Forgot The Main Dish But 27 Vegan Fall Side Recipes Saved Me

ByMandy Applegate

When the main course goes missing, chaos usually follows; unless those 27 vegan fall sides show up. Suddenly, vegan fall recipes become the heroes nobody saw coming, saving dinner with zero drama. They’re the kind of sides that make guests forget what they were supposed to eat first. Honestly, it’s like the universe planned it that way.

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.
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Cauliflower Nuggets

Cauliflower Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Finger foods get everyone snacking before the main meal shows up. Cauliflower Nuggets are extra fun for kids because they’re easy to eat and pair well with dips. Crunchy outsides make them stand out among other sides. Bowls empty quickly whenever they are served. Nuggets always get talked about at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Easy Vegan Coleslaw. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fresh, crisp sides are easy to match with most dishes. Easy Vegan Coleslaw adds a bit of tanginess and crunch that people notice right away. Kids will enjoy the bright color and simple texture. It travels well for lunches and picnics. Coleslaw gets requests from family year-round.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

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.

Potatoes are always welcome when served in a fun shape. Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes catch attention for the unique cut and crunchy edge. They are easy for kids to eat and share with friends. These potatoes pair well with any big meal. Plates clear fast when this side gets put out.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

Spicy flavors add some excitement to the table. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks hit the spot with their bold kick and smoky finish. Cabbage slices stand out with plenty of texture. People ask for seconds before the pan cools. Cabbage becomes popular in these bold steaks.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Breaded Mushrooms

Breaded Mushrooms in a white bowl with a fork.
Breaded Mushrooms. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Mushrooms get more interesting when baked with a crisp coating. Breaded Mushrooms are easy to snack on during parties or family dinners. Kids like eating them with dipping sauces. They fit well on appetizer trays or packed lunches. Crispy mushrooms are usually the first thing gone.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices garnished with chopped herbs on a light-colored plate.
Grilled Zucchini. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Grilled veggies help make any meal a little brighter. Grilled Zucchini brings soft slices with a hint of char that stands out among sides. Kids discover new favorite vegetables after trying these. Zucchini works for both big dinners and quick snacks. This easy side gets more requests each time it’s made.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF). Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lighter bites show up well before or beside bigger dishes. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF) bring a fun crunch that appeals to all ages. Kids can roll up their own wraps and pick their toppings. These wraps work for lunch or as part of a dinner spread. Mexican options like this get rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Green Goddess Salad

A close-up of a plate with bright green guacamole, chopped vegetables, and tortilla chips on the side.
Green Goddess Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Big salads get attention thanks to a swirl of green and creamy dressing. Green Goddess Salad piles up lots of veggies on each plate for big flavor. Kids test new foods thanks to the bright colors. It makes for a healthy side in any setting. Salad like this sticks around for second helpings.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

Homemade Ratatouille

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

Classic sides full of veggies bring a special touch to any meal. Homemade Ratatouille offers layers of flavor in each bite, even for picky eaters. Kids may find new favorites hidden in the slices. This dish is good warm or chilled. Veggie stacks like this go nicely with main courses.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside.
Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Family breakfasts and potlucks always feature something filling like this. Vegan Hashbrown Casserole brings together a crunchy topping and soft insides. Kids scoop out big servings before heading out for the day. Leftovers work well for lunches later. Hashbrown casseroles get requested often.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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

Veggies cooked crisp draw new fans in seconds. Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe puts a bit of crunch into each bite, making asparagus more tempting for kids. Easy to grab and share during group meals. Asparagus holds flavor well this way. Air fryer recipes like this become staples for busy families.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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.

Colorful salads add a fresh touch to any dinner or lunch. Cucumber Tomato Salad gives a simple mix of crunch and juiciness for younger eaters. It’s perfect for picnics or quick meals. Kids mix and match bites easily. Salads packed with veggies come back again and again for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato 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.

Casserole pans bring big flavor to even the smallest veggies. Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole has a creamy base that hides the sprouts and makes them easy for kids to eat. This one reheats well for days of leftovers. It’s good for big family dinners or special occasions. Brussels sprouts get finished fast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout 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.

Rice dishes always help fill plates no matter what is being served. Baked Mushroom Rice comes out soft and earthy, adding depth to your meal. Kids find mushrooms easier to enjoy when mixed with rice. Leftovers never go to waste. Rice sides like this stay popular all week long.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

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.

Sides packed with colors let everyone pick their favorites. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables give a mix of crunch and soft pieces for all ages. Kids like the simple flavors and bright looks. This side works for both small and big groups. Roasted veggies like this are always a hit at tables full of choices.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge.
Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet and fresh salads stand out among heavier dishes. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad brings together juicy bites and mild creaminess for a new take on a classic. Kids keep coming back for more. It serves up easily for parties or potlucks. Salads with fruit get more attention from friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta 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.

Comfortable favorites show up baked to crisp with a bit of sweetness. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are easy to stack, dip, and share around the table. Kids are first to grab these before anything else. Perfect side for busy nights. Wedges don’t last long no matter how many trays are made.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

Sides with a little kick wake up the taste at any dinner. Spicy Cucumber Salad cools down with each bite but comes through with a bit of heat. Kids explore new flavors thanks to this fresh salad. It complements heavier mains. These salads get asked for often once people get a taste.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Yellow Lentil Dal

A bowl of yellow lentil dal with sour cream and a spoon.
Yellow Lentil Dal. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bowls of dal bring soft, warm spoonfuls to the table for sharing. Yellow Lentil Dal fills meals with earthy flavor that works well with bread or rice. Kids try lentils easier in this simple dish. Easy to batch for large gatherings or family dinners. Lentil sides become favorites in no time.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bold salads liven up spreads with sharp, fresh color. Blood Orange and Fennel Salad offers crisp bites mixed with sweet pieces, fun for kids to try. It’s perfect for making platters look festive. Pairs up with heavier sides. Salads like this score compliments wherever they show up.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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

Creamy sides are quick wins for kids and adults every meal. Vegan Mashed Potatoes bring the soft, fluffy texture that everyone expects. Pairs well with gravy or a bit of extra seasoning. Kids pile it high on their plates. Potatoes done vegan don’t miss out on comfort at all.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Harvest Salad

A Harvest Salad with kale, sweet potato wedges, avocado chunks, chickpeas, and pickled red onions, all drizzled with a delectable dressing.
Harvest Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Big bowls with a mix of greens, fruit, and nuts make lunch special. Harvest Salad serves up crunchy bites with pops of sweetness that appeal to all ages. Kids like the different flavors in each forkful. It travels well to events and potlucks. Salads with variety look forward to repeat servings.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright, simple salads add some pop to any meal plan. Pico de Gallo works as a dip or topping and adds freshness to other dishes. Kids spoon it over their plates for a little kick. It is popular at parties and small get-togethers. People finish the bowl before you think about refills.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

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.

One-pan sides keep things simple at gatherings and family meals. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans offer a filling bite that everyone can enjoy. Kids scoop out big portions for dinner. Works well for leftovers or packed lunches. Rice and beans keep family plates full every time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl.
Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Leafy greens look more tempting when prepared with a bit of heat. Sautéed Kale turns soft and easy to eat for even picky kids. It’s fast to make and goes alongside most mains. Kale grows on people after just a few tries. Greens like this are regulars on busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale

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.

Warm pasta makes for a go-to side at group dinners and potlucks. Vegan Mac and Cheese is creamy, smooth, and brings comfort to each plate. Kids scoop extra onto their plates every time. Great option for dairy-free families. Mac and cheese simply never lasts long at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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.

Hearty salads mix big flavors without needing extra effort. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad gives a combo of protein and sweet bites kids love. This salad fits in at dinner or as a stand-alone lunch. Everything can be served warm or cold. Salads like this get plenty of compliments from guests.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

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