I Was Burnt Out—thankfully, 29 Vegan Sides Recipes Kept It Simple

The days felt long, and the energy just ran out. Cooking full meals seemed too hard, too much. Thankfully, 29 vegan side recipes kept it simple. Each one used fresh ingredients and easy steps. Even small bites felt like a win when everything else felt heavy. These sides brought peace back to the kitchen one plate at a time.

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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Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Some days feel overwhelming, and keeping meals simple can be a lifesaver. Baked Mushroom Rice is one of those dishes that keeps things peaceful in the kitchen. The familiar aroma, paired with easy preparation, makes it a cozy option for even the busiest evenings. Perfectly balanced flavors bring comfort without the fuss. For those burnt-out moments, it’s just what you need.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Cauliflower Nuggets

When life gets chaotic, minimal-effort meals that still deliver are key. Cauliflower Nuggets are a go-to for uncomplicated vegan sides. They’re crispy, hassle-free, and bring a sense of ease to mealtime. You’ll appreciate how quick it is to pull together without sacrificing taste. It’s simplicity that works any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Yellow Lentil Dal

After exhausting days, dishes that feel grounding can make all the difference. Yellow Lentil Dal gives you warm, earthy flavors with minimal prep involved. A comforting bowl that doesn’t try too hard, yet delivers nourishment in a gentle way. It’s that kind of recipe that quietly fits into your routine. Simple, flavorful, and always reliable.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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

There are moments when you just need something effortless and timeless. Crispy Smashed Potatoes meet that need with their straightforward process and comforting crunch. It’s vegan simplicity at its best, giving you mealtime joy without complicating your day. A side dish that feels dependable and familiar. Perfect for when you’re low on energy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Quinoa Salad

Burnout days call for meals that aren’t complicated or draining. Quinoa Salad offers a light and refreshing option that’s quick and easy to prepare. It finds balance between practicality and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for busy moments. A true lifesaver when simplicity needs to shine. No stress, just nourishment made simple.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

Busy days can leave you craving meals that soothe both the soul and the body. Roasted Tomato Basil Soup becomes that effortless choice, blending comfort with practicality. The flavors come together beautifully without needing extra steps or attention. It’s a simple way to enjoy something warm and delicious. Perfect for burnt-out evenings with no frills.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Keeping things straightforward is sometimes all you want after long days. Easy Vegan Coleslaw delivers just that with fresh and simple flavors. It’s not overthought or complicated, making it a breeze to whip up. All it takes is minutes for a side dish that feels grounded and light. A perfect partner to keep everything low-key at mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

There’s beauty in sides that don’t try too hard, especially on draining days. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks bring bold flavors with almost no extra effort. Preparing them feels refreshingly simple but still gives you a flavorful bite. It’s a dish that feels balanced, easy, and ideal for those moments when you just need a break. Minimal work, maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Breaded Mushrooms

Days when you’re burnt out can call for something reliable yet enjoyable. Breaded Mushrooms fit perfectly into that moment with their crispy outside and wholesome inside. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require much brainpower while still delivering on taste. A solid choice for those times when kitchen energy is low. A recipe that’s all comfort, no hassle.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Pico de Gallo

Some days, you just want something quick that still brings life to your meals. Pico de Gallo delivers just that, with its fresh, effortless vibe. It’s the kind of side that’s incredibly easy to pull together and adds a refreshing note without much work. Practical and always a pleasing addition to the table. Ideal for keeping things simple, tasty, and efficient.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Grilled Zucchini

After long days, uncomplicated options are often the best. Grilled Zucchini is one of those go-to recipes that feels simple yet reliable. Easy to prepare and straightforward in flavor, it’s great alongside just about anything. It’s low effort and works beautifully when you need food without the fuss. An easy choice for quick, dependable meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Harvest Salad

When burnout hits, meals that keep things light while being easy are a blessing. Harvest Salad is just that an assembly of flavors that feels fresh without being overthought. It’s simple to make and lets the ingredients shine naturally. A no-stress option for busy days spent looking for quick vegan sides. Perfectly fitting, calm, and easy-going.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

There are times when straightforward recipes are all you can handle, and they work wonders. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes deliver on simplicity with a crunchy, golden finish. No elaborate steps or ingredients needed this side lets you focus on resting while enjoying good food. Ideal for those tiring moments when you just want something easy. All flavor, no extra work.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

On days when meals need to be both easy and adaptable, simple recipes come to the rescue. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps strike a balance by being light, fast to prepare, and versatile. There’s no need for complicated techniques, and they make a perfect vegan side. It’s a recipe that understands busy days and low energy, keeping things delicious and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

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.

Demanding day, some dishes just feel more approachable than others. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges step in as a warm and comforting choice that’s simple to prepare. They’re easy to pop into the oven and deliver without requiring much thought or effort. A great option when every ounce of energy feels precious. No stress required, just tasty bites made simple.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Homemade Ratatouille

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

After a long day when cooking feels like a chore, making Homemade Ratatouille keeps things mellow. It’s all about layering simple flavors that work effortlessly together. Throw it together without overthinking, and you’ll have something warming yet easy. No stress, just wholesome, comforting goodness. It’s a welcome way to slow down when burnout hits.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

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.

Feeling worn down doesn’t have to mean skipping out on wholesome meals. With Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad, it’s a perfect example of keeping things simple and balanced. No over complication just pure, plant-based ease. It comes together naturally without too much fuss, letting you catch a breath. A meal like this makes casual cooking feel possible again.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea 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.

Days when burnout sets in call for effortless recipes that don’t ask too much of you. That’s where Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole fits in perfectly. It’s simple and hearty without overwhelming your time or energy. Everything fits into a single dish, so cleanup is as easy as it gets. Somehow, it just hits the sweet spot of calming yet perfect.
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.

Some meals are just about throwing together whatever you’ve got, and that’s why Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables feels right. It’s about peeling back the fancy and sticking to a mess-free, straightforward approach. The roasting process couldn’t be easier, giving you room to unwind while it cooks. It suits the moments where simplicity matters the most.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Burnout moments don’t need overly complicated desserts when simplicity works best. With Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe, all you need is a straightforward approach to satisfy your need for something sweet. It’s an unexpected mix of fun and ease without the need for fuss. Preparation steps are minimal, leaving you with energy to just enjoy. It’s dessert done differently, without any stress attached.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

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.

Cooking doesn’t have to be a hassle, especially when you’re feeling tapped out. Just whip up some Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets for something vegan and comforting that’s fuss-free. It’s quick, and the air fryer keeps things simple while delivering flavorful bites. No extra effort, just an easy meal that’s ready in no time. Sometimes meals like these are exactly what you need to reset.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

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.

On days when you’re low on energy, keeping it simple feels just right. That’s why making Roasted Potatoes brings some relief it’s easy comfort food without any complicated steps. Let the oven do the work while you take a break. They turn out crispy and tasty, no added stress needed. Some meals just quietly hit the spot without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

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.

For those burned-out days when energy feels scarce, Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole handles it all. It’s easy to put together and gives you a dish that feels warm and filling, without needing much focus. All the elements come together naturally in one hearty recipe. Plus, cleanup stays simple so you can ease back into things. Recipes like this remind you it can be easy to keep plant-based meals accessible.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice 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.

Sometimes simple side dishes make all the difference, especially when energy is low. Preparing Spicy Cucumber Salad feels refreshingly simple and just light enough not to over-complicate things. It’s vibrant in flavor but still fits into a no-stress cooking style. Perfect for those moments when life feels burnt out but you still want to eat mindfully. This recipe keeps your plate interesting without draining you.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

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.

When you need something to throw together fast, Easy Cilantro Lime Rice comes to the rescue. It’s comforting, quick, and pairs well with whatever you’re already throwing together. Low maintenance is the name of the game here, with a recipe that doesn’t demand extra energy. Sometimes keeping things simple just feels better. And with one dish like this, you can lean into vegan meals with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

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.

Burnout days don’t mean compromising on meals; that’s where Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad works brilliantly. It’s a laid-back, veggie packed dish that’s easy to put together. Perfect for keeping things balanced while staying low stress. You get a meal that feels nourishing while bypassing extra effort. It’s an easy vegan option to help you feel grounded again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

On those draining days, cooking doesn’t have to mean extra work, and that’s why Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip hit the mark. Simple steps mean you can relax while still ending up with something snack worthy. The air fryer takes out the hassle while giving you some much needed comfort food. Pairing it with the dip keeps it interesting without complicating the recipe. It’s a breath of fresh air for your cooking routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Vegan Tortilla Chips

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

After tiring days, an uncomplicated snack can feel like the perfect pick me up. Making Vegan Tortilla Chips fits into that idea because it’s straightforward, quick, and hassle-free. You’re left with crunchy bites that come together without too much thought or energy. They’re versatile enough to pair with dips or even just enjoy on their own. Burnout days call for recipes exactly like this.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Vegan Pasta Primavera

Meals on exhausting days need to be simple, and Vegan Pasta Primavera does exactly that. It’s all about keeping the ingredients and steps manageable while making something wholesome. You can mix in the veggies without the recipe ever feeling demanding. It’s lightweight but still leaves you with something balanced on your plate. Perfect for those times when less really is more.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera