Satisfying Vegetarian Side Dishes To Serve With Potatoes

Potatoes are a versatile base for many vegetarian meals. However, eating a potato dish like home fries, baked potatoes, or roasted new potatoes on its own can make for an underwhelming meal. The key is served additional vegetarian sides that add flavor, texture, color and nutrients.

This article explores the best options for rounding out a potato-based meal.

If you’re short on time, here are some top vegetarian dishes to pair with potatoes: grilled veggies like squash, eggplant or portobello mushrooms; salads with vinaigrette; beans, lentils or chickpeas; onions or spinach sauteed in olive oil; veggie tacos or fajitas.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a fantastic vegetarian side dish option to serve with potatoes. Not only do they add vibrant colors to your plate, but they also bring a delicious smoky flavor that complements the heartiness of potatoes.

Grilling vegetables helps to retain their natural flavors and textures, making them a healthy and satisfying addition to any meal.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a popular choice for grilling due to its mild flavor and tender texture. Simply slice the zucchini into long strips, brush them with olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and grill them until they are tender and slightly charred.

The result is a delightful combination of smokiness and freshness that pairs perfectly with potatoes.

Squash

Similar to zucchini, squash is an excellent vegetable to grill alongside potatoes. Its firm texture holds up well on the grill, and it develops a delicious caramelized flavor when cooked. Whether you choose yellow squash or butternut squash, grilling it brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a delightful smoky taste.

Eggplant

Eggplant is another versatile vegetable that can be transformed into a mouthwatering grilled side dish. Grilling eggplant gives it a rich, smoky flavor and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. To prepare grilled eggplant, slice it into rounds or lengthwise, brush it with olive oil, sprinkle some herbs and spices, and grill until it is soft and slightly charred.

Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are often considered the vegetarian’s steak due to their meaty texture and robust flavor. Grilling these mushrooms enhances their natural umami taste and creates a satisfyingly juicy texture.

Marinate the portobello mushrooms in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling them for an extra burst of flavor.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that pairs wonderfully with potatoes. When grilled, asparagus develops a smoky flavor and a tender yet slightly crispy texture. Drizzle some olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper, and grill the asparagus until it is bright green and slightly charred.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any grilled vegetable medley. They add a sweet and tangy taste to the dish, balancing out the earthiness of potatoes. Grill the bell peppers until their skin is blistered and slightly charred, then peel off the skin and slice them into strips to serve alongside potatoes.

Grilled vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy choice to accompany your potato dishes. So, fire up the grill and get creative with these satisfying vegetarian side dishes!

Fresh Green Salads

Mixed greens salad

One of the most refreshing and versatile vegetarian side dishes to serve with potatoes is a mixed greens salad. This salad typically includes a variety of fresh lettuce leaves such as romaine, arugula, and mesclun, along with other vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.

The addition of some tangy dressing, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy ranch, can take this salad to the next level of deliciousness. Not only does it add a burst of flavor, but it also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.

Spinach salad

Another fantastic option for a vegetarian side dish is a spinach salad. Spinach is packed with nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice to pair with potatoes. To make a flavorful spinach salad, you can add some sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Kale salad

Kale has gained quite a reputation as a superfood, and for good reason. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. A kale salad with roasted sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, and a lemon tahini dressing is a perfect accompaniment to any potato dish.

The creaminess of the tahini and the sweetness of the cranberries balance the earthy flavor of kale, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Greek salad

For a Mediterranean twist, a Greek salad is an excellent choice to serve alongside potatoes. This salad typically consists of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny Kalamata olives, all dressed in a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.

The combination of flavors in a Greek salad pairs wonderfully with the heartiness of potatoes, making it a satisfying and refreshing side dish.

Caesar salad

The classic Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser and a great option to complement a potato-based dish. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing create a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

You can also add some cherry tomatoes or grilled vegetables to add a pop of color and extra freshness to this beloved salad.

Beans, Lentils and Legumes

When it comes to vegetarian side dishes to serve with potatoes, beans, lentils, and legumes are excellent choices. Not only are they packed with protein and fiber, but they also add a delicious and satisfying texture to any meal.

Black beans

Black beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a black bean salad, a black bean soup, or even black bean burgers, these legumes are sure to add a burst of flavor.

Plus, they are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Kidney beans

Kidney beans are another great option to pair with potatoes. They are commonly used in dishes like chili, stews, and casseroles, adding a rich and hearty flavor. These beans are also a good source of iron, which is important for maintaining healthy blood cells.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a popular choice for vegetarian side dishes. They can be roasted to create a crunchy snack, mashed to make hummus, or added to salads and curries for an extra protein boost.

Chickpeas are high in fiber and low in fat, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

Lentils

Lentils are a staple in many vegetarian diets due to their high nutritional value. They are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads.

They come in different colors, such as green, red, and black, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

Edamame

Edamame, or young soybeans, are a popular side dish in Asian cuisine. They can be boiled or steamed and served as a nutritious snack or added to salads, stir-fries, and rice dishes. Edamame is a good source of plant-based protein and contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

Baked beans

Baked beans are a classic comfort food that pairs well with potatoes. They are typically made with navy beans, flavored with a sweet and tangy sauce, and slow-cooked to perfection. Baked beans are a good source of fiber and provide a satisfying and flavorful addition to any meal.

When preparing vegetarian side dishes to serve with potatoes, incorporating beans, lentils, and legumes is a great way to add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to your meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, these options are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Sautéed Vegetables

Sautéed vegetables are a versatile and delicious option to serve as a side dish with potatoes. They are not only packed with flavor but also provide a range of essential nutrients. Here are some mouthwatering sautéed vegetable options to consider:

Sautéed spinach

Sautéed spinach is a simple yet satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with potatoes. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. To prepare sautéed spinach, heat some olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.

Then, toss in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Sautéed kale

Kale is another nutrient-dense green vegetable that can be transformed into a delicious side dish when sautéed. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. To make sautéed kale, heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped kale leaves, and cook until they become tender.

Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Sautéed onions or leeks

Sautéed onions or leeks add a savory and aromatic touch to any meal, including potatoes. They can be caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness or cooked until they are soft and translucent. To sauté onions or leeks, heat some butter or olive oil in a pan, add thinly sliced onions or chopped leeks, and cook until they turn golden brown or become tender.

They make a delightful addition to roasted or mashed potatoes.

Sautéed broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that offers a wide array of health benefits. When sautéed, it becomes tender and develops a slightly crispy texture. To prepare sautéed broccoli, heat some oil in a pan, add bite-sized broccoli florets, and cook until they are bright green and slightly charred.

Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

Sautéed carrots

Sautéed carrots are a vibrant and colorful addition to any potato-based meal. Carrots are known for their high vitamin A content and natural sweetness. To sauté carrots, heat some butter in a pan, add sliced carrots, and cook until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon for a unique and delightful flavor combination.

Sautéed Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts may not be everyone’s favorite vegetable, but when sautéed to perfection, they can be absolutely delicious. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice.

To sauté Brussels sprouts, heat some olive oil in a pan, add halved Brussels sprouts, and cook until they are tender and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.

Experiment with these sautéed vegetable options to find the perfect accompaniment for your potatoes. Whether you choose spinach, kale, onions, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, you can’t go wrong with these flavorful and nutritious side dishes.

Conclusion

Serving potatoes alongside fresh vegetables, legumes and salads adds nutrition and satisfaction to any vegetarian meal. With endless tasty options, it’s easy to create vegetable pairings that perfectly complement simple potato dishes.