Looking to elevate your vegan Easter celebration with a variety of mouthwatering side dishes? We’ve curated a diverse collection of over 20 simple yet flavorful options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From comforting classics like roasted veggies and creamy mashed potatoes to innovative discoveries like marinated artichoke hearts and spicy edamame, this list has something for every palate.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these easy-to-make vegan side dishes will save the day and leave your guests in awe. And don’t forget to check out our Easter dessert guides to complete your culinary experience!
Vegan Potato Salad
Incorporating the rich flavors of creamy vegan alternatives, this potato salad recipe makes a compelling case for ditching traditional mayo. The dish is elevated by the tender texture of potatoes, the satisfying crunch of celery, and the freshness of herbs. As the perfect accompaniment to outdoor gatherings like picnics and barbecues, this chilled delight provides a refreshing respite from the summer sun.
A judicious blend of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar injects a tangy note that adds depth and complexity to the dish, ultimately making it a crowd-pleasing classic with a plant-based twist.
Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Brussel sprouts are transformed through a simple yet effective process. First, they’re halved and marinated in olive oil, salt, and pepper before being roasted to perfection. The heat brings out the natural sweetness, beautifully complementing their earthy undertones. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and zesty touch, culminating in a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a nutritious boost.
Vegan Mac N Cheese
Imagining a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese without the dairy? Look no further! The Detoxinista’s creative recipe uses cashews and nutritional yeast to craft a velvety sauce that perfectly replicates the savory flavor of cheese. When combined with al dente pasta, this luscious sauce delivers a comforting culinary experience in every bite. For an added layer of texture, the dish is then baked until the top develops a delightful crispy crust.
This vegan mac and cheese is not only a satisfying main course but also a delicious side dish option.
Classic Vegan Coleslaw
This vibrant vegan coleslaw boasts a medley of shredded green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage, creating a visually appealing base. A sweet and tangy vinaigrette replaces the need for dairy, expertly balancing flavors while allowing the vegetables to marinate and soften slightly. The result is a crunchy and refreshing accompaniment that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Vegan Deviled Eggs
Innovative twists on classic party favorites can elevate any gathering to the next level. Take deviled eggs, for instance, which have been reimagined in vegan form using seasoned tofu and turmeric-infused creamy filling. This clever substitution yields a remarkably similar taste profile to the original, complete with ‘yolks’ that boast a rich, velvety texture. To add an extra layer of depth, a sprinkle of smoky paprika is applied as the finishing touch.
The result is a playful and indulgent appetizer that’s sure to delight guests.
Lemon Garlic Asparagus
Fresh asparagus is elevated to new heights when sautéed with pungent garlic and invigorated by a squeeze of lemon juice. The tender spears retain their vibrant green hue and satisfying crunch, thanks to a judicious cooking time that preserves their natural texture. A drizzle of rich olive oil then brings all the flavors together in harmony. This understated yet refined side dish proves an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of main courses.
Oven Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes undergo a transformation when sliced into fry-like strips and tossed with olive oil and a harmonious blend of spices before being roasted to perfection. The outcome is a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior, elevated by the subtle yet effective addition of sea salt that allows their natural sweetness to shine through. This healthier alternative to traditional fries not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nutrient-rich snack option.
Best Vegan Cornbread
With a moist and fluffy texture, this vegan cornbread is reminiscent of a traditional southern classic. By combining plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar, we create a buttermilk-like base that provides a rich and creamy foundation for the bread. A hint of maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness, striking a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. This versatile vegan cornbread is equally at home alongside chili or stews, or enjoyed on its own as a satisfying snack.
Spring Quinoa Salad
Savoring Spring’s Flavors on Quinoa’s CanvasSpring’s symphony of flavors is expertly woven into a harmonious quinoa-based salad, showcasing a medley of seasonal vegetables. The protein-rich canvas provides the perfect backdrop for a symphony of textures and tastes. Crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant herbs are carefully combined with fluffy grains, resulting in a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s equally suited as a main or side course.
Its light yet filling nature makes it an ideal choice for picnics or casual gatherings.
Lightened Up Spring Stuffing
In a refreshing twist on traditional stuffing, spring’s vibrant flavors take center stage. This delightful dish combines the satisfying texture of whole grain bread with the pungency of leeks, the richness of garlic, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. A harmonious blend of herbs adds a depth of flavor and aromatic allure, making this lighter rendition of stuffing a comforting treat that eschews heaviness in favor of bright, spring-inspired notes.
Roasted Spring Vegetables
As spring bursts forth, a vibrant medley of seasonal vegetables – carrots, asparagus, and radishes – takes center stage in our Ahead of Thyme preparation. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while olive oil and fresh herbs infuse each bite with an irresistible blend of flavors. The high heat of the roasting process creates a satisfying caramelization on the veggies’ edges, resulting in a delightful harmony of sweet and savory notes.
This colorful and nutritious side dish is the perfect celebration of spring’s bounty.
Easy Vegan Gravy
Rich, savory, and vegan – that’s the trifecta achieved by this game-changing gravy recipe. By combining vegetable broth with flour to thicken and soy sauce for a depth of flavor, you’ll be surprised at just how close it gets to traditional gravy without relying on animal products. But what really puts this dish over the top is the addition of nutritional yeast, which imparts a cheese-like umami flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Pour this luscious, velvety sauce over mashed potatoes or your favorite main course for an added layer of warmth and taste.
Simple Vegan Dinner Rolls
Indulge in the soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness of these vegan dinner rolls, perfectly finished with a rich, buttery glaze. The simplicity of the yeast dough yields a tender crumb that’s ideal for sopping up sauces or pairing with a dollop of jam. As a centerpiece on any dinner table, these homemade treats bring an inviting warmth to meals and add a touch of elegance to even the most casual gatherings.
Best Vegan Biscuits
Indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of these vegan biscuits, perfectly balancing crisp exteriors with soft, fluffy interiors. By substituting traditional butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, the biscuits rise beautifully in the oven, ready to be devoured on their own or filled with your favorite spreads and toppings. Whether as a side dish at brunch or dinner, these delightful treats are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Transforming creamy mashed potatoes into a vegan delight is as simple as substituting plant-based milk and butter. Begin by boiling the potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them to a luxurious smoothness. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for depth, and if you desire an extra layer of flavor, a hint of garlic can elevate the dish.
As a versatile side, vegan mashed potatoes harmonize beautifully with any type of gravy or main course, making them a satisfying accompaniment to a wide range of meals.
Green Bean Casserole
Embracing the essence of Minimalist Baker’s philosophy, this vegan green bean casserole reimagines the traditional recipe with a fresh spin. By incorporating crisp green beans into a creamy mushroom-based sauce, the dish takes on a rich and indulgent quality without sacrificing its dairy-free credentials. The crowning glory comes in the form of crispy fried onions, which add a satisfying crunch upon baking until golden and bubbly.
This comforting casserole has become a beloved fixture at holiday gatherings and intimate family meals alike.
Spring Pea Salad
In the realm of What’s Gaby Cooking, the essence of spring is distilled into a revitalizing salad that showcases the season’s most vibrant ingredients. A harmonious blend of blanched green peas, radishes, feta cheese, and fragrant mint creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors.
The peas’ natural crunch and radiant color are preserved through gentle blanching, while a subtle drizzle of zesty lemon vinaigrette enhances the overall freshness without overpowering the delicate balance of spring’s bounty.
Marinated Artichoke Hearts
Immersed in a rich tapestry of olive oil, vinegar, and fragrant herbs, the artichoke hearts are transformed into a culinary delight. The harmonious marriage of flavors imparts a tantalizing tanginess, making them an excellent snack or accompaniment to salads, antipasto platters, or any meal seeking a tender and savory boost.
Garlic Herb Mushroom Quinoa
Earthy mushroom goodness is infused into cooked quinoa by sautéing them with pungent garlic and fragrant fresh herbs. As the quinoa absorbs the rich flavors, it transforms into a satisfyingly hearty and aromatic dish that packs a protein punch. This comforting option can easily take center stage as a main course or provide a flavorful contrast as a side, bringing warmth and depth to any meal with its savory undertones.
Spring Orzo Salad
A refreshing springtime treat, this Orzo pasta salad combines the simplicity of fresh vegetables with the brightness of a lemony dressing. The vibrant colors of peas, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes add a delightful texture, while crumbled feta cheese provides a rich and creamy contrast. Whether served warm or chilled, this versatile dish is sure to please.
Sesame Spiced Edamame
In the Ever Green Kitchen, a delightful twist on traditional snacks is born. Young soybeans, or edamame, are carefully steamed to preserve their natural flavor and tender texture. To elevate their taste, a light sprinkling of sea salt adds a touch of savory goodness, while toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty depth. A pinch of chili flakes injects a subtle kick of spice, leaving you wanting more. And the best part?
These succulent edamame are served in their pods, making for an engaging and interactive experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
Spring Caprese Salad
In the realm of culinary innovation, Command Cooking has taken the classic Caprese salad to new heights this spring. By meticulously layering fresh mozzarella with succulent tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves, the dish is elevated to a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The addition of spring greens and a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze adds a depth of complexity, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather gatherings, whether as a satisfying starter or side dish.
