I think this is what most people get hung up on when it comes to planning menus, especially on a plant based diet when the main course is already plants 
. And personally I love a nice one dish meal, something with grains, beans, and veggies all thrown together.
Even a less than ideal one dish meal beats fast food. But, sometimes it works out to put just a bit more effort into it and serve a few extra dishes along with the main course.
Salad and Rolls are favorite and often seen accompaniments
Simple on veggie side dishes, steamed or sauteed are also nice; broccoli, edamame, carrots, kale, sweet potato, etc.
Baked potatoes work as a side dish, when they’re not part of the main course.
Roasted veggies, like the broccoli from Post Punk Kitchen are also an option
Also,
Sliced fruit
or
Fruit salads
Basically, anything simple that rounds out the meal, contrasting colors are nice; if the main course is green use sweet potatoes or carrots, or if it is orange use spinach or beans as a side.
C
