Because Great Meals Need Great Sides 29 Vegan Recipes To Try

When talking about great meals, can’t overlook the importance of sides. These are what round out the dining experience, filling the plate with varied flavors and textures. With 29 vegan options to try, there’s no shortage of ways to make every meal stand out. These add that special touch that can turn any dinner from good to unforgettable.

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. — Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

With a sweet twist on a classic dish, Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-try. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes shines, topped with a crunchy, nutty layer that’s hard to resist. It’s a dish that pairs wonderfully with more tasty sides, providing a lovely balance. Perfect for rounding out your meal with a touch of sweetness. Invites you into a world where every bite is a mix of textures and flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Tortilla Chips

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

Snacking gets a healthy, homemade twist with Vegan Tortilla Chips. They’re crispy, crunchy, and perfect for dipping into your favorite salsa or guac. Made with minimal ingredients, they’re a guilt-free snack to accompany any meal. Easy to make in big batches, they’re the ultimate addition to your snack lineup. Essential for those who love a bit of crunch with their munch.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Yellow Lentil Dal

There’s something special about Yellow Lentil Dal with its soothing texture and gentle flavors. It’s a comforting, simple dish that packs in nutrition and taste. Perfect as a side, it also stands strong as a main with some rice or bread. It brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful, making it a staple for any meal plan. A beautiful way to introduce legumes into your diet, beautifully spiced and wonderfully satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

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.

Comfort comes in many forms, but Vegan Tater Tot Casserole is surely one of the best. It’s a fun, crispy topping over a tasty, hearty filling that everyone loves. This dish turns simple ingredients into something spectacular. Great for bringing a smile to the table, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Quick to assemble for those nights when you need an easy yet comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

If you yearn for a side that’s crunchy and guiltless, look no further than Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings. Utilizing an air fryer, these rings get a perfect golden exterior without excess oil. Serve them up at your next meal for a touch that scores on both texture and taste. They’re a stellar partner for burgers or just about any dish that could use a crispy companion.
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.

Enjoy the fusion of flavors that Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans brings to your plate. It’s a combination that’s hearty without being heavy, providing a wholesome complement to any main course. Infusing meals with island-inspired tastes has never been easier. Kick back and devour how well it pairs with an array of vegan dishes, giving them that extra oomph.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

Infuse a bit of variety with Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad, a colorful twist on a classic pasta salad. Packed with grilled goodness, it melds diverse textures for a fulfilling side experience. Let it accompany your meal, adding a medley of taste and color to your dining experience. It’s a robust ensemble that proves both wholesome and invigorating.
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.

Dare to add some heat with Gochujang Cabbage Steaks, where spice meets the char of the grill. Their bold character is sure to become the topic of conversation. Include them in your meal for a dose of Korean-inspired flavor that impresses. Not just a simple veggie, but a side that stands out distinctly amid your vegan fare.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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.

For a hearty side dish, Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole packs a delicious punch. It transforms the humble Brussels sprout into a creamy, indulgent experience. Excellent alongside lighter fare, providing a rich counterpart that’s entirely plant-based. Count on this casserole to pull your meal together beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

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.

Brighten your meal with Easy Cilantro Lime Rice, a side that’s effortlessly refreshing. It’s a must-have alongside dishes where a hint of citrus goes a long way. Its simplicity belies the flavorful punch it brings to your table. Serve it and watch as it becomes a quick favorite for its light and appealing accent.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Turn to Easy Vegan Coleslaw for a crisp and creamy addition that’s always a hit. Its tangy taste is bound to rejuvenate any meal lineup, and its crunch adds the necessary texture contrast. Whisk it together swiftly for a dish that fits right in with a variety of cuisines. Trust it to be the ideal counterpoint to richer vegan options on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Homemade Ratatouille

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

Indulge in the rustic charm that Homemade Ratatouille imparts to your dining experience. This stewed vegetable dish is a showcase of garden staples, intertwined in harmony. It’s comfort food that doubles up as an aesthetic addition to your meal. Relish the way it complements a range of main dishes with its rich, hearty essence.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

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.

Sometimes, only comfort food will do, and Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is just that. It’s creamy, cheesy, and chock-full of broccoli goodness. This casserole is a fantastic way to get everyone excited about eating their greens. Perfect for those who love a gooey, heartwarming side.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF) offer a playful twist on classic flavors, served up in a novel way. These wraps are light and ideal for those looking for a gluten-free option without sacrificing enjoyment. Bursting with fresh flavors, they enliven any meal with their vibrancy. Tuck in and relish the refreshing crunch that perfectly encapsulates the essence of a great side.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

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.

For a tried-and-true classic, Roasted Potatoes are the answer when it comes to rounding out a meal. Their crispy edges and tender centers make for an irresistible texture contrast. They have a simple yet profound way of enhancing vegan dishes with their home-cooked feel. Perfectly seasoned, they’re universally appealing and utterly pleasing as a side.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Step outside the box with a unique dessert idea like the Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe. It’s a confection that’s sure to spark curiosity and conversation. Serve slices as a sweet end to your meal, surprising guests with its delicious look and taste. It’s chocolatey, nutty, and absolutely memorable.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Harvest Salad

Embrace the essence of wholesome eating with Harvest Salad, where each ingredient celebrates nature’s bounty. Dig into the melange of greens, fruits, and a nutty crunch. It’s a fantastic prelude or accompaniment for any meal, bringing a refreshing balance to your table. With every forkful, experience a synergy of natural flavors that’s simple yet intricate.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Bring a classic to the table with Vegan Green Bean Casserole, an essential at any meal needing a green touch. This rich, creamy dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, turning simple ingredients into a star side. It’s testament that classics can be made vegan and still taste fantastic.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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

Simple and always appreciated, Vegan Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side to any main. They’re creamy, fluffy, and can be whipped up in a snap. A light garlic touch gives them just enough kick to be memorable. Serve them up, and watch them disappear; they’re that good.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

When you crave something warm and comforting, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup hits the spot. It’s a hearty soup with a touch of tanginess and warmth from basil. Ideal for those cooler days or when you just need a cozy meal. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, and it’s sure to win everyone over.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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.

Give your dish a restaurant-quality feel with Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. These beans are a robust and aromatic accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal. They add depth and heartiness to your plate, making every bite more enjoyable. Perfect for enhancing your home-cooked meals with that familiar eatery flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Vegetable Casserole

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

To fill your plate with color and nutrients, Vegetable Casserole is the ideal pick. It’s a versatile dish that uses a mix of whatever veggies you have on hand, baked to perfection. Every spoonful is a comforting embrace of flavors and textures. Serves beautifully as a side or a main, adaptable to your meal’s needs. A reliable way to keep meals interesting, healthy, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

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

Kick off the day with something hearty like Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes. They’re just the right kind of crispy to go with your morning favorites. Whether part of a big breakfast or a simple plate, they’re sure to fill you up. Simple yet profoundly gratifying, and ready to fuel your day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

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.

Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of Vegan Mac and Cheese. This dish offers all the creamy goodness you desire without any dairy. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it’s a universal favorite that goes with virtually everything. No one will miss the cheese in this deliciously hearty version.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

When you need a bowl of comfort to warm you up, Vegan Minestrone Soup is the way to go. It’s packed with veggies and flavors that meld beautifully together. A touch of fresh herbs makes it a fragrant addition to your dinner lineup. It pairs well with crusty bread for a foolproof meal combo. Nourishing and fulfilling without weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

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 brings together pasta and vegetables in a delicious way. It’s a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The perfect choice for when you want a meal that’s hearty yet doesn’t feel heavy. Completes your table with a vibrant touch, ensuring everyone gets their veggies in the most delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

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.

Add a splash of color and nutrition to your meal with Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. It combines earthy flavors with a pleasing crunch. Perfect to keep things light and fresh amid richer dishes, it’s a go-to for a balanced meal. Not just pleasing to the eye but also to the palate, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Adding a seasonal twist, Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese combines the comforting classic with the richness of pumpkin. It’s a creamy, dreamy concoction that proves comfort food can be exciting. Ideal for occasions when you’re craving something a bit different. This dish is bound to become a fall favorite, enjoyed by all who taste it.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Add a kick to your meal with a Spicy Cucumber Salad. This dish is a refreshing break from the norm, offering a crisp texture and a fiery bite. It’s the perfect counterpart to more substantial dishes, lighting up your palate. Especially great for those who appreciate a bit of heat with their greens. Simple to put together, yet it packs a significant flavor punch that elevates any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad