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Home » Recipe Collections

22 Simple Yet Stunning Vegetable Sides to Round Out Any Meal

Published: Dec 6, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Vegetable sides are the unsung heroes of any meal, bringing balance, color, and great flavor to the plate. They don’t need to be complicated to make an impact, either. Sometimes, the simplest dishes steal the show, especially when they’re packed with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. Whether you’re throwing together a weeknight dinner or hosting a feast, these veggie sides are perfect for making everything feel a little more special without a lot of extra effort.

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

An image of roasted cabbage steaks on a serving plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted cabbage steaks highlight the natural sweetness of cabbage in just 35 minutes. A quick, flavorful choice to keep veggie sides fresh and interesting.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Asparagus casserole layers tender asparagus with crispy breadcrumbs and cheddar in just 45 minutes. A versatile option for gatherings or easy weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet with lemon slice.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Grilled asparagus uses five ingredients and takes 25 minutes to enhance seasonal asparagus. It’s a great side for summer cookouts or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter.
Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Smothered garlic green beans need only four ingredients to deliver bold flavor. This versatile side pairs seamlessly with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Eggplant Hummus

An image of eggplant hummus drizzled with olive oil on top.
Eggplant Hummus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy eggplant hummus combines roasted eggplant, chickpeas, and tahini for a smooth dip in 15 minutes. A great addition to any meal or a light snack option.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Hummus

Corn in a Cup

Two glasses of Corn in a Cup garnished with lime.
Corn in a Cup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Corn in a cup mixes sweet corn, mayo, cheese, and Tajin in just 15 minutes. A quick, flavorful way to energize your vegetable spread.
Get the Recipe: Corn in a Cup

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat, an Ethiopian dish of spiced collard greens, brings variety to your sides. A bold, flavorful addition to any vegetable-focused meal.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Creamed Spinach

An overhead image of creamy spinach in a pot.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamed spinach with cheese and a hint of spice is ready in 30 minutes. A comforting side that pairs well with a range of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Vegan Stuffing

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan stuffing blends hearty textures and balanced flavors for festive feasts. A standout choice for holiday meals like Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes, roasted with olive oil, oregano, and garlic, come together in an hour. These crispy wedges add brightness to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Turnips with Chive Butter Sauce

Crispy Roasted Turnips with Chive Butter Sauce. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted turnips with buttery chive sauce create a flavorful alternative to classic potatoes. A simple way to add variety to your veggie sides.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Turnips with Chive Butter Sauce

One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

One pot gouda cand cream cheese corn in a bowl.
One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Gouda and cream cheese corn casserole delivers a smooth, rich texture perfect for special occasions. A reliable side that complements holiday classics.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Zucchini casserole with creamy sauce and melted cheese makes a hearty, crowd-pleasing side. It’s a rich addition to festive meals or barbecue spreads.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Maple-roasted rainbow carrots with goat cheese and pomegranate bring color and tang to the table. A flavorful side that makes any meal more vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Close-up of green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese in a black plate.
Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese combine sweet and savory in a fresh twist. A bold pairing for a variety of main courses.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

Cheesy Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cheesy vegetable bake with frozen veggies, breadcrumbs, and cream of mushroom soup is fast and easy. A reliable side for any dinner or special event.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

Mashed Rutabaga with Garlic Herb Butter

Mashed Rutabaga with Garlic Herb Butter. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mashed rutabaga with garlic herb butter is a creamy alternative to mashed potatoes. A simple way to add depth and variety to your vegetable offerings.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Rutabaga with Garlic Herb Butter

White Bean Apple Cabbage Slaw

A white plate with cabbage slaw, sliced apples, and white beans on a metal sheet pan with a beige linen napkin.
White Bean Apple Cabbage Slaw. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Apple cabbage slaw with white beans and apple cider vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness. A refreshing choice for barbecues or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Apple Cabbage Slaw

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

A bowl of Super Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts with balsamic, feta, and pomegranate deliver crispy, tangy flavors effortlessly. An elegant yet simple option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

Air Fryer Parsnips

Air Fryer Parsnips. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Air fryer parsnips turn crispy outside and tender inside, highlighting their natural sweetness. A quick and flavorful addition to your veggie sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parsnips

The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Overhead image of best broccoli salad with creamy dressin on a bowl.
The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Broccoli salad with bacon, cranberries, and creamy dressing offers fresh textures with hearty flavors. A balanced side for pairing with richer main dishes.
Get the Recipe: The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air fryer glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness with minimal prep in just minutes. A versatile side for both busy nights and festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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