I Brought 21 Vegan Cookout Recipes and Nobody Asked for Backup

There was a moment when someone asked, “Who brought the good stuff?” and pointed straight at this lineup. The 21 vegan cookout recipes held the table down like they’d been doing it all summer. No one missed anything, and someone even said they’d skip the usuals next time if this was an option. It’s rare to bring plants and leave people impressed, but here we are.

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Sometimes, a crunchy side dish just needs to do its job without being complicated. Easy Vegan Coleslaw brings that crispy, tangy balance without overpowering everything else. It’s a reliable side that pairs well with burgers or even as a topping on sandwiches. And let’s be real, people will probably ask you what’s in it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Guacamole

Everyone knows this dip, but it’s something else when done right. Guacamole is that creamy, rich staple that’s all about balancing just the right texture and flavor combo. It’s perfect for scooping with chips, adding to tacos, or as a topper for burgers. This one always sneaks onto plates until someone is scraping the bottom of the bowl.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

You know that rice that just hits differently at certain gatherings? Easy Cilantro Lime Rice has that freshness and tang people love in a side dish. It’s simple, light, and works perfectly alongside the heartier dishes you’ll have on your plate. This one fits in everywhere, whether it’s tacos, bowls, or just stacked high next to other mains.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Cabbage Salad

If you’re looking for something that’s light but still brings a little something extra, here it is. Cabbage Salad is crisp, refreshing, and brings a little bite without being too much. It works great as a side or even as a filler in wraps. It’s surprising how something so simple can hold its own at the table.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Forget the kale chips, this is where the crunch meets a little spice. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a bold snack or sharable plate that gets people reaching for seconds. They’ve got all the kick you’d want in wings, minus the chicken. Whether eaten as-is or dipped, they’re a hit waiting to happen.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Cucumber Peanut Salad

There’s nothing complicated about this, but it’s definitely not boring either. Cucumber Peanut Salad brings together crunchy textures with just a little nuttiness. This one’s perfect for when you want a side that’s not overly heavy. Plus, it’s the kind of thing people might side-eye at first before going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Caramelized Onion Hummus

Hummus on its own is solid, but this version takes it up a notch. Caramelized Onion Hummus mixes velvety smoothness with that slightly sweet, layered-on-top goodness. It’s the best for dipping, spreading, or honestly just eating by the spoonful. Bring this, and suddenly, everyone’s asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

If you need something refreshing that also stands out, this checks the box. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad combines juicy and creamy in the least expected way. It’s super hydrating and a great contrast to heavier dishes. Don’t be surprised if people go back for thirds, even if it started with curious skepticism.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Grilled Vegetables

There’s something about those charred edges that always wins people over. Grilled Vegetables are simple, but once done right, everyone keeps piling them onto their plates. They’re versatile enough to mix into other dishes or just eaten straight from the serving plate. Bring this, and it feels like you brought balance to the whole spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Cucumber Tomato Salad

It doesn’t get much fresher than this, but somehow, it still feels like a solid side dish. Cucumber Tomato Salad is all about those crisp bites and natural juices. You can throw it together quickly, but everyone assumes it took more effort than it actually does. It’s just one of those sides that naturally fits every meal.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Copycat Impossible Burger

A cookout without burgers feels like something’s missing, right? Copycat Impossible Burger steps in to bring that hearty, stick-to-your-ribs vibe without involving meat. You can load it with any toppings, and it holds up just like a regular burger. Somehow, it even wins over the skeptics at the table who didn’t expect much.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Vegan Pasta Salad

You’ve seen pasta salads at every gathering, but this one keeps things plant-based and still delivers. Vegan Pasta Salad has that nice balance of textures and flavors you want in a classic side. It’s filling enough to stand on its own or complement whatever else is on the menu. Trust me, this bowl won’t be sitting full by the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Grilled Zucchini

There’s something about perfectly cooked veggies that just hits different. Grilled Zucchini is no exception, offering a simple dish that’s low-key versatile and never boring. It pairs easily with other dishes and makes things more interesting without being complicated. Plus, it’s a smart choice when you want something fresh and straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Pico de Gallo

A fresh salsa is always a good idea, and Pico de Gallo just gets it right every time. It’s punchy yet simple, making it ideal for pairing with chips or piling onto tacos. Whether you’re into snacking or meal-building, this one’s got your back. No extra fuss, just a straight-up way to add something fresh to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Marinara Pizza

Pizza fits into any kind of vibe, and Marinara Pizza keeps it classic without overthinking things. No cheese needed here, it’s straight-up focused on a solid, satisfying base you’ll want to keep eating. You can serve it up as a snack, main dish, or just shareable goodness with others. It’s straightforward but doesn’t skimp on delivering a solid bite.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Pizza

Quinoa Salad

Grain dishes have a certain way of feeling balanced, and Quinoa Salad is a solid choice to keep things easy. It’s light enough to not weigh you down but hearty enough to hold its own at the table. Don’t worry about it being boring, there’s enough going on to keep it interesting. It’s also a no-fuss option when you want something wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free)

Burgers don’t have to be meat to be good, and Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free) proves that point. It’s got enough texture to make each bite interesting without being messy. You’ll love how easy these are to make ahead or stack up for a quick meal. It’s reliable, hearty, and ready to hold its own at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free)

Spicy Cucumber Salad

A little bit of heat combined with cool crunch makes Spicy Cucumber Salad a standout on any table. It keeps things refreshing without being bland and gives you something simple but not boring. Perfect as a side dish, it pairs easily with other plates or stands up on its own. Whatever the occasion, it’s always a good call.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Onion Dip

When you really just want something snackable, Vegan Onion Dip is the one to go for. It’s creamy, dippable goodness that works way too well with veggies, chips, or crackers. This one’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps people coming back for more. It’s guaranteed to be empty before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip

Ultimate Vegan Burger

Burgers that skip the meat don’t skip out on quality, and that’s where Ultimate Vegan Burger shines. This one’s packed just right to hold up to buns, sauces, and toppings without falling apart. Bring these to any gathering, and they’ll quickly become the favorite. It’s proof that choosing plant-based doesn’t mean compromising.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Green Goddess Salad

Green dishes don’t have to be boring, and Green Goddess Salad knows how to make greens shine. Loaded with everything good about eating fresh, it’s got texture, crunch, and balance. You can easily make this your main course or simply share it as a side. It’s a go-to when you want something fresh but layered.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad