22 Easy Veggie Recipes That’ll Have Mom Saying “You Slay!”

These veggie-packed recipes weren’t just made for the holiday—they were made to make Mom proud. Whether she’s the type to hover in the kitchen or just pop in for a bite, she’ll appreciate how simple and satisfying these dishes turn out. They’re bright, flavorful, and the kind of thing you’ll want to make again even after Mother’s Day. All 22 bring something to the table that might just earn a “You slay!” from the guest of honor.

Shirazi Salad

This chopped cucumber and tomato salad is crisp, colorful, and ready in minutes. It’s the kind of refreshing side Mom would put next to anything from grilled chicken to rice. The balance of citrus and herbs gives it just enough pop without overcomplicating dinner. It’s proof that sometimes the best things on the table are the simplest.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks with Tahini

A roasted cabbage steak is served on a pink plate. It is topped with a creamy sauce, pumpkin seeds, and chopped green onions. The cabbage is browned and slightly charred at the edges. — Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks with Tahini. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

These cabbage steaks come out crispy on the edges with just the right kick from the seasoning. The creamy tahini drizzle cools things off in the best way, making them feel extra polished without much extra work. It’s a solid veggie moment that looks impressive without the stress. You’ll know it’s a winner when Mom circles back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks with Tahini

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed shells in a cast iron skillet. — Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

These stuffed shells are baked in sauce until bubbly, with spinach tucked in so neatly you barely notice you’re eating greens. It’s hearty but not heavy, and perfect when you’re feeding a group that expects something cozy. Great for potlucks or weekend family dinners that Mom would fully support. Don’t be surprised if they land in the regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Little Gem Salad with Herbs, Maple, Lime, and Sesame

A bowl of salad containing leafy greens, fresh herbs, sliced onions, and black sesame seeds on a light surface. Another dish with similar contents is partially visible to the side. There are scattered herbs around the bowl. — Little Gem Salad with Herbs, Maple, Lime, and Sesame. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

This salad leans sweet, tangy, and crunchy all at once, thanks to a maple-lime dressing and toasted seeds. It’s a fresh choice when the main dish needs something lighter on the side. Moms who love a good salad spread will be all over this one. It tastes like it belongs on a table set with care.
Get the Recipe: Little Gem Salad with Herbs, Maple, Lime, and Sesame

Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad

With chickpeas, spices, and roasted veggies, this salad is both filling and full of character. It keeps well, so it’s great to prep ahead for Mother’s Day brunch or a sunny spring lunch. The textures work beautifully together, and the warm spices give it depth. Serve it in a big bowl and let everyone dig in like it’s tradition.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad

Summer Orzo Salad

Summer orzo pasta salad in a while serving bowl on a whitewashed background next to a bowl of green beans. — Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This chilled pasta salad is tossed with bright herbs, crunchy veg, and a quick vinaigrette. It’s easy to pack, serve, and pair with just about anything from the grill. Mom would call this one “smart planning” for any spring get-together. It’s the side that disappears before the mains are done.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Steamed asparagus and citrusy couscous bring out the best in each other in this fast, spring-ready side. It’s light, colorful, and quick enough to make without a second thought. Mom would definitely give this one a nod of approval on a sunny afternoon. Think Easter brunch energy without the extra dishes.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Cucumber Crispy Rice Salad

A close-up of a dish featuring rice, sliced cucumbers, herbs, and pieces of a pink ingredient, possibly grapefruit. A spoon is lifting a portion from the plate. The background shows a small bowl with a yellow interior. — Cucumber Crispy Rice Salad. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

This dish has crunchy rice, cool cucumbers, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together. It’s perfect for any spread that needs something with a little flair and texture. Serve it cold or room temp—it’s flexible and flavorful either way. And yes, it totally counts as the “fun” salad Mom keeps asking for.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Crispy Rice Salad

Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Two bowls of butternut squash soup on a wooden table. — Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Velvety squash soup gets a cozy upgrade with dumplings that cook right in the pot. It’s hands-off and hearty, with a smooth texture that feels more like a hug than a starter. Mom will love how this checks all the boxes without crowding the stove. Make it once and it might just become your go-to Sunday soup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Creamy and Cheesy Butternut Squash Lasagna with Spinach

A baked dish of zucchini lasagna with a golden-brown cheese topping. A wooden spatula lifts a square piece, revealing layers of zucchini, cheese, and spinach. The casserole dish is partly cut, showing more servings. Garnished with herbs. — Creamy and Cheesy Butternut Squash Lasagna with Spinach. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Layers of pasta, squash, spinach, and cheese make this a showstopper without trying too hard. It’s a perfect choice for a sit-down Mother’s Day meal that still feels relaxed. The ingredients come together in a way that’s rich but not heavy. It’s one of those dishes that says “I made this because you’re important.”
Get the Recipe: Creamy and Cheesy Butternut Squash Lasagna with Spinach

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Thinly sliced sprouts, crunchy nuts, and a bright dressing make this salad more than just a filler. It holds up well for hours, which makes it great for any laid-back lunch or brunch with Mom. It’s green, fresh, and just a little fancy without putting on airs. Definitely the kind of side that earns compliments.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Veggie Couscous Salad

Packed with roasted veggies and fluffy couscous, this side dish feels like something pulled from Mom’s notes on feeding a crowd. It’s filling enough to stand on its own but plays well with others on the table. Quick to prep and even quicker to finish off. Keep this one in your back pocket for last-minute gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad

Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)

Overhead view of olivier salad with two egg halves. — Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Creamy potatoes, peas, and pickles come together in this Eastern European classic. It’s more dressed-up than your average potato salad but just as easy to pull together. Moms who grew up with it or discovered it later will totally get the appeal. Cold, comforting, and somehow always gone first.
Get the Recipe: Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)

Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

This kale salad softens up with a little lemon and oil, then gets topped with shavings of Parmesan. It’s a smart choice when you want something a little more structured than lettuce. Great for make-ahead moments when you’re trying to juggle a full table. Even the “I don’t like kale” folks might be converted.
Get the Recipe: Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board. — Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This chopped chicken salad leans savory and sweet, with BBQ sauce, veggies, and crunchy extras. It’s filling enough to pass as a main but light enough to serve as a side. Works for potlucks, picnics, or Mother’s Day lunches that don’t need to be fussy. Keep the napkins close and the servings generous.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing. — Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crisp cucumbers, spicy gochugaru, and a splash of vinegar make this salad bright and punchy. It’s a fast fix that looks great and pairs well with almost anything on the table. If Mom likes bold flavors, this will be her new favorite. Cool crunch with a little heat never misses.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel

A plate of pasta with mushrooms and sprigs of dill. — Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This baked noodle dish mixes leeks, mushrooms, and egg noodles into a cozy, golden casserole. It’s make-ahead friendly and hits the mark for a spring comfort dish that still feels special. Moms who appreciate tradition will definitely love seeing this on the table. Leftovers won’t stick around long.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel

Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs

Kebabs on a plate with a lemon wedge. — Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These spiced lentil patties are baked or grilled, then served with yogurt or sauce on the side. They bring plenty of flavor without taking over the plate. They also work as a side, a snack, or a plant-based main. Mom would call them clever—and probably ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs

Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

These pockets of squash-filled pasta taste like you put in hours—even if you used store-bought wrappers. A simple butter sauce and herbs finish them off just right. They’re fun to make and even better to share with someone who appreciates the effort. That someone might just be Mom.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Rolled-up lasagna noodles filled with spinach and cheese are easier than a full pan but just as rewarding. They bake quickly and portion out neatly, making them great for brunch or lunch spreads. They feel thoughtful without being over the top. A win for any day that starts with “Let’s do something nice.”
Get the Recipe: Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Greek Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad in a brown bowl, garnished with pita bread. — Greek Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This salad keeps things light and balanced with quinoa, feta, cucumber, and herbs. It’s perfect for serving chilled alongside just about anything. It also doubles as a great lunch box moment later in the week. If you’re hosting Mom, this one’s a must-have.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad

Zucchini Noodle Salad

Spiralized zucchini, tangy dressing, and crunchy toppings come together in this fast and fresh salad. It’s a good way to mix things up from the usual sides and keep things colorful. Easy to prep and pack if you’re taking the party outdoors. Even picky eaters will keep twirling their forks.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad