The rise of vegetarianism has led to a need for more diverse side dishes. Five vegetarian options that are easy to prepare include roasted root vegetables, quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, garlicky green beans, and roasted Brussels sprouts. Roasted root vegetables are an excellent match for different main dishes and can be made by combining mixed root vegetables with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Quinoa salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, and grilled vegetables can be seasoned with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Meanwhile, garlicky green beans can be made by blanching green beans and cooking them with garlic and soy sauce. Lastly, roasted Brussels sprouts are perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious vegetable.

5 Vegetarian Side Dishes Perfect for Any Meal

Introduction

As more and more people are turning to vegetarianism for health or environmental reasons, it’s important to have a variety of side dishes to choose from when preparing a meal. These five vegetarian side dishes are simple to make, delicious, and will complement any main course.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables are a classic side dish that can be served with anything from grilled tofu to roasted chicken. You can use any combination of root vegetables that you like, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 cups mixed root vegetables, peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 F.
2. Toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Stir the vegetables occasionally during roasting to ensure even browning.
5. Serve hot.

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a versatile and nutritious grain that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads. This quinoa salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the quinoa and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
3. Remove the quinoa from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish that can be prepared on the grill or in a grill pan. You can use any vegetables that you like, such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 cups mixed vegetables, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Toss the sliced vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Remove the vegetables from the grill and serve hot.

Garlicky Green Beans

Green beans are a classic side dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. These garlicky green beans are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
3. Drain the green beans and set them aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and oil.
7. Add the soy sauce and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes or until the green beans are heated through.
8. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve hot.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious vegetable that can be roasted to perfection in the oven. They are a great side dish for any meal and are easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 F.
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Stir the Brussels sprouts occasionally during roasting to ensure even browning.
5. Serve hot.

Conclusion

These five vegetarian side dishes are perfect for any meal and are easy to prepare. From roasted root vegetables to garlicky green beans, there is something here for everyone. Try these delicious recipes today and elevate your next meal.