17 Unforgettable Vegan Sides That Outdo The Mains!
When planning a meal, the main dishes often steal the spotlight, but incorporating vegan side dishes can transform your dining experience. These 17 vegan sides are crafted to be more than just accompaniments; they’re hearty enough to stand on their own. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just looking to mix up your meal plan, these sides offer fresh options.
Vegan Chicken Nuggets
Sometimes you need a side that packs a punch of comfort and feels like a warm hug. Vegan Chicken Nuggets are just that, providing a hearty bite that appeals to both kids and adults alike. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, sure to steal the spotlight from traditional main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets
Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto
Risotto doesn’t have to play second fiddle when it brings together the sweetness of corn and the subtle onion-like taste of leeks. Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto is a dish that stands proud on its own, creamy and rich, making each spoonful a treat. Perfect for when you want something a bit fancy without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto
Egg Rolls
Crispy on the outside with a veggie-packed filling, these Egg Rolls are a must-have for any get-together. They’re a fun way to sneak in some vegetables while not skimping on flavor. Loved for their crunch and versatility, they can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls
Vegetable Casserole
When it’s chilly outside, a Vegetable Casserole can warm up any meal with its comforting layers. This dish is a testament to how hearty and fulfilling plant-based recipes can be. It’s packed with nutrients and can easily take center stage at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole
Spicy Salsa Taquera
Nothing adds a kick to your meal quite like Spicy Salsa Taquera. It’s the perfect combination of heat and depth, transforming any dish it accompanies. Ideal for drizzling over tacos or as a dip, it brings life to any plate. Even the simplest meals can become memorable with a side of this fiery condiment.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Salsa Taquera
Baked Mushroom Rice
Mushroom rice offers a comforting and aromatic side that can effortlessly accompany a variety of dishes. Baked to perfection, it creates a wonderful texture that’s both fluffy and slightly crispy on the top. Baked Mushroom Rice is a versatile dish that proves sides can be just as fulfilling as the main attraction.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice
Crispy Shallots
Crispy Shallots bring a burst of flavor and a wonderful crunch to any dish they garnish. They’re surprisingly easy to enjoy, adding a rich, oniony taste that enhances salads, soups, and more. Perfect for adding a final touch that transforms good dishes into great ones.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots
Vegan Ratatouille
Bringing together a medley of vegetables, Vegan Ratatouille is a colorful side dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It celebrates the simplicity of plant-based ingredients, cooked slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. This side can stand confidently next to any main, offering a lighter option that’s bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille
Yellow Lentil Dal
Yellow Lentil Dal is a comforting bowl of goodness, rich in flavors and textures. Perfect for cold evenings, it pairs beautifully with rice or bread, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It’s a hearty yet gentle reminder of the wonders of simple, nourishing ingredients put together with care.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal
Air Fryer Asparagus
Using an air fryer to make Asparagus results in a side dish that’s not only healthy but packed with texture. It achieves that coveted crispy edge without losing the natural freshness of the vegetable. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s a side that can accompany a wide range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus
Vegan Onion Dip
Vegan Onion Dip is the secret weapon for any host. Surprisingly easy to whip up, it’s a game changer for gatherings, ensuring that guests have something delicious to snack on. It’s one of those rare finds that make people ask for the recipe every single time.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip
Minestrone Soup
For those days when you need a little extra warmth, Minestrone Soup is a perfect choice. It’s a hearty, vegetable-packed dish that can easily serve as a comforting side or a light main course. Each spoonful is a reminder of how satisfying simple, fresh produce can be when combined thoughtfully.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup
Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Tofu Nuggets are a brilliant way to enjoy vegan protein with a crunchy twist. Made in the air fryer, they’re a lighter alternative to traditional fried sides, without compromising on texture or taste. They’re especially great for dipping and can be customized with various seasonings to match your meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Cilantro Lime Rice
Infusing rice with cilantro and lime offers an invigorating side that can brighten any meal. Cilantro Lime Rice is a simple yet effective way to add a burst of freshness to your dinner table. Ideal alongside heavier dishes, it brings balance and a hint of tang that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a classic pairing where the depth of roasted tomatoes meets the freshness of basil. This soup is both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any season. It’s a fantastic way to start a meal or serve alongside a sandwich for a lighter option.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Asparagus and White Bean Risotto
Integrating the subtle flavors of asparagus with the creaminess of white beans, this Asparagus and White Bean Risotto is a hearty side that refuses to be overlooked. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and tastes, proving that vegan food can be just as indulgent as its non-vegan counterparts. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to bring something new and exciting to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto
Vegan Birria Tacos
Birria tacos have taken the world by storm, and this Vegan Birria Tacos version ensures no one misses out on the trend. Filled with rich, spiced flavors, they’re a hit at any meal, capable of standing up to traditional meat options. They bring a festive and vibrant twist to the table, promising not just a meal but an experience.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Birria Tacos
