. A great side to enjoy whether you’re with friends or on your own.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

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

The creamy and cheesy without any dairy. Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a surefire way to add something hearty and comforting to your meal. Perfect for when you want something that feels a bit indulgent. You’ll definitely want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

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.

Roasted Potatoes are classic, yet they never lose their charm, bringing a crispy, golden touch to your meal. They pair seamlessly with almost any main course, adding a nice crunch and a hearty feel. You can never go wrong with this timeless side.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

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.

Rich and tasty, it’s a great way to enjoy Brussels sprouts. Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole mixes flavors that upgrade the humble sprout to something much more. It’s a side that will have everyone asking for seconds. A fantastic complement to any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

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. — Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fill your plate with Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables, showcasing the natural sweetness of each element. It’s a beautiful, colorful mix that adds a comforting, robust texture to any meal. Simple yet deeply flavorful, it’s the side that promises satisfaction with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Fresh, crisp, and with a kick, Spicy Cucumber Salad keeps everything lively on your table. It’s more than just a side; it’s an experience full of contrasting textures and flavors. It’s a refreshing break that pairs wonderfully with rich main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Your nachos will never be the same with Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe, which brings a creamy, cheesy kick to the party. It’s so good; you’ll find yourself adding it to everything. This rich dip plays well with chips, veggies, and even as a topping.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

For a sweet twist, Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe is quite the surprise. This dessert-turned-side brings a touch of fun and indulgence to your meal. It’s perfect for pairing with a cup of your favorite beverage, making each bite a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Baked Tofu

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

Crispy on the outside but tender inside, Baked Tofu is a protein-packed side that holds its shape and flavor. It’s easy to pair with any main dish and adds a nice texture to your meal. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a versatile dish that always works.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

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.

Flavorful and hearty, just like at your favorite spot. Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are a perfect side that’s versatile and filling. These beans bring so much to your meal and are perfect for any dish. You’ll love having these as a part of your spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Crunchy and sweet with a tangy dip on the side. Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip make a fun and tasty addition to any meal. They bring a new twist to regular fries with a great flavor combo. Ideal for when you want something a little different but familiar.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

Golden brown roasted potato cubes garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy outside and soft inside, they’re great any time. Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes are perfect alongside any dish, not just breakfast. They bring comforting, well-cooked potatoes to your table. You’ll find them hard to resist at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Green Bean Casserole brings that creamy, comforting touch without overshadowing your main. It’s a classic that never gets old, thanks to its smooth and rich texture. Perfectly seasoned and fulfilling, you’ll want to keep serving it, and it always delivers. Whether for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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

Soft inside and crispy outside, the perfect combo. Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a fun way to enjoy potatoes with great texture. They’re a hit with almost any meal and easy to enjoy. With their golden, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re perfect for bringing something extra to your plate, making them a standout side dish at any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Hearty and full of earthy flavors, Baked Mushroom Rice brings together a pleasing mix that’s perfect for any main dish. It adds a warm, comforting element to your meal, with the mushrooms infusing the rice with their rich, savory taste. A dependable side if you love mushrooms, this dish upgrades any meal and makes for an excellent accompaniment to both plant-based and meat dishes alike.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

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.

Creamy and comforting, without dairy. Vegan Mac and Cheese is perfect for those who miss the classic but want a dairy-free option. It’s rich and flavorful, with a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every noodle. Great as a side or a main dish, it’s rewarding and indulgent without the dairy. You’ll keep coming back for more, and so will anyone you serve it to!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Homemade Ratatouille

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

Layers of veggies baked to bring out their best flavors. Homemade Ratatouille offers a delicious and colorful side that complements any meal. It’s hearty enough to be a star on its own but works perfectly alongside your main course. You won’t regret adding this.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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

Smooth, creamy, and totally dairy-free. Vegan Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side for anyone craving classic comfort food with a twist. They’re easy to enjoy, with a rich texture and flavorful taste, making them a great addition to any meal. Whether paired with a hearty main or served as a standalone dish, they’re a must-have side that pairs well with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Vegan Pasta Primavera

Fresh and light, packed with veggies and bursting with flavor. Vegan Pasta Primavera is a great choice for adding something a bit special to your meal. It’s comforting without being too heavy, making it a perfect side or even a light main dish. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, you’ll enjoy every bite of this colorful and fulfilling dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera