Who Needs A Main Dish When 29 Vegan Sides Are This Good

When the sides bring this much flavor to the table, nobody’s asking about the main dish anymore because these 29 vegan creations steal every ounce of attention. Each plate packs enough punch to make the idea of a centerpiece feel like extra noise no one asked for. People will be piling their plates high and pretending they didn’t already go back for thirds. Honestly, a second table just for the sides might be necessary.

Cauliflower Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Homemade Ratatouille

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

A comforting mix of slow-cooked veggies makes Homemade Ratatouille a hearty option, perfect for scooping onto any plate. It’s the kind of side that feels warm and filling without stealing the spotlight. Serve it with simplicity or pair it with bread for something extra. You’ll find it’s as versatile as it is wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Crunchiness takes center stage with Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip, adding variety to any meal. These fries bring an addictive mix of texture without the need for heavy ingredients. The included dip rounds it out into something easy yet enjoyable. It’s a side you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

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.

When Roasted Potatoes hit the table, they’re a crowd favorite no matter what else is cooking. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re everything you want in a simple side dish. It’s the perfect balance for piling high alongside bigger meals. Their neutrality makes them a go-to for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Warm, earthy flavors shine in Baked Mushroom Rice, combining softness with a bit of depth in every bite. This dish delivers both familiar comfort and richness without needing anything flashy. You can serve it alone or next to something larger—it works either way. It’s proof simplicity can be rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

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 slices meet a bold kick in Spicy Cucumber Salad, offering something fresh yet lively for your plate. It creates balance when paired with heavier dishes, acting like a palate refresher. Beyond meals, you’ll find yourself snacking on this side. It’s lightweight and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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

Smooth and rich, Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is exactly what you’d want to dip bread into or enjoy with crackers. It fits perfectly as a starter or side without being overwhelming. The roasted flavor gives it a depth you might not expect. Perfect for cozying up, meal prep, or quick dinner nights.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Breaded Mushrooms

Golden bites of crispiness define Breaded Mushrooms, offering a texture contrast that’s hard to resist. They’re great for dipping or eating straight from the plate as-is. Their lightly crunchy surface makes them both fun and fulfilling without being heavy. You’ll find they disappear fast from the table.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

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.

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are a great choice for dipping and snacking, packing a crunch that everyone loves. They’re light yet filling, perfect as a side or something to munch casually. With a simple coating, they manage to feel indulgent without overdoing it. It’s an easy, reliable addition to any lineup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings

It brings a pleasing crunch that pairs beautifully with almost anything on the menu. Easy to grab and bite-sized, they’re a quick win at the dinner table. Even better, Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings are guilt-free thanks to their light, air-fried texture. Add them as a complement or enjoy them alone.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings

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.

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole blends soft textures and bold flavors for a side that stands out. It’s rich enough to feel substantial but mild enough to complement other dishes. This casserole doesn’t need much to make an impression—it shines with simplicity. Perfect as comfort food or for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Vibrant flavors combine in Blood Orange and Fennel Salad, giving a refreshing lift to your meal. This simple mix feels light but still offers plenty of personality to stand out. It’s ideal for breaking up heavier dishes with its crisp bite. You’ll love it as part of any table spread.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

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

Golden and crunchy, Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes are the kind of side everyone enjoys, no matter the meal. Perfect for mornings or evenings, they’re an easy go-to that works with almost anything you’re serving. They’re hearty without being too much. Just a solid addition to any lineup, really.
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.

Creamy, comforting, and ready for sharing, Vegan Mac and Cheese serves up everything people want in comfort food. It’s smooth but hearty, making it a great pair for just about any main meal. Whether it’s served casually or dressed up, it hits all the right notes. The balance makes it a fan favorite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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.

Crispy layers meet rich flavors in Vegan Tater Tot Casserole, making it a fun and hearty side. It’s easy to enjoy thanks to its texture and balance, offering something for everyone at the table. Perfect for gatherings or simpler meals, it quickly becomes a center-of-the-table star. A side with personality.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Easy Vegan Coleslaw adds crunch and a nice bite to your plate, giving refreshing contrast to heavier meals. It’s a quick and simple way to round out lunch or dinner without stealing the spotlight. You can enjoy it alongside just about anything, and it still feels light and easy on its own.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

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.

This balances mild flavors with a soft, comforting texture. Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole works equally well on quiet nights or alongside bigger dishes for celebrations. The broccoli brings in freshness while the rice keeps it filling without being overwhelming. It’s homey and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

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.

A warm, balanced pairing makes Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad a filling addition to your mealtime. Soft textures meet a bit of crunch, adding variety to any plate. It’s a dish that works just as well served cold or warm. Perfect for feeling full without leaning on heavier, processed sides.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

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.

Smooth and filling, Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans feel hearty without overshadowing whatever they’re paired with. They’re great for bowls, wraps, or adding some depth to a simple plate. Strong enough to stand alone but make the perfect complement to other dishes. Easy, versatile, and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

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.

Fresh and complementary, Easy Cilantro Lime Rice is an easy side that fits almost any plate. It’s not complicated but helps tie meals together with its bright flavor. Whether you’re going simple or mixing it into something heavier, it works perfectly with minimal effort. Add it to anything, and you’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Creamy textures and green bean freshness meld together in Vegan Green Bean Casserole, making it a holiday-worthy favorite. It’s light but still manages to be filling, so it fits right next to most mains. Easy to scoop and serve for anyone grabbing seconds. You’ll quickly see why it’s often on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole offers a rich, balanced option for pairing with just about anything. Its soft texture works like a cozy addition alongside heavier or more savory meals. You’ll find it’s loved both for gatherings and quieter meals. It’s a universal favorite for its simplicity.
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.

Crunchy and simple, Vegan Tortilla Chips are perfect for pairing with dips or adding texture to plates. Their light nature makes them an easy match for spreads, snacks, or fuller meals. They don’t overdo it, which makes them endlessly likable. You’ll reach for them just as much during snacking as meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Yellow Lentil Dal

Filling but not too heavy, Yellow Lentil Dal works equally well next to rice or other simple sides. It’s warm and comforting, something you’ll enjoy spooning onto your plate. Its softness keeps it versatile, so it doesn’t overwhelm other elements at mealtime. Great for adding substance without complexity.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

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.

Fun in presentation and crisp in each bite, Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes break up the monotony of traditional potato dishes. They’re a creative way to serve something familiar but slightly different. You get the satisfaction of crunch with a layered look. Easy to enjoy every time they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Vegetable Casserole

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

A mix of chunky veggies comes together in Vegetable Casserole, giving a filling option without taking over the plate. It’s simple, homey, and works well for larger meals or smaller gatherings. This dish is easy to scoop and serve, keeping everyone fed comfortably. Perfect for variety or portioning easily.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

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

Crisp and light, Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe is quick to eat and fills out your plate without competing with other dishes. It works well as a complement to main courses or as a snack on its own. Its simplicity makes it an easy side to throw together anytime. A good balance of earthy and fresh textures.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus 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.

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans brings warmth and flavor together in one straightforward dish. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own but pairs well with more hearty plates too. Filling yet simple, this side works well for any meal spread. It’s a classic pairing that’s ready for any mealtime combo.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

With soft interiors and gently crispy edges, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges fill that need for a simple yet substantial side. These are easy to grab and pair well with dips or dishes already on the table. You’ll love them for their simplicity and versatility. Perfect for snacking or adding to a full plate.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Cauliflower Nuggets

Pop them straight in your mouth or pair them with a dip—Cauliflower Nuggets are built for munching. They’re crispy and small, making them quick to enjoy in casual or formal settings. Lightweight yet filling enough to keep everyone content without bogging things down. Perfect for sharing across the table.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets