29 Vegan Sides Recipes Helped Me Get Back On Track With Healthy Eating

You know that moment when your meal feels off, but you can’t figure out why? That’s usually when vegan sides step in like the underrated backup dancer who actually steals the show. These 29 recipes made eating clean way less of a chore and a lot more doable. Turns out, it’s easier to stay on track when your plate isn’t just beige and boring.

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.

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Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

This soup is packed with a mix of hearty ingredients that make it filling without being heavy. It’s an easy go-to when you want something comforting but also healthy. Vegan Minestrone Soup has the kind of warmth you crave without the extra calories. It’s a great addition to any meal, light yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

The perfect balance between crispy and tender, these potatoes offer a crunch without being greasy. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes are simple to make and don’t require a ton of effort. They’re great as a snack or a side to round out any meal. They’ll definitely keep you on track with healthy eating.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Breaded Mushrooms

If you’re craving something crunchy, Breaded Mushrooms are a great option. These bite-sized snacks bring texture and flavor without being overwhelming. Perfect as a snack or a light side dish, they’re both satisfying and healthy. They offer a twist on the usual veggie side options.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

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.

This rice brings a fresh, tangy touch to any meal without feeling too heavy. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice is a quick and simple side that complements any dish. It’s a light yet filling option that will keep you feeling energized. You can whip it up in no time and it’ll always be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon. — Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Simple yet refreshing, Cucumber Tomato Salad is an easy way to add a little extra crunch to your meal. It’s light, packed with fresh ingredients, and quick to make. This side is a great way to feel full without the heaviness. It’s a perfect go-to when you want something light and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cauliflower Nuggets

These bite-sized pieces are a healthier alternative to regular nuggets, offering a fulfilling crunch. Cauliflower Nuggets are easy to make and work well with just about any meal. They’re flavorful without being overdone, a great snack or side. They’re a fun way to add some veggies to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Who doesn’t love onion rings? With the air fryer, Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings come out crunchy without all the grease. These are a much healthier alternative, and they still satisfy your craving for something crispy. Perfect to pair with any meal for that extra crunch.
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.

When you need something hearty, Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans has the right balance of flavor and substance. It’s filling but won’t weigh you down. This dish is a great way to stay on track with healthy eating while still enjoying a fulfilling meal. It’s a simple, flavorful side that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Harvest Salad

A great option for adding some color and crunch to your plate, Harvest Salad is both light and fulfilling. It’s an easy-to-make salad that doesn’t need a lot of ingredients but packs a punch. A perfect side when you want something fresh and filling without too much effort. It’s definitely a healthy choice.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

These fries are a healthier take on the classic side, bringing a nice crunch without the extra calories. Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip are quick and simple to make, and the dip adds that perfect finishing touch. They’re a fun, tasty side that’s also good for you. You’ll love how easy it is to make them.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a fillin dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet potatoes give it a natural sweetness that balances out the savory flavors. This dish is perfect when you’re craving comfort food but still want to keep it healthy. It’s easy to make and always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Pasta Salad

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

If you’re looking for a light and flavorful side, Vegan Pasta Salad checks all the boxes. It’s packed with simple ingredients and can be customized to suit any taste. This dish is a great way to keep things healthy without sacrificing flavor. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t take much to make it shine.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Close-up of a dish with crispy tater tots, green bell peppers, and a creamy sauce, topped with fried onions. — Vegan Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For a healthier twist on a classic favorite, Vegan Tater Tot Casserole is the way to go. It has all the comfort of a traditional casserole but without the heaviness. This dish is fulfilling, without leaving you feeling sluggish. It’s an easy-to-make option that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Homemade Ratatouille

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

A dish that packs in a ton of flavor without a lot of calories, Homemade Ratatouille is a great way to get a serving of veggies. It’s simple to prepare, yet each bite is filled with delicious flavors. Perfect as a side to any meal, it’s healthy and fulfilling. You can’t go wrong with this easy-to-make recipe.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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

Light and crispy, Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe is an easy and healthy side that doesn’t take much effort. This dish offers the perfect combination of crunch and tenderness. It’s simple but effective, and it pairs well with nearly any meal. If you’re craving something quick and healthy, this one is a winner.
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.

When you’re in the mood for something crunchy, these chips are a great pick. Vegan Tortilla Chips give you that perfect crisp without weighing you down. Whether you enjoy them with a dip or on their own, they’ll help you stick to your healthy eating goals. They’re easy to prepare and simple enough to keep in rotation.
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.

Looking for a dish that’s filling but doesn’t leave you too full? Vegetable Casserole is a great option, offering a meal that won’t slow you down. It’s a great way to load up on vegetables while keeping things light. With simple ingredients, it’s an easy meal to prep and enjoy. It’s the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel effortless.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

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’re craving potatoes but don’t want the heaviness, try this twist. Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes are crispy and light, making them a perfect snack or side dish. They give you that crunch without leaving you sluggish. These potatoes are perfect for anyone looking to keep things simple yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Yellow Lentil Dal

Sometimes you need a meal that’s packed with protein and flavor, without being too filling. Yellow Lentil Dal gives you just that, offering a hearty option that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish. It’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick, nutritious meal. This dish is a great way to stay on track with your healthy eating habits.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

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.

When you want something simple and light, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are a great choice. These crispy wedges are easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving alongside a meal. They’re light enough to enjoy without feeling overstuffed. It’s an easy way to add a healthy side to your routine.
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.

If you want something that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these are it. Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are a great plant-based snack or side dish. They come together quickly and offer a light, protein-packed option. Whether you dip them or eat them plain, they’re sure to keep you full without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty but won’t weigh you down, Baked Mushroom Rice is a solid choice. It’s rich in texture, yet light enough to feel good after eating. The mushrooms give the rice a savory touch that complements any meal. It’s a great side dish to add variety to your healthy eating routine.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

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.

Simple and always fulfilling, Roasted Potatoes never disappoint. They’re crispy and golden on the outside, with a light interior that won’t leave you feeling stuffed. You can pair them with just about anything, making them a versatile side dish. These potatoes are a great way to get a fulfilling bite without overdoing it.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

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.

When you need a protein-packed option that won’t leave you feeling heavy, Baked Tofu is the way to go. It’s easy to make and adds a nice texture to any meal. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with veggies, it’s a light yet filling option. This dish helps keep your meals balanced without overloading you.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

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.

For something light yet hearty, Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad offers the best of both worlds. The sweetness of the potatoes and the protein-packed chickpeas make a great combo. It’s a simple salad that’s easy to prepare but won’t leave you hungry. This dish keeps you on track with healthy eating while being satisfying and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Craving something creamy but don’t want to feel heavy? Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe gives you the perfect balance. It’s smooth and rich, but it won’t slow you down. Perfect for dipping or drizzling, it’s a simple way to enjoy a vegan treat without any guilt.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

If you want a refreshing, light side, Blood Orange and Fennel Salad fits the bill. The citrus gives it a nice zing, and the fennel adds crunch without feeling heavy. It’s a simple salad that’s easy to make and a great addition to any meal. This dish keeps things light and healthy while still being fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

When you need something cozy but not too filling, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a perfect pick. It’s a light soup with rich tomato flavors that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. The fresh basil adds a nice touch to the classic recipe. This soup is perfect for a comforting meal that still supports your healthy eating goals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Vegan Pasta Primavera

Vegan Pasta Primavera is the perfect combination of fresh veggies and pasta without weighing you down. The vegetables bring a nice crunch while the pasta adds a bit of comfort. This dish is filling, but light enough to keep you going without a food coma. It’s a simple, flavorful way to stick to a healthy routine.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera