Plant-based doesn’t mean boring. These recipes turn simple vegetables into the highlight of any meal with bold seasoning and creative flair. Even non-vegans will want seconds.

Sauteed-rainbow-chard

Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs.
Sauteed-rainbow-chard. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This 3-ingredient sautéed rainbow chard is a simple, low-carb side dish full of vibrant color and flavor. Quick to prepare, it’s tender, slightly earthy, and perfect alongside any main dish. A healthy, fuss-free addition to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed-rainbow-chard

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

A plate of sweet potato fries with a wooden spoon.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these air fryer sweet potato fries are a deliciously easy snack or side. Perfectly seasoned and ready in minutes, they make a healthier alternative to traditional fries. A kid- and adult-friendly favorite!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style)

Spicy and savory Hunan-style tofu stir-fry on a plate with a pair of silver chopsticks.
Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Hunan tofu features bold, spicy flavors with tofu as the mild base to soak up the sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with vegetables, it’s perfect for a flavorful, satisfying vegan meal. A stir-fry with heat, crunch, and depth in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hunan Tofu Recipe (Stir-fry In Hunan-style)

Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style

Stir-fried cauliflower with mushrooms, dried red chilies, and green onions on a white plate.
Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

This Sichuan-style stir-fry cauliflower balances sweetness, spice, and crisp-tender texture. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish. Bold flavor with minimal effort makes it a versatile favorite.
Get the Recipe: Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style

Roasted maple root vegetables

Roasted carrots, beets and Brussels sprouts on a tinfoil lined pan topped with sesame seeds.
Roasted maple root vegetables. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Roasted root vegetables tossed in maple ginger dressing caramelize beautifully in the oven. Sweet, savory, and earthy, this paleo-friendly side dish adds warmth and comfort to any meal. A colorful, healthy addition to your table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted maple root vegetables

Candied Maple Brussels-gf/v

A clear glass bowl filled with roasted Brussels sprouts and pecans sits on a wooden table, with more on a baking sheet in the background—perfect for those seeking delicious plant-based sides.
Candied Maple Brussels-gf/v. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

These candied Brussels sprouts are sweet, crispy, and kid-approved. Made with just 5 ingredients and no bacon, they’re easy to prepare and packed with flavor. A simple yet impressive side dish for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Candied Maple Brussels-gf/v

Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

Sweet Japanese sweet potatoes roasted in the air fryer.
Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Air fryer Japanese sweet potatoes are simple, sweet, and flavorful with minimal effort. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, they make a perfect side dish or snack. Healthy, colorful, and naturally delicious.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This cilantro lime rice is fluffy, fragrant, and full of fresh, zesty flavor. Perfect as a side for Mexican dishes or bowls, it’s a simple way to elevate any meal. Quick to prepare and bursting with brightness.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version)

A bowl of mixed white and purple rice with a wooden spoon on the side.
Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Korean purple rice, or Heukmi Bap, has a striking purple color and a nutty, earthy flavor. Easy to cook in a rice cooker, it makes a beautiful and nutritious side dish. A unique twist on traditional rice that pairs with many meals.
Get the Recipe: Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version)

Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)

A black bowl filled with vegetables on a table.
Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Bhindi Masala recipe is a flavorful, slime-free okra stir-fry with onions, tomatoes, and spices. Mildly spiced and aromatic, it’s a comforting vegetarian dish. Perfect served with rice or flatbreads for an easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)

Sauteed cabbage with peppers

A plate of mashed potatoes topped with a vegetable stew and garnished with chopped chives sits on a patterned tablecloth—perfect for those seeking delicious vegan side dishes.
Sauteed cabbage with peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Russian-style sautéed cabbage is cooked with smoky onions, tomatoes, and peppers until silky and flavorful. This simple one-pan dish melts in your mouth and makes a perfect side. A classic, comforting recipe that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed cabbage with peppers

Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

These mashed purple sweet potatoes are velvety, colorful, and packed with sweet and savory flavor. A creative take on a classic favorite, they make a beautiful and delicious side dish. Perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Aubergine Curry

Creamy Aubergine Curry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This creamy aubergine (eggplant) curry is rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced with gentle spices. Vegan and gluten-free, it’s hearty enough to serve as a main or side. A satisfying, flavorful dish that warms every bite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Aubergine Curry

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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