If you’ve never had Dominican food recipes, you’re seriously missing out. It’s all about bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes that make you feel like you’re sitting at a table in the heart of the Dominican Republic.
But here’s the thing—while the meats and seafood often steal the spotlight, the vegetables are just as good (if not better).
From creamy eggplant dishes to hearty stews, these Dominican recipes easy will have you reaching for seconds.
Let’s talk about Dominican vegan food, too. You don’t need meat to enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean!
Many classic dishes are packed with veggies, beans, and tropical seasonings that bring out the best in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for healthy Dominican recipes or something rich and comforting, I’ve got you covered with these 13 Dominican vegetable recipes.
1. Dominican Eggplant Recipe (Berenjena Guisada)
Eggplant lovers, this one’s for you! Dominican eggplant recipe, or berenjena guisada, is a simple yet flavorful dish where eggplant is stewed until soft and buttery.
It’s cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a mix of Dominican spices, turning it into a rich, saucy dish that pairs beautifully with rice.
The trick?
Let the eggplant soak up all the seasonings for that deep, savory flavor. Even if you think you don’t like eggplant, this might just change your mind.
2. Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)
If you love crispy snacks, tostones will become your new favorite. These twice-fried green plantains are golden and crunchy on the outside, yet soft on the inside.
They’re the ultimate Dominican side dishes, perfect with a sprinkle of salt and a side of garlic dipping sauce.
The key is to fry them once, smash them, and then fry them again for that perfect crisp. Whether you eat them solo or alongside a big plate of beans and rice, they never disappoint.
3. Mangu (Mashed Plantains)
Mangu is a breakfast staple in Dominican food—and honestly, I could eat it any time of day. Think of it as mashed potatoes, but way better.
Boiled green plantains are mashed with butter and a little bit of water until smooth and creamy.
The best part?
It’s usually served with sautéed onions and sometimes cheese or avocado. It’s comforting, filling, and ridiculously easy to make.
4. Habichuelas Guisadas (Stewed Beans)
Dominicans take their beans seriously, and for good reason.
Habichuelas guisadas are slow-cooked with garlic, onions, peppers, and herbs until they become thick, creamy, and packed with flavor.
These beans are a must-have side for rice dishes, but they’re just as good on their own. You can use red beans, black beans, or pinto beans—whatever you have on hand works.
5. Moro de Guandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)
Rice and beans are already great on their own, but when you cook them together?
Pure magic. Moro de guandules is a classic Dominican food recipe where rice is cooked with pigeon peas, coconut milk, and Dominican seasonings.
It has a subtle sweetness from the coconut but also a rich, savory depth that makes it the perfect side for just about anything.
6. Yuca con Mojo (Cassava with Garlic Sauce)
Yuca, also known as cassava, is a root vegetable that’s incredibly popular in the Dominican Republic.
Yuca con mojo is a simple but flavorful dish where boiled yuca is drizzled with a garlicky citrus sauce that gives it a fresh and zesty kick.
The soft yuca soaks up all the flavors, making each bite melt in your mouth. If you’ve never tried cassava before, this is the perfect way to start.
7. Dominican Avocado Salad
Dominican avocados are huge and incredibly creamy, making them perfect for salads.
This simple healthy Dominican recipe combines fresh avocado slices with tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and a touch of salt. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs well with almost any meal.
Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to throw together in just minutes.
8. Ensalada Rusa (Dominican Potato Salad)
Yes, it’s called “Russian Salad,” but the Dominican version is something special.
This creamy potato salad includes carrots, beets (which give it a pink hue), eggs, and mayo. Some versions also add apples for a little sweetness.
It’s a must-have at Dominican gatherings and goes perfectly with rice and beans.
9. Pastelón de Plátano Maduro (Sweet Plantain Casserole)
Think of this as the Dominican version of lasagna, but instead of pasta, it’s layered with sweet plantains.
Pastelón de plátano maduro combines mashed ripe plantains with cheese and a flavorful filling (usually beef, but a vegetable version with mushrooms and bell peppers is just as good).
The sweet and savory contrast makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
10. Sancocho de Verduras (Vegetable Stew)
Sancocho is the king of Dominican soups, and while the traditional version includes meat, this Dominican vegan food alternative is just as satisfying.
Packed with root vegetables like yuca, plantains, potatoes, and corn, this hearty stew is slow-cooked with herbs and spices until everything is tender and flavorful.
It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out.
11. Arepitas de Yuca (Cassava Fritters)
These crispy little fritters are dangerously addictive. Grated yuca is mixed with eggs, cheese, and a touch of seasoning, then fried until golden brown.
They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect as an appetizer or snack. If you like fritters, these will quickly become a favorite.
12. Chayote Guisado (Stewed Chayote)
Chayote is a mild-flavored squash that soaks up whatever seasonings you throw at it, making it perfect for a hearty stew.
Chayote guisado is simmered with onions, garlic, peppers, and tomatoes until tender.
It’s light, healthy, and full of subtle but delicious flavors. Serve it over rice for a simple yet satisfying meal.
13. Espaguetis Dominicanos (Dominican Spaghetti)
Yes, spaghetti! But not just any spaghetti—Dominican recipes authentic include a unique twist on this Italian classic.
The sauce is creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavors like garlic, bell peppers, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce.
It’s usually served with a side of fried plantains, which might sound unusual, but trust me, it works.
Final Thoughts
Who knew vegetables could be this exciting?
From crispy tostones to hearty stews and creamy salads, these 13 Dominican vegetable recipes prove that Dominican cuisine is just as much about bold flavors as it is about comforting, satisfying meals.
Whether you’re looking for healthy Dominican recipes, flavorful Dominican side dishes, or just an excuse to eat more plantains (because why wouldn’t you?), these dishes have something for everyone.
So, the next time you want to bring a little Caribbean flair to your kitchen, try one of these recipes. You might just find your new favorite dish!