We’re here to take you on an adventure that’s all about those scrumptious vegan side dishes. We’re talking about the kind of sides that aren’t just stuck on the sidelines – they’re ready to steal the show and wow your taste buds.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan veteran or simply looking to explore plant-powered flavors, this list is your passport to a world of deliciousness.
But here’s the twist: It’s not just any collection, it’s the ultimate lineup curated by your fellow vegan enthusiasts.
From roasted veggies that redefine yumminess to creative grain salads that are basically edible art, we’ve got it all in store for you. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and make those taste buds tango!
Who can resist a creamy, velvety scoop of mashed potatoes and gravy? Certainly not us.
This classic side dish is a comfort food heaven for vegans and non-vegans alike. Creamy potatoes, whipped to perfection, and topped with rich, savory vegan gravy – need I say more?
Cooking Tips: Remember to use starchy potatoes like Russets for that fluffy texture, and adding a bit of vegan butter and plant-based milk makes them irresistibly smooth.
Pairs With: A delicious vegan meatloaf or a lentil-based shepherd’s pie.
Craving some heat and spice? Buffalo vegan chicken wings are here to satisfy your taste buds. These plant-based wings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in tangy buffalo sauce.
Cooking Tip: For extra crispiness, give the wings a light coating of cornstarch before baking or air frying.
Pairs With: A cooling avocado ranch dip with celery and carrot sticks.
A meal isn’t complete without a touch of comfort, and that’s where vegan cornbread comes in.
This golden-brown delight boasts the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether served warm with a pat of vegan butter or used to soak up sauces and gravies, this cornbread is a versatile side dish that’s sure to please.
Cooking Tip: For that classic cornbread texture, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined – a few lumps are perfectly okay.
Pairs With: A bowl of vegan chili or a plate of smoky BBQ tofu.
Looking to add a touch of elegance to your table? Veggie croquettes are here to impress.
These crispy and flavorful bites are loaded with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Whether served as an appetizer or a side, they’re bound to be a hit.
Cooking Tip: When shaping the croquettes, dampen your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Potato salad is a picnic and potluck staple, and this vegan potato salad is no exception. Creamy, tangy, and packed with colorful veggies, it’s a side dish that’s light on dairy but heavy on flavor.
Cooking Tip: To keep the potatoes from getting mushy, cook them until they’re just fork-tender, and let them cool slightly before mixing in the dressing.
Pairs With: Vegan burger or seitan-based sandwich.
Craving something with a bit of exotic flair? Check out this crunchy cashew Thai quinoa salad recipe.
This vibrant salad combines quinoa with a medley of crunchy veggies and a zesty Thai-inspired dressing. It’s a fusion of textures and flavors that will take your taste buds on a journey.
Cooking Tip: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Pairs With: A vegan Thai curry or lemongrass tofu stir-fry.
Our final recipe is an ultimate crowd-pleaser: Fresh tomato salsa. This zesty and vibrant salsa is a staple at any gathering and it’s incredibly easy to make.
Tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice – that’s the core of this delectable side.
Cooking Tip: For a milder salsa remove the seeds from the tomatoes before dicing.
Pairs With: Fajitas or a bean and rice burrito.
Conclusion
From vibrant salads to hearty grains, this list has been crafted with passion and a dash of foodie magic. These dishes aren’t just sides; they’re the supporting cast that turns your meal into a gourmet masterpiece.
Here’s to enjoying every bite, discovering new favorites, and diving into a world of vegan culinary delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Popular Food For Vegans?
Tofu is one of the most popular foods for vegans due to its versatility, protein content, and ability to adapt to various cooking methods.
It serves as a valuable meat substitute in vegan recipes and is rich in nutrients like protein, calcium, and iron. While tofu stands out, the vegan diet offers a diverse array of plant-based options beyond just tofu, including legumes, grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.
What Can Vegans Eat For Snacks?
Vegans have a plethora of snack options to choose from. They can enjoy fresh fruits like berries and oranges, raw veggies such as carrot sticks, a variety of nuts, seeds, and nut butter. For a treat, vegans can indulge in dairy-free dark chocolate. This list isn’t extensive, but there are plenty of snacks for vegans to explore and try.
What Is Surprisingly Not Vegan?
Surprisingly non-vegan foods include marshmallows (gelatin), honey (ethical concerns), certain wines (animal-derived fining agents), certain candles (shellac, dairy components), certain breads (animal-derived additives), some salad dressings (dairy or egg-based ingredients), and gummy candies (gelatin).
Vegans should be cautious and read ingredient labels to avoid animal-derived components in unexpected places.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
