15 Side Dishes That Don't Need Meat to Be Amazing

I'm thrilled to share a collection of sensational side dishes that prove you don't need meat to create mouthwatering meals. Whether you're a dedicated vegetarian, experimenting with meatless Mondays, or simply looking to add more variety to your meals, these recipes offer a delightful array of flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone. So, join me as we explore the vibrant world of meatless cooking and discover how these dishes can take center stage on your dining table, adding a delicious and wholesome touch to any meal. Let's dive in and celebrate the beauty of meat-free dining together!

Close-up of a spoon holding creamy mac and cheese garnished with green onions. — Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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Green Beans with Garlic Butter

A plate of green beans tossed with herbs and pine nuts. — Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These green beans are cooked to perfection and tossed in a savory garlic butter sauce. They're quick and easy to prepare, making them a convenient option for any meal. With their vibrant color and delicious flavor, they're sure to be a hit on your dinner table. They pair well with a variety of dishes and are a great way to add some green to your plate without any meat.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans with cherry tomato halves and crumbled feta, served with a fork on a white tablecloth. — Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This refreshing salad combines crisp green beans with juicy tomatoes for a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Tossed in a simple vinaigrette, it's light, fresh, and perfect for any occasion. It comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for potlucks or picnics. With its colorful presentation and delicious taste, it's a fantastic option for a meatless meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background. — Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These smashed potatoes are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they're a quick and easy side dish that's packed with flavor. Whether served as a snack or alongside your favorite meatless entree, they're sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Ratatouille

Close-up of a wooden spoon holding a colorful mix of sautéed vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, and tomato, garnished with chopped herbs. — Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This classic French dish is a colorful and flavorful medley of vegetables that's perfect for a meatless meal. Made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs, it's bursting with fresh and vibrant flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it's a satisfying and nutritious option that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Green Bean Casserole

This green bean casserole is a timeless classic that's always a hit at potlucks and holiday gatherings. Made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, it's a comforting and indulgent side dish. Plus, it's easy to make and can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days. Serve it alongside your favorite meatless entrees for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background. — Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These maple glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they're tender, caramelized, and bursting with flavor. The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the carrots. Whether served alongside a meatless main or as a standalone side dish, they're sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Home Fries

A plate of seasoned roasted potatoes and green bell peppers garnished with parsley. — Air Fryer Home Fries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy home fries are a delicious and satisfying side dish that's perfect for any meal. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They're seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful kick that pairs perfectly with eggs, tofu scrambles, or your favorite meatless entrees. Plus, they're quick and easy to make, making them ideal for busy mornings or lazy brunches.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

A close-up of seasoned potato wedges served with a side of dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy potato wedges are a tasty and satisfying side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they're crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They're seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful kick that pairs perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or your favorite meatless entrees. Plus, they're quick and easy to make, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Zucchini Bruschetta

Slices of zucchini topped with diced tomatoes, basil, grated cheese, and herbs are arranged on a white surface. These recipes from around the world are anything but boring. — Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

This zucchini bruschetta is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic appetizer. Grilled zucchini slices are topped with a savory tomato and herb mixture for a deliciously light and satisfying dish. Whether served as a side dish or appetizer, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These roasted cabbage steaks are a simple yet flavorful side dish that's perfect for any meatless meal. Thick slices of cabbage are roasted until tender and caramelized, then seasoned with herbs and spices for extra flavor. Whether served alongside roasted veggies or your favorite meatless entrees, they're sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, they're quick and easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Vegan Mexican Rice

Bowl of Mexican rice mixed with tomato sauce and garnished with a sprig of cilantro, with a fork inserted into the rice. — Vegan Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This vegan Mexican rice is a flavorful and colorful side dish that's perfect for serving alongside your favorite meatless entrees. Made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, it's bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. Whether served as a side dish or stuffed into burritos or tacos, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Aloo Gobi Masala

A pot of vegetable curry with cauliflower and potatoes, garnished with herbs, served with naan bread. — Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Aloo Gobi Masala offers a delightful blend of potatoes and cauliflower, simmered in aromatic spices. Its comforting flavors and hearty texture make it an excellent addition to any meatless spread. With its vibrant colors and rich taste, it brings warmth to the table, perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's a versatile side dish suitable for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate. — Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts provide a crispy and flavorful option for meatless side dishes. Their tender interior and caramelized exterior make them a crowd-pleaser, even for those not fond of vegetables. With minimal prep and short cooking time, they're a convenient choice for busy days. Their savory taste and crunchy texture complement a wide range of main courses, enhancing any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Close-up of creamy scalloped potatoes topped with melted cheese and garnished with parsley in a baking dish. — Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Easy Scalloped Potatoes present a comforting and indulgent option for meatless dining. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a creamy sauce offer a rich and satisfying dish. With straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients, they're ideal for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Their creamy texture and savory flavor make them a hit at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese delivers a creamy and cheesy side dish perfect for meatless meals. Its effortless preparation and slow cooking method ensure a velvety texture and rich flavor. Whether served as a standalone comfort food or paired with other dishes, it offers a comforting and filling option. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste make it a staple for potlucks or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese