Top Vegan Sides for Burgers: Delicious and Healthy Dishes
Creating a delicious vegan burger experience is all about choosing the right sides. These can be just as versatile and hearty as their meat-based counterparts, but made from entirely plant-based, cruelty-free ingredients!
Baked Beans or Corn on the Cob
Whether you are grilling a delicious black bean burger or cooking up a Thai Sweet Potato Veggie Burger, enjoyed in the summer heat or cozy cozy evenings, the perfect sides add an unmatched richness to the meal. Take, for instance, baked beans or corn on the cob. These timeless favorites pair well with burgers and are a great way to enjoy healthy, hearty, and comforting ingredients.
Green Bean Salad or Hearty Pasta Salad
For a refreshing and flavorful side, try a hearty green bean salad. Fresh green beans can be tossed with simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a quick, fresh side dish. Alternatively, a pasta salad can be the perfect addition. Use your favorite pasta, mix with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a light dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Both are perfect for a warm day, and they're easy to prepare in advance.
Vegan Coleslaw
The classic coleslaw can be transformed into a versatile, creamy, and delicious vegan coleslaw. Start by thinly shredding a half head of green cabbage and a carrot. For the creamy sauce, soften 1 cup of raw cashews by soaking them overnight in filtered water. Combine the cashews with a pitted date soaked in warm water, mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, or fresh garlic, and lemon juice. Blend these ingredients until very smooth, adding a little water if needed.
To prepare the coleslaw, mix the shredded cabbage and carrot with the sauce. Let it sit for an hour to soften the cabbage, or serve it immediately for a fresh crunch. This dish is a perfect side to any burger and can keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Expect a creamy, tangy, and tasty side that is both addictive and nourishing.
Thai Sweet Potato Veggie Burgers with Spicy Peanut Sauce
If you are exploring more adventurous flavors, Thai Sweet Potato Veggie Burgers are a fantastic choice. This intricate recipe combines sweet potatoes, cilantro, basil, peanuts, and chickpeas into a delicious and moist patty that can be enjoyed on a plain bun, lettuce leaves, or in wraps. Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste, adding ground coriander, lime juice, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
For the peanut sauce, mix smooth peanut butter, lime juice, tamari, maple syrup, ginger, and a bit of cayenne for heat. This sauce can be adjusted to taste and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Pairing it with the burgers finishes off the meal with a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness.
These vegan sides may seem simple, but they are packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, they are versatile enough to pair with a variety of burger recipes and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you prefer something creamy, crunchy, or tangy, there’s a vegan side to enhance your burger experience. So, the next time you host a vegan burger night, don’t skip out on these essential sides—your guests are sure to thank you!