What To Serve With Mashed Potatoes For Vegetarians

Mashed potatoes make a satisfying vegetarian side dish, but what should you serve alongside them? Whether planning a holiday meal or casual family dinner, finding the right mashed potato pairings can ensure a hearty, delicious meatless meal.

This article will explore flavorful vegetarian options to complement creamy, buttery mashed potatoes.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview: Some of the best options to serve with mashed potatoes for vegetarians include roasted vegetables, mushroom gravy, veggie sausage, bean dishes like chili or green beans, and salads with vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables

Root vegetables

Roasting root vegetables is a delicious and healthy way to complement mashed potatoes for vegetarians. Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes can be roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding a nice texture to your meal.

Simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Brussels sprouts or broccoli

Another great option to serve with mashed potatoes for vegetarians is roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli. These vegetables can be roasted with a little olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings to create a flavorful side dish.

The crispy texture and charred edges of roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli pairs well with the creamy mashed potatoes. Plus, these vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, making your meal not only delicious but also nutritious.

Asparagus or cauliflower

If you’re looking for a lighter and more refreshing option to serve with mashed potatoes, consider roasting asparagus or cauliflower. Both of these vegetables can be seasoned with herbs, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil before being roasted until tender.

The vibrant green color of asparagus or the golden brown caramelization of cauliflower will add visual appeal to your plate. Additionally, both asparagus and cauliflower are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for vegetarians.

Zucchini or eggplant

For a Mediterranean twist on your mashed potatoes, consider roasting zucchini or eggplant. These vegetables can be sliced and seasoned with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, before being roasted until they are soft and slightly caramelized.

The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and the smoky flavors of roasted zucchini or eggplant is simply irresistible. Plus, these vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for a balanced vegetarian meal.

For more recipe ideas and inspiration, websites like Allrecipes.com or Foodnetwork.com can provide you with a variety of roasted vegetable recipes that pair well with mashed potatoes. Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to find your perfect combination!

Vegetarian Gravies and Sauces

When it comes to serving mashed potatoes for vegetarians, the right gravy or sauce can take the dish to a whole new level. Here are some delicious options to consider:

Mushroom Gravy

Mushroom gravy is a classic choice that adds a rich and savory flavor to mashed potatoes. It is made by sautéing mushrooms with onions, garlic, and herbs, and then thickening the mixture with vegetable broth and a touch of flour or cornstarch.

The result is a luscious gravy that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes. For a recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing, try this mouthwatering mushroom gravy recipe from Food Network.

Onion or Vegetable Gravy

If you’re looking for a flavorful alternative to mushroom gravy, an onion or vegetable gravy is a fantastic choice. This gravy can be made by caramelizing onions and combining them with vegetable broth, herbs, and spices.

It adds a sweet and savory element to your mashed potatoes that will have everyone asking for seconds. For a quick and easy recipe, check out this delicious onion gravy recipe from The Spruce Eats.

Cheese Sauce

For those who love a cheesy twist, a creamy cheese sauce can elevate mashed potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness. This sauce is typically made by melting cheese with milk or cream, and adding a touch of seasoning.

The result is a smooth and indulgent sauce that pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes. Whether you prefer cheddar, Gruyere, or even blue cheese, there are countless cheese sauce recipes out there to suit your taste. Check out this easy cheese sauce recipe from Allrecipes to get started.

Chili or Stew

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serving mashed potatoes with a vegetarian chili or stew can make for a satisfying meal. These dishes are packed with flavorful ingredients like beans, vegetables, and spices, and provide a hearty and filling accompaniment to creamy mashed potatoes.

Plus, the combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your taste buds. For a delicious vegetarian chili recipe, try this mouthwatering option from Cookie and Kate.

Whichever gravy or sauce you choose to serve with your mashed potatoes, rest assured that it will enhance the overall taste and appeal of the dish. So get creative and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect pairing.

Whether you opt for a rich mushroom gravy, a sweet onion gravy, a cheesy sauce, or a hearty chili or stew, your vegetarian mashed potatoes will be a hit at the dinner table!

Hearty Vegetarian Main Dishes

When it comes to serving mashed potatoes for vegetarians, there are plenty of delicious and filling options to consider. These hearty vegetarian main dishes can complement the creamy texture and savory flavor of mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Lentils or Bean Dish

One great option to pair with mashed potatoes is a flavorful lentil or bean dish. Lentils and beans are not only packed with protein, but they also provide a rich and hearty texture. Consider making a lentil stew or a spicy bean chili to serve alongside your mashed potatoes.

The combination of the creamy potatoes and the robust flavors of the lentils or beans is sure to be a hit.

Veggie Sausage or “Meatballs”

If you’re looking for a more meat-like texture and flavor, veggie sausages or “meatballs” can be a fantastic choice. These plant-based alternatives are often made with a combination of vegetables, grains, and spices, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Top your mashed potatoes with some veggie sausages or “meatballs,” and you’ve got yourself a comforting and delicious meal.

Tofu

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to complement mashed potatoes. Whether you choose to marinate and grill tofu, or sauté it with your favorite seasonings, it can add a protein-rich element to your meal.

Tofu also absorbs flavors well, making it a great option for creating a delicious sauce or glaze to drizzle over your mashed potatoes.

Vegan Roasts

If you’re looking for a more traditional main dish option, consider serving mashed potatoes alongside a vegan roast. These plant-based roasts are often made with a combination of vegetables, grains, and spices, and can be found in many grocery stores.

They provide a hearty and flavorful centerpiece to your meal and pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.

Remember, the key is to choose main dishes that complement the creamy texture and savory flavor of mashed potatoes. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds. Enjoy your vegetarian feast!

Green Salads

When serving mashed potatoes to vegetarians, pairing them with a refreshing green salad is a great way to balance out the meal. Not only do green salads provide a burst of color and freshness, but they also offer a variety of textures and flavors that complement the creamy mashed potatoes.

Spinach Salad

A spinach salad is an excellent choice to serve alongside mashed potatoes. Spinach leaves are packed with nutrients and offer a mild, earthy flavor. Toss the spinach with some sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a delightful combination of sweet and savory.

Kale Caesar Salad

For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, a kale Caesar salad is a wonderful option. Kale has a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with the richness of mashed potatoes. Toss some kale leaves with a homemade Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese for a satisfying and flavorful salad.

Wedge Salad

A classic wedge salad is another fantastic choice to serve alongside mashed potatoes. This salad features a crisp iceberg lettuce wedge topped with diced tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and a creamy dressing.

The crunchy texture and tangy flavors of the wedge salad perfectly complement the smooth and creamy mashed potatoes.

Salad with vinaigrette

If you prefer a lighter and tangier salad option, consider serving a salad with a vinaigrette dressing. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite vinaigrette dressing. The vibrant colors and zesty flavors of this salad will add a refreshing element to your meal.

When choosing the perfect green salad to serve with mashed potatoes, consider the preferences of your guests and the overall flavor profile of your meal. Experiment with different combinations and dressings to find the perfect balance of flavors.

Remember to keep the salad simple and let the fresh ingredients shine. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Mashed potatoes make the perfect base for creative vegetarian meals. Combining them with roasted veggies, vegetarian protein, flavorful sauces, and bright salads results in comfort food at its best. With so many options, there’s no limit to delicious meat-free meals to serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes.