Alright, let’s talk sides. You know, those dishes that seem to sit quietly next to your main course, just waiting for their moment to shine? Well, here are 20 vegan sides that are anything but background players. They’re bold, they’re vibrant, and they’ll have you questioning why they’re not the star of the show.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Garlic And Thyme
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their sugars, creating a caramelized, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible. Infuse them with garlic and thyme, and you’ve got a side that balances earthy and sweet perfectly. Its crispy edges are a treat for any palate.
Crispy Baked Tofu Cubes
Press tofu (for 15 to 30 minutes) to remove moisture, then cut it into cubes. Coat with a mixture of cornstarch, olive oil, and soy sauce, then bake for around 25 to 35 minutes. This method creates tofu with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a tender, soft center.
Vegan Mac And Cheese
To make a creamy, dairy-free mac and cheese, blend overnight soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and turmeric to create a smooth cheese-like sauce. Cook your pasta and combine it with the sauce. For extra texture, top with crunchy breadcrumbs.
Quinoa Salad With Lemon And Avocado
Cook quinoa until light and fluffy, then let it cool. Toss with diced avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Add herbs such as cilantro for added flavor. It’s light yet filling, perfect for a summer picnic or as a side-to-grain bowls and roasted vegetables.
Vegan Potato Salad With Dill
Who says you can’t have creamy potato salad on a vegan diet? This version uses plant-based mayo with a dash of Dijon mustard and fresh dill for a twist. The dill adds a fresh aromatic note, giving this salad a refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Garlicky Sauteed Spinach
Heat olive oil, then saute garlic over medium-low heat until fragrant before adding fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, and then season with salt and pepper. This simple, savory side can be served alongside pasta, grains, or grain bowls.
Grilled Corn With Vegan Butter
Brush fresh corn on the cob with vegan butter and a bit of salt, then grill it until lightly charred. Vegan butter melts into the kernels, making each bite juicy. Add a dusting of chili powder or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Vegan Coleslaw
Shred cabbage and carrots, then mix them with a vegan mayo-based dressing. For the dressing, combine vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. The result is a creamy, tangy, and crunchy slaw that’s ideal for picnics or BBQs.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze
Cut Brussels sprouts in half, roast them till crispy, then drizzle with a sweet balsamic glaze. These little veggies transform from bland to badass in the oven, and the glaze? Pure magic. Trust us—these sprouts will convert even the biggest skeptics.
Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
Remove the stems from your mushrooms and stuff them with breadcrumbs, garlic, spinach, and vegan cheese. Pop them in the oven and bake to golden perfection. Serve them up at your next party and watch them disappear fast.
Vegan Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice provides a low-carb, gluten-free base for any meal. Lightly sauteed with olive oil and seasoning, it can take on any flavor profile. Use it as a side to stir-fries or curries—its versatility is adaptable to various flavor profiles. Hence, it is a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Roasted Chickpeas With Paprika
Toss chickpeas in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt, then roast ’em up until they’re crispy and crunchy. These are like little nuggets of heaven. Plus, they’re protein-packed and addictively crispy. Seriously, don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Vegan Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes made with garlic, olive oil, and plant-based milk are rich, creamy, and comforting. The garlic adds an aromatic depth of flavor that transforms this classic into a vegan favorite. A side that pairs perfectly with any plant-based entree.
Zucchini Noodles With Pesto
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a light alternative to pasta. Spiralize your zucchini into noodles, toss with a fresh, creamy pesto made of basil, garlic, and nuts, and bam! You’ve got a refreshing, low-carb side that’s bursting with flavor.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These crunchy sweet potato fries are a healthier substitute for the classic version. Seasoned with parsley, paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of sea salt, they’re baked until golden brown. Lastly, serve them with a vegan aioli for dipping.
Vegan Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a cashew-based dressing make this vegan Caesar salad a must-try. It’s tangy, savory, and perfect for pairing with heavier mains. Top with nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy kick. A fresh, zesty side for any meal or BBQ.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
Grilled veggie skewers are as vibrant as they are tasty. With peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini skewered and grilled, they’re a colorful, healthy side that pairs well with almost any entree. Marinate the veggies for at least 15 minutes in balsamic or herb-infused olive oil for extra flavor.
Vegan Cornbread
Mix up some cornmeal, flour, plant milk, and vegan butter, then bake to golden, fluffy perfection. This cornbread is slightly sweet, a little crumbly, and totally comforting. It’s an ideal side for chili, soups, or even just to snack on with a slathering of vegan butter.
Spicy Guacamole With Tortilla Chips
Mash avocado with a squeeze of lime, a handful of cilantro, and a good kick of jalapeNo for heat. Dip tortilla chips in, and get ready for a creamy, flavorful combination in your mouth. Guac is the ultimate crowd-pleaser and works as a side, dip, or even a taco topping!
Vegan Smashed Potatoes With Chive Cream
Boil small baby potatoes, smash them, and top with a creamy vegan chive cream. These smashed potatoes are creamy, herby, and absolutely decadent. Plus, the cool chive cream adds a layer of flavor that’ll make you forget regular mashed potatoes even exist.
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