19 Veggie Recipes That Got More Praise Than the Meat
When it comes to dinner, vegetables can sometimes take center stage. These 19 veggie recipes are packed with flavor, making it easy for people to forget about the meat altogether. They are simple, satisfying, and bold enough to be the highlight of any meal. If the side dish receives more compliments than the main course, you know it’s a winner!
Screaming Skillet Green Beans
Screaming skillet green beans take 20 minutes to prepare, featuring fresh green beans, garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes. The beans are crisp-tender with a smoky, citrusy bite. The heat from the pepper adds just the right amount of kick. They’re perfect for those who want a veggie with flavor and attitude.
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans
Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Brown butter garlic mashed potatoes take 40 minutes and combine rich butter with garlic, rosemary, and creamy potatoes. The garlic becomes mellow, infusing the potatoes with savory warmth. It’s rich, buttery, and slightly nutty from the brown butter. This side stands out and leaves everyone asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan
Rubbed kale salad with parmesan takes 15 minutes, mixing kale, lemon, olive oil, and parmesan for a crisp, fresh bite. The kale softens slightly, making it easier to chew while keeping its texture. The parmesan adds a sharp, salty note, and the lemon brightens the dish. It’s a salad that’s hearty and refreshing at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan
Greek Quinoa Salad
Greek quinoa salad takes 30 minutes, blending quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta in a lemony dressing. It’s light, yet filling with a sharp, tangy flavor from the feta and olives. The texture is satisfying with crunchy veggies and fluffy quinoa. It’s a great side or meal prep option that holds up well in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad
Easy Oven Asparagus
Easy oven asparagus takes 20 minutes and uses olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a simple, flavorful side. The asparagus crisps up nicely, keeping its fresh flavor without being tough. It’s tangy and slightly salty, with enough seasoning to make it interesting. A great go-to when you need a quick veggie that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Asparagus
Marinated Brussels Sprouts
Marinated Brussels sprouts take 30 minutes, marinated in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and olive oil. The Brussels sprouts soak up the tangy marinade while keeping their bite. The flavor is savory with a touch of sweetness from the vinegar. They’re a side dish that doesn’t get left behind at the table.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Brussels Sprouts
Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts
Garam masala Brussels sprouts take 30 minutes and combine roasted Brussels sprouts with bold Indian spices. The garam masala gives the dish warmth, while the sprouts stay crispy on the edges. The seasoning is aromatic and complements the natural earthiness of the sprouts. It’s a vibrant twist on a classic vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Oven roasted root vegetables take 45 minutes, featuring a mix of carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and rosemary. The vegetables roast until tender and caramelized, with crispy edges. The flavor is earthy and slightly sweet, perfect for a comforting side. They pair well with almost anything and add color to the table.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Honey Garlic Carrots
Honey garlic carrots take 30 minutes, roasting the carrots with honey, garlic, and a pinch of thyme. The honey caramelizes, giving the carrots a rich, golden color. The garlic adds depth, and the thyme gives it a fragrant touch. They’re simple but flavorful, with just the right balance of sweet and savory.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Carrots
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
Roasted honey glazed carrots take 35 minutes and combine tender roasted carrots with a sweet honey glaze. The glaze is sticky and fragrant, coating the carrots in a smooth, sweet layer. The flavor is balanced with a slight tang from the honey. It’s a side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Garlicky green beans with fried onions take 25 minutes and feature fresh green beans sautéed with garlic and topped with crispy fried onions. The garlic gives it a punch, and the fried onions add crunch and richness. The green beans stay crisp-tender, making the dish light yet satisfying. It’s a side that complements both casual and fancy meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes take 35 minutes, using butter, cream, and a hint of garlic for a smooth, comforting dish. The potatoes are whipped until soft and fluffy, with a rich texture. The flavor is mild but creamy, perfect for pairing with almost anything. It’s the ultimate side that’s always in demand.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts take 30 minutes and are roasted with a tangy balsamic glaze. The glaze reduces and caramelizes, adding a sweet and savory finish. The Brussels sprouts stay crisp on the outside while tender inside. It’s a simple, elegant side that makes vegetables the star.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Veggie Couscous Salad
Veggie couscous salad takes 25 minutes and features couscous mixed with colorful vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. The couscous is light and fluffy, while the veggies add crunch and freshness. The lemony dressing brings it all together with just enough zip. It’s a great make-ahead dish for easy meals or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta
Roasted Brussels sprouts with almonds and feta take 35 minutes, combining roasted sprouts with toasted almonds and creamy feta. The almonds add crunch, while the feta gives the dish richness. The Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender inside. It’s a side dish that’s bold and satisfying without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta
Zucchini Noodle Salad
Zucchini noodle salad takes 20 minutes, using spiralized zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The noodles are crunchy and fresh, with a slight bite that makes them interesting. The tomatoes add a pop of sweetness, and the dressing gives a sharp finish. It’s a refreshing side that feels light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad
Worcestershire Green Beans
Worcestershire green beans take 15 minutes and bring together green beans with Worcestershire sauce, butter, and garlic. The green beans are tender-crisp with a deep, savory flavor from the sauce. The butter adds richness, and the garlic gives it a punch. This side packs a lot of flavor in a short time.
Get the Recipe: Worcestershire Green Beans
Loaded Cauliflower Mash
Loaded cauliflower mash takes 40 minutes and swaps potatoes for cauliflower without sacrificing creaminess. It includes butter, cream cheese, and green onions, adding richness without the carbs. The texture is smooth and velvety, with a touch of sharpness from the cream cheese. It’s a great low-carb alternative that still satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cauliflower Mash
Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices
Brown sugar baked sweet potato slices take 40 minutes, roasting the sweet potatoes with butter and brown sugar. The slices turn tender and caramelized, with crispy edges. The sweetness from the brown sugar deepens while the butter adds richness. They’re simple, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices