Vegan Sides That’ll Have Everyone Asking For Seconds—29 Recipes

Some side dishes hang out in the background—these 29 are not those. They’re the ones that get passed around more than once and spark whispers like “Who made this?” and “Is there more?” With zero effort to steal the spotlight, they somehow end up stealing the whole table. Nobody’s leaving without asking for the link or snapping a picture of the serving bowl.

Close-up of a plate of rice garnished with chopped herbs and slices of lime. — Easy Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Yellow Lentil Dal

If you’re up for something hearty yet light, consider this dish. It fills you up without weighing you down, making it perfect for a comforting side or a simple main. Yellow Lentil Dal proves you don’t need meat to pack a punch in flavor. It’s a hit at any table, especially for those who appreciate a good, nurturing meal.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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

Smooth, creamy, and utterly fulfilling, this dish redefines a classic comfort food. With Vegan Mashed Potatoes, everyone gets to indulge in the creaminess without any dairy. It’s ideal for family dinners where you want a touch of home-style cooking. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with just about any main dish, vegan or otherwise.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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.

Craving something crunchy? These nuggets are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy, protein-packed treat. Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets come out perfectly crispy, making them an addictive side or snack. They’re especially great for dipping into your favorite sauces.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Breaded Mushrooms

For a touch of gourmet without the fuss, these will impress. Breaded Mushrooms offer a crispy outside with a tender, juicy inside. They perfectly complement any meal, offering a savory flavor that enhances everything around it. Great for those who love a bit of texture in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of soup? Vegan Minestrone Soup is a vibrant, rich dish filled with flavors that meld wonderfully together. It’s not only nourishing but also inviting, perfect for those chilly days or when you need a comforting meal. Plus, it’s packed with healthy goodness, making it a guilt-free option.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is a twist on a traditional favorite, showing how a classic can be turned vegan without losing its charm. Sweet, rich, and comforting, Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is often a star at holiday meals. It’s a dish that convinces with its texture and sweetness. Great for anyone looking to sweeten up dinner time.
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.

Homemade always adds a special touch, especially when it comes to Vegan Tortilla Chips. Crisp, light, and perfect for any gathering, they pair well with a variety of dips. Whether it’s guacamole or salsa, these chips hold their own. It’s an easy way to add a homemade element that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Vegetable Casserole

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

Loaded with goodness, this casserole is as nutritious as it is delicious. Vegetable Casserole packs a variety of flavors, making it a colorful addition to any meal. It’s a robust dish that stands out on any table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be both a main or a side, depending on your mood.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, these wraps make eating fun. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps offer a crisp, fulfilling crunch with every bite. They’re an excellent choice for a light meal or a creative side. Plus, they’re gluten-free, catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

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.

Bursting with freshness, this pasta dish is a celebration of all things veggie. Vegan Pasta Primavera is as colorful as it is tasty. It makes a great side dish or a light main course, perfect for those who prefer something less heavy. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to showcase seasonal vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy texture, giving way to soft, fluffy interiors. That’s what Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes offer. They’re a joy to make and even more wonderful to eat. Ideal for those who appreciate a good crunch and great taste of classic potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

This isn’t your ordinary coleslaw—it’s better. Easy Vegan Coleslaw mixes crunch and tanginess, creating a refreshing side. It’s great for barbecues or as a complement to heavier dishes. Plus, it’s quick to whip up for any occasion. So be sure to make this in batches because it will be finished quick!
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Infused with earthy flavors, this rice dish is a soothing side that’s sure to comfort. Baked Mushroom Rice brings simplicity and depth to the dining table. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet fulfilling. A dependable choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom 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.

Bringing a vibrant touch to your meal, this pasta salad is a win for veggie lovers. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad is packed with color and flavor. It’s light yet fulfilling, making it perfect for lunch, dinner or for any occasion. A great choice for those looking for something different.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

Softly rich and full of rustic charm, this soup is a treat. With Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you get a velvety texture that envelops your palate in warmth. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter to a meal. Anyone seeking comfort in a bowl will find it here.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Harvest Salad

Bursting with seasonal colors and flavors, this salad is a feast for the eyes and the palette. Harvest Salad combines various textures to create a fulfilling eating experience. It’s an excellent choice for a healthy, vibrant side. Plus, it complements a wide range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

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.

Yes, you can still enjoy this classic dish without dairy. Vegan Mac and Cheese is creamy, comforting, and absolutely fulfilling. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for kids and adults alike. This dish proves that vegan options can be just as indulgent as their traditional counterparts.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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 wonderful blend of flavors. — Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Here’s a dish that combines health with indulgence. Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a hearty side that’s sure to be a hit. It blends creaminess with the rich, familiar flavors of broccoli and rice. Ideal for those who want something substantial yet nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Homemade Ratatouille

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

This dish is a beautiful medley of slowly cooked veggies, each slice tender and flavorful. Homemade Ratatouille is not only pleasing to the eye but also to the palate. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the natural flavors of vegetables. Perfect as a stand-alone dish or alongside your favorite protein.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Cauliflower Nuggets

Who knew cauliflower could be so enticing? Cauliflower Nuggets are crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. They’re an excellent vegan alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Perfect for anyone looking to switch up their snack game in a healthy and tasty way.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

It sounds unusual, but it’s incredibly wonderful. Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe offers a unique twist on dessert. It’s rich, chocolatey, and can be sliced up for shared enjoyment. A wonderful conversation starter at any dinner party that everyone will surely love.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Salami Recipe

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

Spicy and bold, these steaks are a flavor-packed adventure. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks are a fantastic way to spice up your meal. They’re great for anyone who loves a bit of heat with their greens. An exciting, tasty and healthy addition to any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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.

Bringing tropical vibes to your dinner table, this dish is a delicious escape. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans are simple to make yet big on flavor. It’s a tasty way to add some zing to your meal lineup. A sure favorite for those who enjoy vibrant dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

This salad is a refreshing break from the usual, with a kick. Spicy Cucumber Salad is cool, crisp, and tingles your palate with a bit of spice. It’s perfect for hot days or as a lively side to balance richer dishes. An excellent choice for spicing things up.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber 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.

This isn’t just another veggie casserole; it’s a flavorful exploration of Brussels sprouts. Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole turns a usually divisive vegetable into a star. It’s creamy and hearty, fulfilling anyone who tries it. Great for those who are looking for a new way to enjoy their veggies.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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

Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish changes the way you think about asparagus. Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe makes for a healthy, crispy side. It pairs excellently with both light and hearty mains. It’s a straightforward way to add some greens to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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.

When you want something slightly sweet and fulfillingly crunchy, reach for this. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are a wonderful side that serves up both flavor and texture. They’re an excellent addition to any meal, providing a wholesome alternative to traditional fries. A great way to keep everyone at the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

Enjoy the familiar flavors of your favorite Chipotle beans, made right at home. Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are robust, flavorful, and perfect for burrito bowls or as a simple side. They’re a practical choice for meal planners. Ideal for anyone who enjoys bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

If you’re looking for a bit of freshness with your rice, this will do the trick. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice is bursting with fresh, citrusy flavors. It’s light yet can hold its own against richer dishes. A perfect companion for a variety of mains, providing a fresh taste to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice