Boost your health with these 7 garlic vegan sides
Garlic isn't just a flavor enhancer; it's a health-promoting powerhouse, especially in a vegan diet. It's renowned for its capacity to boost the immune system. We've prepared seven straightforward yet scrumptious garlic-based vegan side dishes that are perfect complements to any meal. These sides are not only easy to make but also brimming with the well-being benefits that garlic provides.
Garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts
Toss halved Brussels sprouts with a generous amount of olive oil, plenty of minced garlic, and dashes of salt and pepper. Spread them out for roasting until they've achieved a caramelized exterior and the edges are delightfully crispy. This nutritious side dish is not only loaded with essential vitamins but also features the compound allicin from garlic, which is effective in fighting off infections.
Lemon-garlic green beans
Blanch green beans quickly, then saute them with the zest of a lemon and plenty of freshly minced garlic. This dish shines with a refreshing taste and is rich in antioxidants, supporting your immune system. It's a simple, vibrant side that brings the zesty and healthful benefits of garlic to your table in a deliciously light form.
Smoky garlic mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a pan and stir in smoked paprika and minced garlic to release their flavors. Add mushrooms, sauteing until tender. This dish is not just tasty but also nutritious, offering a wealth of selenium and B vitamins. These nutrients are crucial for health, making these smoky garlic mushrooms a wise choice for anyone seeking a wholesome vegan side.
Creamy garlic cauliflower mash
Steam cauliflower florets until tender, then blend with roasted garlic cloves for flavor and health benefits. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste and almond milk to create a creamy texture. This side dish is comforting, low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with the immune-supportive compounds found in garlic, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious vegan meal accompaniment.
Spicy garlic eggplant stir-fry
Saute cubed eggplant with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Add soy sauce, a splash of vinegar, and just enough sugar to create a harmonious blend. Ample minced garlic is key, cooked until the eggplant turns tender. The nasunin in eggplant pairs with garlic's protective agents to shield cell membranes from harm, offering a deliciously healthful vegan side dish.
Zesty garlic broccoli rabe
Begin by blanching broccoli rabe to tenderize. Next, saute the blanched greens with ample slices of garlic until they become fragrant. Cap it off with a hearty squeeze of lemon juice, which not only enlivens the dish but also injects a dose of vitamin C. This complements the antimicrobial qualities of garlic, marrying nutrition with robust flavor in this healthful side.
Sweet roasted carrots with garlic
Drizzle whole carrots with olive oil and add garlic cloves, roasting until tender. The caramelization enhances the carrots' natural sweetness, while the garlic softens and mellows. This dish offers a synergy of beta-carotene from the carrots and immune-boosting properties from the garlic, creating a side that's not only healthful but also rich in flavor.
