Are you a taco fanatic who is always trying to spice up your dinner table?
Wanting ideas on what delicious side dishes to serve alongside your homemade tacos? We have just the thing!
Here are 15 amazing ideas for accompaniments that are guaranteed to please at any Mexican-style spread.
From chunky guacamole and flavorful salsa to your favorite sides, each one of these recipes adds intricate layers of flavor and texture that will make anyone’s tastebuds jump with joy – even those picky eaters at the table!
What to Serve with Tacos? 15 TASTY Side Dishes
1. Creamy Chipotle Slaw
If you’re looking for a delicious and creamy slaw to serve with your tacos, look no further than this recipe for Creamy Chipotle Slaw.
This slaw has a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, and the creamy texture pairs perfectly with the crunch of the fresh veggies.
Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds.
One of the best things about this dish is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste.
If you like things a little spicier, simply add more chipotle peppers to the dressing.
Or, if you prefer things on the sweeter side, add a bit more honey.
However you like it, this slaw is sure to please.
- For extra crunch, add some chopped up crispy bacon or crumbled up tortilla chips.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra-creamy finish.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
2. Pico De Gallo
Pico de gallo is a fresh and flavorful salsa that originates from Mexico.
It is typically made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and chili peppers.
The ingredients are combined to create a vibrant and colorful dish that is perfect for adding some zest to your next meal.
Pico de gallo is best known for its fresh flavor profile.
The tomatoes provide a juicy base, while the onions add a sharp crunch.
The cilantro lends a touch of herbal flavor, and the lime juice brightens everything up.
The chili peppers give the dish a bit of heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your preferences.
If you’re looking for a way to add some excitement to your next meal, pico de gallo is a great option.
It’s perfect for topping tacos, burritos, or nachos.
You can also use it as a dip for chips or vegetables.
And because it’s so easy to make, you can whip it up in no time at all.
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Finely chop the ingredients so they are evenly distributed in each bite.
- Add more or less chili peppers depending on how much heat you prefer.
- Let the salsa sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors have time to meld together.
3. Fresh Mango Salsa
Looking for a delicious and fresh side dish to serve with your tacos? mango salsa is the perfect option.
This dish is full of bright and vibrant flavors, and the sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the peppers.
The salsa is also nice and creamy, thanks to the addition of avocados.
In terms of taste, this salsa is sweet, spicy, and tangy.
The texture is smooth and creamy, with a little bit of crunch from the onions and peppers.
Overall, it’s a really well-balanced dish.
There are a few tips to keep in mind when making this dish.
First, make sure that your mangoes are ripe but not too ripe.
You want them to be nice and soft so that they blend easily into the salsa.
Second, if you want a little more spice, feel free to add an extra jalapeno pepper or two.
And finally, be sure to taste the salsa before serving it; you may want to add a little bit more salt or lime juice depending on your preferences.
4. Guacamole
Who doesn’t love guacamole? The perfect blend of fresh, creamy and flavorful, it’s no wonder this dish is a party favorite.
And while it’s delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your guac game.
First, let’s talk taste.
Guacamole is all about finding the perfect balance of flavors.
Too much lime and it will be tart, too much salt and it will be bland.
The key is to start with a small amount of each ingredient and then adjust to taste.
Texture-wise, you want your guacamole to be smooth and creamy.
This can be achieved by mashing the avocado with a fork or using a food processor.
If you’re going for a chunkier texture, simply give the avocado a rough chop before adding it to the rest of the ingredients.
Still not convinced? Here are a few tips to help you make the best guacamole ever:
- Use ripe avocados: You want your avocados to be nice and soft, otherwise they’ll be difficult to mash. Check for ripeness by gently pressing on the fruit; if it gives slightly, it’s ready to use.
- Add acid: A little bit of acidity will brighten up the flavors in your guacamole. Try adding lime juice, lemon juice or even vinegar until you get the desired taste.
- Season generously: Don’t be afraid to season your guacamole with salt, pepper and other spices like cumin or chili powder. Taste as you go until you get the flavor profile you’re looking for.
- Mix in some extras: Got some fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes? Throw them into the mix. Get creative and add whatever ingredients you think would taste good in your guacamole.
5.Mexican Corn on the Cob
There’s nothing quite like fresh corn on the cob in the summertime.
But have you ever tried Mexican corn on the cob? This dish is a delicious twist on traditional corn on the cob and it’s perfect for your next barbecue or picnic.
Mexican corn on the cob is typically served with a variety of toppings, including mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
The combination of these ingredients gives the corn a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that is absolutely delicious.
The texture of the corn is also unique – it’s soft and tender but with a slight crunch from the toppings.
If you’re looking for a new side dish to try this summer, definitely give Mexican corn on the cob a try.
It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Here are a few tips to elevate your dish:
- Use fresh corn if possible. The sweetness of fresh corn really shines through in this dish.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Try adding chopped cilantro or diced avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Serve the corn on the cob whole or cut into bite-sized pieces – it’s up to you.
6. Refried Beans
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there are few dishes as iconic as tacos.
But what makes a taco truly great is not just the meat or vegetables filling, but also the perfect side dish to accompany it.
And when it comes to side dishes, refried beans are a classic for a reason.
There are many different ways to make refried beans, but the basic idea is to cook beans until they are soft and then mash them up with some spices.
This results in a dish that is both flavorful and hearty, making it the perfect partner for tacos.
The best part is that refried beans are relatively easy to make, so you can enjoy them even if you’re not a master chef.
If you’ve never had refried beans before, you’re in for a treat.
The dish has a rich and savory flavor, with a texture that is both creamy and slightly chunky.
It’s filling without being heavy, and it pairs well with both crunchy and soft tacos.
7. Black Bean and Corn Salad
Black bean and corn salad is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
The combination of black beans, corn, and other vegetables makes for a delicious and nutritious salad that is sure to please everyone.
The salad has a great taste and texture, with the black beans providing a hearty flavor and the corn adding a touch of sweetness.
The salad is also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthy option.
There are many reasons to consider trying black bean and corn salad.
The salad is easy to make, can be made ahead of time, and is relatively inexpensive.
Additionally, the salad is very versatile and can be served as a side dish or main course.
To elevate the dish, try adding avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese.
For an even heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Black bean and corn salad is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
8. Fruit Salad with Lime Agave Dressing
Fruit salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course.
This recipe for fruit salad with lime agave dressing is a refreshing and flavorful way to enjoy fruit salad.
The lime agave dressing is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the fresh fruits in the salad are a delicious way to enjoy the summer season.
The great thing about this recipe is that it is very versatile.
You can use any type of fruit that you like in the salad, and the lime agave dressing will complement any type of fruit.
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I suggest using a mix of different colors and textures of fruit in the salad to make it more interesting.
For example, you could use red grapes, green apples, oranges, and bananas.
The different colors and textures will make the salad more visually appealing and exciting to eat.
If you want to elevate this dish, you could add some chopped nuts or seeds to the salad.
This will add some extra protein and healthy fats to the dish.
You could also add a scoop of yogurt or cottage cheese to the salad for an additional source of protein.
9. Cucumber Avocado Salad
This cucumber avocado salad is the perfect dish to accompany your tacos.
It’s light and refreshing, with a great balance of flavors.
The cucumber and avocado are both very mild in taste, but the lime juice and cilantro give it a nice zesty flavor.
The texture is also amazing – the creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the crunchy cucumber.
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish to serve with your tacos, this cucumber avocado salad is a great option.
It’s also healthy and relatively easy to make.
To elevate the dish, you could add some chopped jalapeno or red onion.
If you want a bit more of a flavorful punch, try using diced tomatoes instead of cucumber.
10. Mexican Quinoa Salad
This Mexican Quinoa Salad is a flavorful and filling side dish that is perfect for your next taco night.
The salad is packed with healthy ingredients like quinoa, black beans, corn, and tomatoes.
It is also light on calories and fat, making it a great option if you are watching your weight.
The best part about this salad is that it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.
The flavor of this salad is really fresh and vibrant.
The quinoa provides a nice base for the other flavors to shine through.
The black beans and corn add a touch of sweetness, while the tomatoes add acidity and brightness.
The cilantro gives the salad an extra pop of flavor.
I also added some diced avocado to my salad for some creaminess.
If you are looking for a new side dish to try at your next taco night, I highly recommend this Mexican Quinoa Salad.
It is full of flavor and nutrients, and it is sure to please everyone at the table.
- Add some chopped jalapeño for a little bit of heat.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese or Cotija cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve the salad with lime wedges so that everyone can squeeze fresh lime juice over their portion.
11. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
When it comes to side dishes, roasted sweet potatoes are a classic.
They’re simple to make, and they go with just about everything.
Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins A and C.
Roasted sweet potatoes have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with savory dishes.
They’re also soft and creamy on the inside, with a crispy exterior.
If you’re looking for a new side dish to try, roasted sweet potatoes are a great option.
They’re easy to make, and they can be dressed up or down depending on your preferences.
Here are a few tips for making the perfect roasted sweet potatoes:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized pieces so they’ll cook evenly.
- Season the sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like before roasting.
- Roast the sweet potatoes in a hot oven (400 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) until they’re tender and slightly browned.
- Serve the roasted sweet potatoes immediately for the best flavor and texture.
12. Jalapeno Cilantro Rice
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish to accompany your tacos, look no further than this Jalapeno Cilantro Rice.
The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth and then mixed with fresh cilantro, diced jalapenos, and lime juice.
It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will complement any taco filling.
The rice has a great texture – it’s slightly chewy with a bit of bite.
And the flavor is out of this world.
The cilantro and lime juice give it a freshness, while the jalapenos add just the right amount of heat.
If you want to kick up the heat even more, you can always add additional jalapenos or use a hotter variety of pepper.
This recipe is so versatile – it would go well with almost any type of protein.
Tacos are obviously the obvious choice, but it would also be delicious with grilled chicken or fish.
And if you’re vegetarian or vegan, it’s a great option as well.
One final tip – if you want to make this dish even more special, try serving it in individual bowls topped with crumbled cotija cheese or sour cream.
It’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
13. Cinnamon Sugar Churros
Looking for a fun and unique twist on the classic churro? Then you need to try cinnamon sugar churros.
These delicious fried treats are coated in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, giving them a sweet and spicy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
And trust us, they’re addictively good.
Cinnamon sugar churros have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
They’re perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce or caramel, or even eating on their own.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add some ice cream to the mix and make churro ice cream sandwiches.
- Use high quality cinnamon for the coating. This will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with other coatings. Churros are traditionally coated in sugar and cinnamon, but you can also try using chocolate, caramel, or even icing sugar.
- Serve churros with dipping sauces on the side so everyone can customize their own treat.
14. Flan
Flan is a classic dessert that can be found in Spanish and Latin American cuisine.
It is typically made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, and has a smooth, creamy texture.
The rich flavor of the custard is often balanced by a tart fruit topping, making it a refreshing and satisfying treat.
While flan is traditionally served chilled, some cooks prefer to serve it warm or even hot.
This can help to intensify the flavor of the custard and make it more velvety in texture.
To elevate this classic dish, try using fresh ingredients and taking care with the presentation.
For example, rather than using canned fruits, opt for fresh berries or slices of stone fruit.
Serve the flan in individual ramekins or on small plates, and garnish with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
With a few simple tweaks, you can transform this humble dessert into a show-stopping treat.
15. Tres Leches Cake
If you’re looking for a delicious and unique dessert to serve at your next party or potluck, look no further than tres leches cake.
This traditional Latin American cake is made with three types of milk – evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk – which give it a richness and depth of flavor that you won’t find in any other cake recipe.
The texture of tres leches cake is also unlike any other; it’s dense and moist, almost like a sponge cake soaked in syrup.
Tres leches cake is definitely worth trying if you’re looking for something new and exciting to make.
And if you want to really impress your guests, there are a few simple tips you can follow to elevate this dish.
First, be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Second, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings – there are endless possibilities when it comes to tres leches cake.
Conclusion
There you have it, the 15 best side dishes to serve with tacos.
I hope this blog post has given you some inspiration on what to serve next time you have tacos.
Let us know in the comments what your favourite side dish is.
And don’t forget to tag us in your photos on Instagram and Facebook.
What to Serve with Tacos? 15 TASTY Side Dishes
Ingredients
- 1. Creamy Chipotle Slaw
- 2. Pico De Gallo
- 3. Fresh Mango Salsa
- 4. Guacamole
- 5. Mexican Corn on the Cob
- 6. Refried Beans
- 7. Black Bean and Corn Salad
- 8. Fruit Salad with Lime Agave Dressing
- 9. Cucumber Avocado Salad
- 10. Mexican Quinoa Salad
- 11. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- 12. Jalapeno Cilantro Rice
- 13. Cinnamon Sugar Churros
- 14. Flan
- 15. Tres Leches Cake
Instructions
- Select your favorite sides from the list above.
- Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
- If you’re short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Serve and enjoy!
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!