25 Vegan Sides That Are The Perfect Sidekick To Any Main Dish

Looking to elevate your meals with the perfect vegan side dish? Whether you’re hosting a dinner, planning your weekly meals, or just exploring new culinary adventures, having a versatile and delicious side dish can make all the difference. These 25 vegan sides are not only delightful but also the perfect companions to any main dish, adding color, texture, and flavor to your table. Let’s explore a world of plant-based possibilities!

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and creamy delight. The subtle sweetness of roasted garlic adds depth to smooth, buttery potatoes.
Perfect for any occasion, this side dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering a rich texture that pairs beautifully with hearty main courses.
Easily customizable with herbs and spices, these mashed potatoes can be tailored to your taste.

2. Crispy Baked Kale Chips

Crispy baked kale chips are a crunchy, nutritious snack or side dish. Drizzled with olive oil and lightly salted, they offer a satisfying crunch.
Easy to prepare, kale chips are an excellent way to enjoy leafy greens.
Their light, airy texture makes them a wonderful complement to heavier main dishes.

3. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

Quinoa and black bean salad is a protein-packed, colorful dish. Combining fluffy quinoa with hearty black beans creates a nourishing base.
Add a medley of colorful veggies and a zesty lime dressing, and you have a refreshing side.
This salad is both filling and light, perfect for balancing richer main dishes.

4. Grilled Corn with Lime and Chili

Grilled corn with lime and chili is a zesty, flavorful treat. The sweet, juicy corn kernels are perfectly charred on the grill.
A squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chili powder add a tangy, spicy kick.
Simple yet effective, this side dish brings a burst of flavor to any meal.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

Stuffed bell peppers with rice are a hearty and colorful addition to any table. Filled with a savory blend of rice, beans, and spices, they offer a complete nutritional balance.
These peppers can be customized with various vegetables and herbs to suit your taste.
Baked to perfection, they are both satisfying and visually appealing.

6. Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli

Sweet potato fries with spicy aioli are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These fries are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with natural sweetness.
The accompanying spicy aioli adds a creamy, tangy kick that complements the fries perfectly.
Ideal for casual dinners, this side dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors.

7. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Sautéed Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a sophisticated side dish. The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts is elevated by a sweet, tangy balsamic reduction.
Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture.
This elegant side pairs well with both traditional and contemporary main dishes.

8. Herbed Couscous with Lemon Zest

Herbed couscous with lemon zest is a light and refreshing side dish. Fluffy couscous is infused with fragrant herbs and the zing of fresh lemon zest.
This simple yet elegant dish brightens up any meal, providing a burst of flavor without overwhelming the palate.
It’s a versatile choice that complements a variety of main courses.

9. Caramelized Maple Glazed Carrots

Caramelized maple glazed carrots are a sweet and savory delight. The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by a rich maple glaze, creating a beautifully caramelized exterior.
Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, while black sesame seeds provide a hint of nuttiness.
These carrots are an elegant accompaniment to any main dish, offering a touch of sweetness.

10. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Spicy roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, protein-packed snack or side. Coated in olive oil and spices, they transform into crispy delights.
The bold flavors of paprika and cumin add a spicy kick that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect for adding texture to salads or enjoying on their own, they offer versatility and flavor.

11. Warm Lentil and Spinach Stew

Warm lentil and spinach stew is a comforting, hearty dish. Lentils provide a rich source of protein, while spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
This stew is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a satisfying blend of flavors.
Perfect for chilly days, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a complete meal.

12. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto are a fresh, light alternative to traditional pasta. Spiralized zucchini is tossed with a flavorful basil pesto.
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while pine nuts provide a nutty crunch.
This dish is perfect for summer meals, offering a refreshing twist on a classic pasta dish.

13. Asian-Inspired Sesame Cucumber Salad

Asian-inspired sesame cucumber salad is a refreshing, light side dish. Crisp cucumber slices are tossed in a tangy soy dressing with a hint of sesame oil.
Sesame seeds add texture and a nutty flavor, enhancing the salad’s complexity.
This simple dish is a perfect palate cleanser, balancing the richness of heavier mains.

14. Cauliflower Rice with Turmeric

Cauliflower rice with turmeric is a colorful, low-carb side. Grated cauliflower is sautéed with turmeric, infusing it with a warm, earthy color and flavor.
Cilantro adds freshness, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish.
This versatile side is an excellent alternative to traditional rice, offering both nutrition and flavor.

15. Crispy Tofu Bites with Sweet Chili Sauce

Crispy tofu bites with sweet chili sauce are an addictive, protein-rich side. Tofu is seasoned and baked to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior.
The sweet chili sauce adds a tangy, spicy contrast that enhances the tofu’s subtle flavors.
These bites are perfect for dipping and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

16. Garlic and Herb Roasted Mushrooms

Garlic and herb roasted mushrooms are a savory, aromatic side dish. Mushrooms are tossed with garlic, herbs, and olive oil before roasting to perfection.
The result is a tender, flavorful dish with a rich, umami taste.
These mushrooms complement a wide range of main dishes, adding depth and earthiness to your meal.

17. Spiralized Carrot Salad with Ginger Dressing

Spiralized carrot salad with ginger dressing offers a fresh, zesty flavor. Spiralized carrots provide a crunchy base that’s both visually appealing and nutritious.
The ginger dressing adds a spicy, aromatic touch, while sesame seeds contribute a nutty crunch.
This salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering brightness and flavor.

18. Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad

Apple and walnut spinach salad is a refreshing, crunchy side. Fresh spinach leaves are tossed with crisp apple slices and toasted walnuts.
A light vinaigrette ties the flavors together, while pomegranate seeds add a burst of sweetness.
This salad is a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and adds a refreshing touch to any meal.

19. Baked Plantain Chips with Guacamole

Baked plantain chips with guacamole are a tropical, crunchy delight. Sliced plantains are baked to golden perfection, creating crispy, savory chips.
Paired with creamy, tangy guacamole, they offer a perfect balance of flavors.
This side dish is ideal for snacking or as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite dishes.

20. Mediterranean Couscous with Olives and Tomatoes

Mediterranean couscous with olives and tomatoes is a flavor-packed, colorful side dish. Fluffy couscous is combined with briny olives and juicy cherry tomatoes.
Fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil enhance the Mediterranean flavors, creating a delightful blend.
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, offering a taste of sunshine.

21. Lemon Garlic Asparagus

Lemon garlic asparagus is a light, flavorful side dish. Tender asparagus spears are roasted with olive oil, garlic, and a hint of lemon.
The bright citrus notes complement the earthy asparagus, creating a refreshing taste.
This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

22. Vegan Coleslaw with Tangy Dressing

Vegan coleslaw with tangy dressing is a crisp, vibrant side. Shredded cabbage and carrots are tossed with a tangy, creamy dressing.
The combination of textures and flavors makes this coleslaw a refreshing addition to any meal.
It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a crunchy companion to your favorite dishes.

23. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips

Roasted red pepper hummus with pita chips is a delicious, protein-rich snack or side. The creamy hummus is flavored with roasted red peppers, adding a smoky sweetness.
Paired with crispy pita chips, it’s a satisfying and flavorful treat.
This dish is perfect for entertaining or as a nutritious, tasty side to your meals.

24. Butternut Squash and Cranberry Quinoa

Butternut squash and cranberry quinoa is a warm, seasonal side dish. Roasted butternut squash adds sweetness, while cranberries provide a tart contrast.
Quinoa offers a fluffy, protein-rich base, and fresh sage adds an aromatic touch.
This comforting dish is perfect for fall and winter meals, offering both nutrition and flavor.

25. Chickpea and Avocado Salad

Chickpea and avocado salad is a creamy, satisfying side dish. Chickpeas provide a hearty base, while ripe avocado adds richness and creaminess.
Cherry tomatoes and red onion contribute freshness and a burst of color.
Tossed with lime and cilantro, this salad is refreshing and perfect for adding a touch of flavor to any meal.