Just as the perfect taco can bring people together, the right side dishes can elevate the entire experience. Imagine adding a tangy slaw or a spicy bean salad to your taco night – it’s like taking your gathering from good to great. We’ve curated 40 of the best side dishes that complement any type of taco you’re planning to serve. Whether you’re hosting a low-key get-together with friends or setting up a lively family dinner, these sides are sure to add an extra layer of flavor and fun.
From classic Mexican street corn to some delightful surprises, we’ve got you covered with all the inspiration you need to take your taco night to new heights.
Mexican Air Fryer Corn On The Cob
Fresh from the air fryer, this Mexican-inspired twist on classic corn on the cob delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. In just 10 minutes, you can have juicy and tenderly charred perfection using only pantry staples.
Healthy Homemade Guacamole Recipe
Wonderfully crafted to satisfy your cravings, this classic Mexican guacamole recipe is a game-changer for those looking for a healthy twist on a traditional favorite. Made with basic ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and packed with nutrients that will leave you feeling great. Tasty and wholesome, this homemade guacamole is the perfect addition to any meal.
Homemade Red Cabbage Slaw (perfect for Tacos and Burgers)
Join the culinary fun and indulge in the delightful combination of vibrant hues and tantalizing flavors that this Red Cabbage Slaw has to offer, all while being made without the richness of mayonnaise. This refreshing slaw is not only a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Tacos or Burgers but also makes for a great side dish at any gathering.
Roasted Garlic Blue Cheese Tarragon Mashed Potatoes
Pairing the pungency of roasted garlic with the boldness of blue cheese and the subtle aniseed flavor of tarragon creates a truly exceptional combination that’s particularly appealing to fans of blue cheese. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes as much as they adore the strong, pungent flavors of blue cheese.
Elote In A Cup (Mexican Street Corn)
Wrapped up in the vibrant culture of Mexico is a beloved street food that has captured the hearts of many: elote. This delightful dish typically consists of grilled corn on the cob slathered with a blend of creamy ingredients, including Mexican cream, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese. While traditional elote is often associated with outdoor markets and celebrations, it can now be enjoyed in a convenient cup form thanks to this easy recipe for elote en vaso.
Roasted Poblano Sauce
Packed with deep and rich flavors, this Roasted Poblano Sauce is an absolute must-have condiment for any Tex Mex enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to elevate your homemade nachos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, or tacos, this versatile sauce is the perfect accompaniment. Its subtle sweetness and slightly smoky undertones make it a game-changer for adding depth and complexity to your favorite dishes.
Refried Beans
Zest up your mealtime with a twist on traditional refried beans – enter Frijoles Puercos! This rich and indulgent recipe combines the comforting goodness of refried beans with the bold flavors of bacon, chorizo, and melted cheese to create the ultimate bean dip.
Oven Roasted Bell Peppers Recipe
Not only do these oven roasted bell peppers make for a delicious accompaniment to many different types of main dishes, but they also require very little preparation time or effort. The simplicity of this recipe is part of its charm, as it’s easy to toss the ingredients together and pop them into the oven.
Roasted Chili Corn Salsa
Loading up on flavor, this homemade Roasted Chili Corn Salsa is the perfect condiment to elevate your Mexican dishes. Made with a medley of sweet corn, roasted chilies, and spices, it’s bursting with an intense combination of spicy, tangy, and smoky flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re serving it as a topping for burritos, tacos, nachos, or simply dipping chips into it, this Roasted Chili Corn Salsa is the ultimate addition to any meal.
Skillet Charred Blackened Corn
Seasoning and caramelizing frozen or canned corn is the key to making perfectly cooked Skillet Charred Blackened Corn, a delicious and quick Cajun side dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes! This simple recipe leverages the convenience of pre-cooked corn to achieve the smoky, slightly charred flavor that’s reminiscent of traditional grilled or pan-seared corn. By following this easy method, you can add a burst of flavor to your meals without sacrificing precious time.
Easy Fresh And Fruity Mango Salsa Recipe
Loaded with the sweetness of fresh mango, this 15-minute recipe combines succulent flavors of crunchy onion, fiery jalapeño, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro to create a truly irresistible flavor experience. The perfect blend of sweet and savory, it’s an ideal accompaniment for your favorite snacks or meals.
Jalapeño Fish Taco Slaw With Chipotle Crema (No Mayo)
Zeroing in on the perfect accompaniment to your next taco craving, I’m excited to share with you a game-changing cabbage slaw recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make and utterly delicious! This no-mayo coleslaw is a total showstopper, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any type of taco – whether you’re in the mood for classic fish tacos or something entirely different.
The combination of crunchy cabbage, tangy chipotle crema, and spicy jalapeño peppers will have your taste buds doing the happy dance!
4 Ingredient Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Cumin (5-Min Prep)
Zero in on a healthier alternative to regular fries with these 4-ingredient baked sweet potato fries seasoned with cumin, which make for an easy and delicious weeknight side dish that’s sure to become your new favorite.
Pineapple Salsa Recipe
You’ll love our Pineapple Salsa Recipe, which masterfully combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of other ingredients to create a delightful and refreshing flavor experience that’s perfect for both appetizers and side dishes.
Tofu Skewers
Taking centre stage at any summer barbecue or gathering are these succulent tofu skewers, boasting an impressive medley of firm tofu, cherry tomatoes, courgettes, and peppers. The secret to their irresistible flavour lies in a delectable smoky sweet marinade crafted from a harmonious blend of oregano, garlic, paprika, tomato puree, lemon juice, and honey.
Air Fryer Tostones
Cilantro Lime Quinoa
Revamping your meal routine just got a whole lot easier, thanks to this simple yet flavorful Cilantro Lime Quinoa recipe. With just 5 essential ingredients and the option to cook it either on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, you can easily give quinoa a delicious twist that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Mexican Street Corn
Fresh from the streets of Mexico, comes a dish that’s perfect for any gathering – authentic and mouth-watering Mexican Street Corn. Whether you’re planning an outdoor party, potluck, or backyard BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and aroma. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in no time.
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Juicing the essence of authentic Mexican street corn, this mouth-watering pasta salad combines an explosion of flavors with a rich and velvety dressing. The fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy notes is sure to leave you craving for more, making it a must-try dish that will satisfy your taste buds and become a regular on your menu.
Grilled Corn Salad With Tomatoes
Celebrating the flavors of summer, a Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Tomatoes is a perfect accompaniment to any outdoor gathering, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a picnic in the park. This delightful salad features charred corn, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy zesty dressing that adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
Guacamole
Working with just a few simple and fresh ingredients, this authentic Guacamole recipe is not only delicious but also perfectly suited for various dietary needs, including being gluten-free, low-carb, keto-friendly, paleo-compliant, and even compliant with Whole 30 requirements. This means you can enjoy the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine without compromising on your health goals.
Apple Coleslaw
Fresh from the world of healthy cuisine comes a delightful twist on traditional coleslaw, Apple Coleslaw – A crispy, tangy, sweet slaw that’s not only dairy-free but also delicious. Made with whole foods and catering to specific dietary needs, this recipe is perfect for those following Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Healthy, or Whole 30 diets.
Chopped Mexican Salad
Just a few ingredients are required to make this tasty and easy-to-make Mexican chopped salad recipe, perfect as a side dish for your next fiesta or taco Tuesday gathering.
The Best Homemade Fresh Salsa
Taking the flavors of Mexico right into your own kitchen, this easy homemade salsa recipe is surprisingly simple yet incredibly delicious. Its simplicity is what makes it a staple in many homes, and its amazing taste is what will make it a favorite among family and friends alike.
Creamy Cowboy Caviar
Freshly prepared and bursting with flavor, this creamy cowboy caviar recipe is a game-changer for any snack or gathering. To make it, start by chopping up a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Once the veggies are finely chopped, mix them with your preferred sauce, be it ranch dressing, salsa, or a homemade concoction.
Mexican Corn Salad Recipe (Esquites)
Sophisticated flavors and textures come together in this Mexican corn salad recipe, blending the natural sweetness of fresh corn, the savory saltiness of crumbled cotija cheese, the pungency of cilantro, the zest of lime juice, and the spicy kick of jalapeño peppers with the richness of garlic. This vibrant and refreshing salad is a perfect reflection of the bold flavors characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
Carrot Patties
Wonderfully versatile, these carrot patties blend the sweetness of grated carrots with the heartiness of potatoes, coriander, and a light batter, all perfectly baked to create a delightful fusion. The end result is a satisfying combination of textures – crisp on the outside and creamy within. They can also be referred to as carrot fritters or even latkes.
Pico De Gallo
Often, the key to elevating a dish from ordinary to extraordinary lies in the addition of a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. In this case, Chipotle’s popular Pico de Gallo is a perfect example of how a sauce made from just tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos can add a fresh, healthy flavor to almost any meal. Its versatility makes it an ideal topping for tacos, grilled meats, vegetables, and even scrambled eggs.
Mango Corn Salsa (Quick & Easy)
Crafting the perfect salsa to complement your favorite Mexican dishes is easier than you think. Combining juicy mangoes with crunchy corn kernels creates a flavor explosion that’s both sweet and spicy. This refreshing Corn Mango Salsa pairs well with tacos, crispy tortilla chips, grilled meats, and even vegetables, adding an extra layer of excitement to any meal.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Packed with the flavors of Mexico, this delicious Mexican street corn salad is an easy and mouth-watering recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh grilled corn with the creaminess of a homemade chipotle dressing. The combination of these two ingredients creates a truly unique and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Avocado and Shrimp Salad
Nourishing your taste buds with a light and refreshing twist, this avocado shrimp salad recipe stands out for its simplicity in preparation and absence of mayonnaise, making it an ideal option as either a main course or a complement to other dishes.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Recipe
Flavorful Roasted Tomatillo Salsa is a game-changer for any Mexican food enthusiast, as it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and boasts an incredibly rich taste. Unlike traditional salsas that rely on high-calorie ingredients, this recipe utilizes roasted tomatillos, which are not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients.
Ejotes a La Mexicana (Mexican-style Green Beans)
Love them or hate them, green beans can be a polarizing ingredient in many people’s minds. However, when prepared with the right flavors and ingredients, they can become a delicious and guilt-free side dish that complements any meal perfectly. This is especially true for Ejotes a la Mexicana, which combines the natural sweetness of green beans with a burst of Mexican-inspired flavor.
The Easiest Gluten Free Spanish Rice
Here, you’ll discover how to bring authentic flavors of Spain to your table in just a few minutes. This hearty yet flavorful gluten-free Spanish rice recipe is a versatile side dish that can be served with any meal, making it an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire. With its simplicity and ease of preparation – requiring only one pot – it’s a healthy option that everyone will love.
The Best Spicy Guacamole Dip Recipe
Often considered a twist on the traditional guacamole, this spicy version adds a bold and exciting element to your favorite dip.
Pineapple Pico de Gallo
Captivating the essence of a classic Mexican dip, Pineapple Pico de Gallo offers a delightful twist with its harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Comprising only a few simple ingredients, this recipe is remarkably easy to prepare and can be whipped up in no time.
Avocado Pico De Gallo
Yearning for something fresh and new to add to your tacos or grilled meats? Avocado pico de gallo is just what you need. A creative spin on the traditional pico, this recipe combines the rich creaminess of avocados with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and lime juice, resulting in a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will elevate any dish.
Vegan Ceviche With Vine Ripe Tomatoes
Fresh and flavorful vegan options are becoming increasingly popular, and a dish that’s gained significant attention is vegan ceviche. The great thing about this recipe is that it offers the same delightful taste as traditional ceviche, without the need for seafood. One of the best aspects of vegan ceviche is its ease of preparation, requiring only common ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes.
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Making this Mexican Street Corn Casserole is incredibly easy, as it’s essentially a one-pan dish that captures all the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, minus the mess of eating off the cob. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy lime juice, and spices will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico, without leaving your kitchen.
Patatas Bravas (Spanish Fried Potatoes)
For those who love the flavors and aromas of Spain, making delicious Patatas Bravas at home is now easier than ever. This popular tapas or snack dish originates from Madrid, where it has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike for centuries. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to prepare authentic Patatas Bravas, using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques that guarantee success every time.
