Who Said Sides Can’t Be The Best Part 29 Vegan Recipes To Try

No one expects a simple plate of greens or grains to outshine everything else, yet here we are—29 times over. These sides don’t whisper in the background; they absolutely speak up. Call it confidence or just really good timing, but they make the main dish look like it’s just tagging along. It’s okay—stars come in all portions.

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

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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.

If you’re in the mood for flavors of the Caribbean, Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans hits the mark with its comforting mix of simplicity and taste. It brings a great vibe to your plate with a wonderful balance between hearty and mellow. This dish isn’t just a side; it can be the main star, thanks to how filling and delicious it is. Plus, it pairs well with many other dishes, making it incredibly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

With Vegan Minestrone Soup, it’s like getting a warm hug in a bowl, packed with so many different vegetable goodness. It’s a hearty and fulfilling meal that makes you feel cozy and satisfied. This soup is rich and thick enough to be a meal all by itself, but it also complements other dishes wonderfully. Also, the variety of textures makes each spoonful a small adventure for your mouth.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Trust me, Vegan Green Bean Casserole is a side that’s gonna make you wish it were the main course sometimes. The creamy texture and the crunch on top make every bite fulfilling. It’s one of those dishes where everything just blends together so well, comfort food at its finest. This one’s also a crowd-pleaser and easy to bring to potlucks or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

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.

You’ll get hooked on Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes as they have the perfect crispiness on the outside with a soft, tender inside. These potatoes are fun to eat and look fancy, making them great for impressing guests. Not only do they pair well with nearly everything, but they’re also pretty quick and easy to make. They’re a game-changer if you’re looking for some variety in your potato side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

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.

When you’re craving something simple and wholesome, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables come to the rescue with minimal fuss. The mix of textures and mildly sweet flavors is pretty comforting. These veggies can easily be the highlight of your meal or accompany other dishes beautifully. The best part is their simplicity makes them suitable for just about any meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Sweet and hearty, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are pretty perfect for those days when you want something cozy and filling. They get nicely crispy on the edges while staying soft inside. These wedges work great as a snack, side dish, or even a base for a loaded dish. Whether by themselves or with a dip, they’re a fantastic addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Fun and utterly rewarding, Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe brings a pleasing crunch to your meal. They’re light yet crunchy, making them irresistible to munch on. These rings can be a side or a snack, and they’re especially good for gatherings and movie nights. Even better, they’re less greasy than traditional versions, making them a lighter treat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

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.

Sometimes the simplest things are the best, and Roasted Potatoes are the perfect example of that. They’re crispy on the outside with a fluffy inside, making them incredibly moreish. They pair well with almost anything or can be enjoyed on their own as a delicious snack. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you might just find yourself whipping them up regularly.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

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.

Fresh and packed with a bit of heat, Spicy Cucumber Salad adds a lively kick to any meal. The crunch and the spice provide a nice contrast, making each bite interesting. This salad is light yet full of zing, making it perfect as a refreshing side. It’s a wonderful way to add a bit of excitement to an otherwise simple spread.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Cozy and comforting, Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is like a warm hug in food form. It’s got a creamy texture that’s both hearty and rewarding. This dish works perfectly as both a side and a dessert, catering to your sweet and savory cravings simultaneously. It’s a beautiful addition to any table, especially during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Light, crunchy, and refreshing, Easy Vegan Coleslaw is a great companion for any heavy dish. It’s simple and quick to prepare, which means you can whip it up on short notice. This coleslaw adds a pleasing crunch and a fresh contrast to many meals. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to make an appearance at BBQs and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

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.

Bright and colorful, Vegan Pasta Primavera is all about enjoying lots of veggies with your pasta. It’s a great way to make a pasta dish feel light yet comforting. This one is particularly awesome for using up whatever veggies you have on hand, making it incredibly adaptable. You’ll love how it combines the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of veggies.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

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.

Even skeptics will enjoy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole with its creamy texture and a crispy topping. It’s a rich and comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to love. The combination of flavors makes it a standout, even among other casseroles. It’s perfect for holidays or any day you’re in the mood for something warm and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

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.

For those who love a good burrito bowl, Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans can really jazz up your homemade versions. They’re flavorful and hearty enough to be a main protein source in your meal. These beans can be paired with rice, veggies, or stuffed into tacos and burritos. They bring a familiar taste of a favorite chain restaurant right into your home kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Imagine the earthiness of mushrooms blended perfectly in a rice dish, and you’ve got Baked Mushroom Rice. This dish is both filling and flavorful, making it a fantastic base for many meals. The rice soaks up the flavors wonderfully, giving every bite a rich taste. It’s easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for a weekday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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

If you’re up for something with a kick, Gochujang Cabbage Steaks offer a spicy twist on your typical side. These cabbage steaks are hearty and beautifully charred, adding depth to their taste. They serve as a perfect companion for many dishes or can stand alone as a unique and exciting main. The best part is they bring a bold flavor without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

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.

For something fresh and filling, Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad delivers both in taste and texture. The sweetness of the potato against the hearty chickpeas provides a wonderful balance. This salad is pleasing enough to be a main dish but works perfectly as a side too. It’s a great way to enjoy the simple goodness of these ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

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.

Comfort food lovers, you’ll really enjoy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole since it combines all the good stuff in one dish. The creaminess and the slight crunch of broccoli make a perfect pairing. This casserole is so enjoyable it might even overshadow your main course. Plus, it’s an easy way to get some greens into your meal without feeling like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Harvest Salad

Packed with a beautiful range of textures, Harvest Salad brings together a variety of ingredients in a balanced, wholesome way. It’s vibrant and exciting, making it more than just a regular side salad. The different elements in the salad complement each other beautifully, adding layers of flavor. It will add a fresh and colorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Seriously, Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe can change your snack game with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s versatile enough to be used as a dip, a sauce for entrees, or even a spread. The richness and depth of flavor make it a fantastic addition to nachos, burritos, or just about anything you want to add a cheesy note to. You might just find yourself making it on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

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.

For a nostalgic trip back to childhood favorites, Vegan Tater Tot Casserole brings a wonderful mix of textures and heartiness. The tater tots on top get nice and crispy while the inside stays creamy and comforting. This dish is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or just as a cozy night-in meal. It’s fun, filling, and definitely a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

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.

When you’re craving some good old comfort food, Vegan Mac and Cheese delivers big time. Creamy, rich, and utterly delicious, it doesn’t hold back on flavor. This variation is just as indulgent as its dairy counterpart, and perhaps even more rewarding knowing it’s plant-based. It’s one of those dishes that proves vegan versions can be just as good, if not better.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

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

Morning meals get a boost with Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes, especially when you want something a bit indulgent. They’re wonderfully crispy on the outside yet soft inside, making them a great addition to any breakfast plate. These are also great for brunches and are versatile enough to pair with many other dishes. Their ease of preparation makes them a favorite for busy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Crispy Breakfast Potatoes

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking to add a plant-based protein to your meals, Baked Tofu fits the bill perfectly. It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making every bite just right. This tofu works well in a variety of dishes or can be enjoyed on its own. Also, it’s an incredibly easy way to add some substance to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

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.

Light and refreshing with a hint of char, Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad combines the goodness of grilled veggies with your favorite pasta. It’s versatile enough for lunch yet hearty enough for dinner. The grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that you don’t usually get in pasta salads. It’s a simple way to make your pasta salad something special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

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

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes to bring everyone to the table. They’ve got that smooth texture you love and are perfect for soaking up other sauces. These mashed potatoes are a great side for so many meals and never fail to add a bit of comfort to your plate. Making these vegan doesn’t mean compromising on any of that rich, creamy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Homemade Ratatouille

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

For a dish that feels both rustic and sophisticated, Homemade Ratatouille brings a medley of veggies cooked to perfection. It’s both simple and flavorful, letting the veggies shine. This dish pairs beautifully with a range of other foods or stands well on its own. Making ratatouille at home means you can enjoy a classic in a straightforward and delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Bright and refreshing, Blood Orange and Fennel Salad adds a burst of flavor and color to your meal. The slightly sweet and tangy oranges complement the unique taste of fennel beautifully. This salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate, making it an elegant addition to any meal. It’s perfect when you want something light, refreshing, and different.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Comfort in a bowl comes easily with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, featuring the rich depth of roasted tomatoes. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own or can pair well with a nice bread. The flavors meld together beautifully in this soup, creating something both simple and sophisticated. It’s a simple pleasure that’s easy to prepare but leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup