What To Serve With Tacos - Best Side Dishes
Tacos can be enjoyed both ways, whether solo for simplicity or with sides for variety. Adding side dishes to tacos creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal, catering to different taste preferences and providing a more complete culinary adventure.
In this article, we are going to talk about 17 varieties of sides that can be used to serve with tacos. These tacos can complement the main taco ingredients, offering contrasts in taste and mouthfeel and making the taco journey even more interesting.
1. Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as "Esquites" is a delicious and popular Mexican dish inspired by elote, a traditional street food. The salad typically features off-the-cob corn kernels mixed with a flavorful combination of ingredients.
Mexican Street Corn Salad serves as the perfect side dish for tacos. The sweet crunch of corn kernels combined with the creaminess of mayonnaise or crema, the saltiness of Cotija cheese and the kick of chili powder, create a harmonious blend that complements the diverse taste profile of tacos.
2. Guacamole
Guacamole is an ideal side dish for tacos for several reasons. Firstly, its rich and creamy texture complements the savory and sometimes spicy elements of tacos, providing a cool and indulgent contrast.
The combination of ripe avocados, lime juice, vegetables and spices adds vibrant flavors as well as a refreshing and zesty component to the meal. Moreover, the natural creaminess of guacamole can contribute to a healthier and more wholesome taco experience.
3. Salsa Roja
Salsa roja is a red salsa typically made with ingredients like tomatoes and chili peppers and spice. It is an excellent side dish for tacos as it adds a zesty kick to tacos making the overall taste experience even more flavorful.
The acidity from tomatoes, heat from chili peppers, and the savory blend of spices create a well-balanced accompaniment to the fillings of tacos. Also, the freshness and brightness of salsa roja can cut through the richness of meats or other taco fillings, providing a refreshing contrast.
4. Ceviche
While ceviche is traditionally served as a standalone dish, it can complement tacos exceptionally well due to its refreshing and flavorful characteristics. Ceviche typically consists of raw seafood, marinated in citrus juices along with other ingredients like onions, tomatoes, cilantro and chili peppers.
Ceviche as a side dish provides a unique combination of zesty acidity, bright flavors, and a hint of spiciness that makes the taco experience even better. Additionally, the seafood-centric nature of ceviche pairs well with various taco options, including fish or shrimp tacos.
5. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is an excellent side dish for tacos. Its crisp and crunchy texture adds a satisfying contrast to the softness of taco shells and fillings. The light and tangy nature of coleslaw can help balance the richness of certain taco ingredients.
The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables in coleslaw brings a refreshing and cooling element to the palate. Also, the creamy dressing pairs well with various taco proteins, such as grilled chicken, pulled pork, or fish.
6. Chipotle Cream Sauce
Chipotle Cream Sauce can add depth, richness, and a touch of smokiness to tacos. This sauce, typically made with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce blended with sour cream or mayonnaise, offers a rich and smoky flavor profile with a hint of spice.
This sauce is versatile and can pair well with various taco proteins. The creamy consistency of the sauce provides a smooth and velvety texture that contrasts nicely with the textures of taco fillings making tacos even more appealing.
7. Avocado Crema
Avocado Crema is another excellent companion for tacos. This creamy and flavorful sauce made with ripe avocados, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice and various seasonings, adds richness to the filling of tacos.
Avocado Crema also offers a cooling effect, making it particularly suitable for tacos with spicier elements. Avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit, so the crema adds a dose of healthy fats and vitamins to the taco.
8. Queso Dip
Queso dip, short for queso fundido or chile con queso, is a popular Mexican-inspired appetizer or condiment made with melted cheese. The base of the dip is typically a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Monterrey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend
Queso dip typically has a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the savory fillings of tacos. Queso dip is usually served best when the cheese is melting and this warmy gooeyness is a perfect match for the temperature of tacos, which are usually served hot.
9. Borracho Beans
Borracho beans, also known as "drunken beans" make a fantastic protein-rich partner for tacos. Borracho beans offer a substantial and protein-packed side dish, making the taco meal more filling and satisfying.
The borracho beans are rich and have a savory flavor. Typically cooked with beer, bacon, onions, and spices, borracho beans add a flavorful and hearty element to the taco meal. The bean's texture and substance create a satisfying contrast to the softness of taco fillings.
10. Habanero Marinated Cucumber Slices
Habanero-marinated cucumber slices refer to cucumbers that have been soaked or marinated in a mixture that includes habanero peppers. This marination process imparts flavor, heat, and spice to the cucumber slices, creating a zesty and spicy cucumber dish.
The heat from the habanero peppers adds a spicy contrast to the other flavors in the tacos. On the other hand, cucumber slices especially when marinated, bring a refreshing and crisp element to the meal.
11. Fajita Fillings
Fajita fillings as a side dish for tacos offer a flavorful and versatile addition to the taco meal. Fajita fillings typically consist of grilled and seasoned meats (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp) accompanied by sautéed bell peppers and onions.
The seasoned and grilled nature of fajita fillings brings a robust and savory flavor profile. The Fajita fillings provide additional protein options beyond what may be included in the main taco fillings. As well as the use of aromatic veggies like bell peppers adds an aromatic touch to the meal.
12. Sour Cream
Sour cream is a classic topping in Mexican cuisine and has become a staple in many taco recipes. Its creamy and tangy qualities make it a versatile condiment that complements the flavors and textures of various taco fillings.
The tanginess of sour cream helps balance out the spiciness of taco fillings such as grilled meats or spicy salsas. Moreover, sour cream is a customizable condiment and you can level up its flavor by adding herbs, lime juice, or other seasonings.
13. Greek Yogurt Sauce
Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream as it is lower in fat and higher in protein. This makes Greek Yogurt Sauce a good side dish for tacos for those looking for a lighter option without compromising on taste.
Greek yogurt sauce adds a creamy and rich texture to tacos and also has a cooling effect. Also, the natural tanginess of Greek yogurt brings a refreshing and slightly acidic element to the tacos.
14. Cilantro Lime Crema
Cilantro Lime Crema is an excellent choice is another flavorful, refreshing, and versatile side dish for tacos. This side dish adds a burst of fresh, zesty, and creamy flavors to the whole taco meal.
The combination of cilantro and lime brings a vibrant and citrusy flavor to the crema. The crema itself has a creamy consistency that adds smoothness to the taco meal and the lime in the crema makes the taco meal refreshing and slightly tangy.
15. Ranch Inspired Taco Sauce
Ranch-inspired taco sauce can be a flavorful and unique addition as a side dish for tacos. This dipping sauce offers a fusion of traditional ranch flavors with a Mexican twist.
The creamy sauce adds smoothness and richness to tacos, has cooling effect and is full of herbs. Hence, ranch-inspired taco sauce can work well as a dipping sauce for tacos or even as a drizzle on top, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
16. Salsa Verde
Salsa Verde is a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering an authentic and traditional flavor that aligns with the origins of many taco recipes. It offers a burst of bright and zesty flavors that complement a variety of taco fillings.
Salsa Verde, made with tomatillos, green chili peppers, onions, and cilantro, adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick that elevates the overall taste of tacos. Whether drizzled on top of tacos, used as a dipping sauce, or served on the side, Salsa Verde adds a delightful and authentic touch that enhances the enjoyment of tacos.
17. Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a taco side dish known for its simplicity and freshness. Pico de Gallo is made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice adding freshness to the whole meal. Apart from the freshness, taco also adds a burst of color to the taco presentation.
Pico de Gallo is low in calories and provides a nutritious side dish option for tacos. Whether spooned onto tacos, used as a topping, or served on the side, Pico de Gallo adds a refreshing and authentic touch to tacos.
Recent posts
Recipe
Recipe
Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Garlic butter salmon is not only a culinary delight but also a nutritional powerhouse, offering a delectable blend of flavors and numerous health benefits. This dish combines the rich taste of salmon with the aromatic and savory notes of garlic ...
Recipe
A Comprehensive Guide To Perfect Salmon Gravlax
Salmon gravlax is a luxurious, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Scandinavian culinary tradition. This delicacy, made by curing salmon with a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill, is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. In this comprehensive g...
Recipe
14 Grilled Salmon Recipes For Perfect Summer Dinner
Salmon is possibly the most reliable dinner option for many households throughout America. So, we are confident that you already have an array of salmon-baked recipes on your corner. What we have brought for you today are grilled salmon recipes so yo...
Recipe
Best Smoked Salmon Appetizer Recipe
Smoked salmon appetizers are a timeless and elegant choice for any gathering. These offer a perfect balance of rich, smoky flavors and fresh, vibrant ingredients. These have become synonymous with casual brunches as well as upscale gatherings because...
Recipe
The Ultimate Guide To Perfectly Crispy Skin Salmon
Salmon, renowned for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits, is a favorite in many kitchens. One of the most coveted ways to prepare this fish is with a perfectly crispy skin. Achieving that golden, crunchy exterior while maintaining tender, ju...
Recipe
Nourishing Meals You Can Make With Canned Salmon
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised if you've yet to delve into the world of canned salmon. These recipes offer a convenient alternative to cooking a salmon filet, and they're budget-friendly too. Explore our curated list of 15 top canned salmon recip...
