I Made 23 Vegan Cookout Recipes Because Dietary Drama Is Real

ByMandy Applegate

Running low on energy doesn’t mean food has to be boring. These 29 options are quick to whip up, require almost no effort, and still earn nods of approval at any table. Perfect for moments when even microwaving feels like a chore, they’re built for busy days and tired brains. Nobody will guess they came from the “I can’t deal right now” section of your brain, but that’s exactly where they belong.

A platter of grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, bell peppers, and red onions, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.
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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.

Simple sides that pair with almost anything are always useful. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice adds a light, fresh flavor to balance heavier dishes. It’s quick to make and works well for both bowls and wraps without feeling overpowering. A dependable side dish that fits naturally into cookout spreads.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Cucumber Peanut Salad

A bowl of chopped cucumber salad mixed with nuts and fresh herbs.
Cucumber Peanut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Crisp textures mixed with a little nuttiness always create something interesting. Cucumber Peanut Salad combines crunch with a touch of richness in every bite. It’s a great side to bring balance to grilled plates or heavier mains. Perfect for adding variety to a cookout table.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No cookout feels complete without adding this to the table. Guacamole is creamy, fresh, and pairs perfectly with chips, wraps, or as a topping for burgers. It’s quick, easy, and loved by everyone, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser. A go-to choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Easy Vegan Coleslaw. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crunchy and creamy come together beautifully in this classic side. Easy Vegan Coleslaw pairs well with sandwiches, burgers, or as a standalone dish. It’s light but holds its own, making it a great option to round out a cookout menu. A quick fix whenever you need something fresh and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free)

Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free). Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Burgers are essential at cookouts, and this twist makes sure no one misses out. Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free) offers a hearty patty packed with texture. It grills up with ease and pairs well with a variety of toppings to customize for everyone. A reliable option for serving plant-based meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea Burger Recipe (Gluten-Free)

Cabbage Salad

Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Colorful sides help brighten any cookout spread. Cabbage Salad offers a crunchy, tangy option that pairs nicely with grilled mains or other salads on the table. It’s light but filling enough to keep everyone grabbing seconds. A quick and easy way to round out the meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Copycat Impossible Burger

Close-up of a burger with a plant-based patty, lettuce, and sauce in a bun.
Copycat Impossible Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic grilling vibes meet a plant-based option here. Copycat Impossible Burger gives you a juicy patty perfect for layering with veggies and condiments. It grills just like a traditional burger, making it a hit with everyone at the party. A crowd favorite for when you need that classic BBQ experience.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

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.

Sweet and savory come together for a satisfying side. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad mixes soft textures with a bit of crunch for a balanced dish. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs easily with other grilled plates. A filling option that adds variety to your cookout table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Caramelized Onion Hummus

Caramelized Onion Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy dips with a bold twist always liven up snack spreads. Caramelized Onion Hummus offers a smooth texture with a subtle sweetness that’s great for veggies or chips. It’s easy to set out and disappears quickly at gatherings. A dependable dip that complements just about any vegan cookout plate.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

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.

Refreshing sides always go over well at outdoor meals. Vegan Pasta Salad combines chewy noodles with colorful veggies for a simple but pleasing mix. It’s light enough to balance heavier dishes while still being flavorful on its own. A longtime favorite for feeding groups easily.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Grilled Zucchini

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

Simple grilled veggies make an excellent addition to any plate. Grilled Zucchini brings a smoky flavor while staying tender, perfect as a side or main dish. It holds up well on the grill and goes with almost any sauce or seasoning. A fast and reliable way to serve vegetables everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Quinoa Salad

Close-up of a quinoa salad with chickpeas, chopped cucumber, parsley, red onion, and a light dressing, with a spoon partially visible.
Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Grain salads are always a hit since they’re easy and filling. Quinoa Salad provides a fluffy base mixed with fresh ingredients to create a great all-in-one dish. It’s simple to prepare ahead and serves well alongside grilled items or wraps. Perfect for those who want something lighter without compromising flavor.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Marinara Pizza

A cooked and sliced marinara pizza.
Marinara Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookouts aren’t just for burgers when you have variety like this. Marinara Pizza brings crispy crusts and flavorful toppings that are robust but still vegan-friendly. It’s easy to slice and serve, making it an excellent option for group meals. A fun alternative for anyone who wants something different.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Pizza

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.

Combining fresh veggies with pasta makes for a hearty side or main. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad mixes light flavors with soft and chewy textures in every bite. It’s a simple dish that pairs well with anything on the grill or stands alone easily. Great for when you need variety that doesn’t take much time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Close-up of baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings coated in orange sauce, scattered on a cooling rack, with a glass jar of sauce beside them. Garnished with chopped herbs.
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Wings don’t have to be all about meat. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings bring bold flavors and a crispy coating that’s perfect for dipping or eating solo. They’re easy to make and loved by everyone, vegan or not, at gatherings. A spicy, shareable snack for adding extra interest to your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

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.

Cool and refreshing with a little heat makes this a standout side. Spicy Cucumber Salad balances light crunch with a hint of spice, making it perfect for warm days. It’s easy to mix together and complements heavier dishes like grilled burgers. A quick option that brings something new to the table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Combining grains and protein in one bowl keeps things simple and efficient. Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu is light but filling and easy to serve for any group. The tofu adds texture and makes it hearty enough to double as a main dish. A complete meal in one dish that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

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.

Smooth dressings bring salads to the next level at cookouts. Green Goddess Salad offers rich, creamy textures balanced by fresh greens for a light but bold plate. It’s colorful and fits into any lineup as a side or appetizer. A tasty way to make your veggies shine on the table.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

Vegan Onion Dip

Vegan Onion Dip. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy dips work well for chips or as a spread on burgers. Vegan Onion Dip adds rich flavors perfect for snacking or building plates at your cookout. It’s easy to set out and disappears quickly because it pairs with almost everything. A simple addition that feels right at any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip

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.

Fresh salsa makes everything on the table feel brighter. Pico de Gallo adds bold, juicy flavors to chips, tacos, or even grilled veggies. It’s simple to mix up and is always a favorite when served fresh. A must-have addition for those who enjoy a bit of kick in their cookout lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

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 savory contrast beautifully in this refreshing option. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad combines juicy texture with a hint of richness for a unique combination. It’s a light dish that offers balance to grilled items or heavier flavors on the table. A standout recipe that looks as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun.
Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Burgers are the centerpiece of any cookout, and this one delivers without compromise. Ultimate Vegan Burger piles layers of flavor into a patty that holds up to grilling. It’s satisfying, customizable, and a hit with both vegans and non-vegans. Perfect for cookout enthusiasts who want the full burger experience.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Grilled Vegetables

A platter of grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, bell peppers, and red onions, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Char makes vegetables irresistible when cooked on the grill. Grilled Vegetables provide smoky, tender bites that fit in as sides or mains on their own. They’re easy to match with dressings, sauces, or dips to complete any plate. A must-serve option for any outdoor meal where simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

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