The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Tacos
Top Pairings for Your Mexican Feast
Tacos bring a vibrant edge to dinner time, with their bold flavors and endless possibilities for customization. While the filling is undoubtedly the star, side dishes can elevate the entire taco experience. Sides serve a dual purpose: complementing the main attraction with flavors that resonate and stand out, and providing a variety of textures that balance each bite.
From the refreshing crunch of a tangy slaw to the comforting warmth of seasoned rice and beans, the right accompaniments can transform a simple taco meal into a feast. Thoughtfully selected sides aren't just fillers; they round out the meal, ensuring every element on the table contributes to an enjoyable and complete dining experience. Whether it's an impromptu taco Tuesday or a full-blown fiesta, choosing the best side dishes is essential for a memorable and satisfying meal.
Fundamentals of Taco Side Dishes
When planning a taco night, the side dishes selected should enhance the tacos' flavors and add contrasting textures that elevate the overall meal.
Understanding Side Dishes
When considering side dishes for tacos, one should always ensure that the options provide a balance to the rich and often spicy nature of tacos. Typical taco accompaniments include rice and beans, which serve as hearty, neutral bases. On the other hand, crunchy vegetables like cabbage or bell peppers (What wine goes well with bell peppers?) add a fresh crispness that complements the soft tortillas and fillings of tacos. Side dishes should not overshadow the main dish; rather, they should support the tacos by supplementing with additional nutrients and varied textures.
Complementary Flavors for Tacos
Tacos are known for their bold flavors which come from ingredients such as cumin, chili powder, and lime. Side dishes like cilantro-lime rice or a fresh coleslaw with a punch of lime can mirror these flavors in a subtler way. A side such as a Tex-Mex salad not only provides a cool and creamy contrast with avocados but also includes complementary elements like sweet corn, which pairs well with the savory taste of taco meat.
In sum, when crafting the perfect taco night menu, one should select sides that are harmonious in flavor and provide a variety of textures to enrich the taco-eating experience.
Popular Sides: Classics and Twists
When it comes to taco night, the right side dishes can transform a simple meal into a vibrant feast. This section navigates through time-honored favorites as well as creative combinations that bring new life to the table.
Traditional Mexican Sides
Mexican Rice: Often referred to as Spanish rice, this fluffy and colorful rice dish is a taco night staple. It's typically seasoned with tomato and a blend of cumin, garlic, and chili powders. Arroz Verde, or green rice, which incorporates herbs like cilantro and often a puree of green peppers or chilies, offers a flavorful twist on the classic rice side.
Refried Beans: A comfort food classic, refried beans provide a creamy texture and rich flavor. They are usually mashed and cooked with spices and onions, (What wine goes well with onions?) making them a hearty addition to any taco spread.
Black Beans: These can be served simply cooked or refried, seasoned with spices, and sometimes enhanced with fresh ingredients like peppers or onions.
Salsas and Dips:
Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It's refreshing and adds a zesty flavor to tacos.
Guacamole: A creamy, rich dip composed of mashed avocados mixed with seasonings, lime juice, and sometimes tomato and onion.
Classic Side Description Pairing Note Mexican Rice Seasoned with tomatoes and spices Suits any taco variety. Refried Beans Creamy beans mashed with spices Complements beef or chicken tacos. Pico de Gallo Fresh salsa with tomatoes and cilantro Adds freshness to fish tacos. Guacamole Avocado-based creamy dip Ideal for a rich contrast with spicy tacos.
Innovative Pairings
Cilantro Lime Rice: This refreshing take on traditional rice invigorates with bright citrus and herbaceous notes. It provides a light side option that balances out the richness of tacos laden with cheese and meats.
Chips and Dips: Going beyond the classic salsas, consider offering dips like corn salsa or bean dip, which present a medley of textures and flavors.
A Pepper Salad, combining various colored peppers and red onions tossed with a dressing of vinegar and oil, introduces a crunchy texture and can be sprinkled with cheese such as Cotija or feta.
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: A side of cornbread infused with cheddar cheese and jalapeno provides a comforting and slightly spicy pairing that diversified the traditional taco meal experience.
Experimentation is welcomed within taco accompaniments, inviting an array of flavors and textures to complement the main dish. Whether sticking to the classic sides or venturing into novel culinary territory, the sides serve to enhance and amplify the taco experience.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
Selecting the right cooking method can enhance the flavors and textures of side dishes for tacos. Here, we explore techniques for using a slow cooker, mastering the Instant Pot, and optimizing the air fryer to create sides that complement any taco feast.
Using a Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is ideal for creating rich flavors over extended cook times without constant supervision. Side dishes such as pinto beans become tender and deeply seasoned when cooked slowly. One can begin by rinsing the beans and then combining them with seasonings like cumin and chili powder in the slow cooker. Add enough water to cover the beans and cook on low for 6-8 hours, checking occasionally for desired tenderness.
Mastering the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot can significantly reduce the cooking time for sides such as refried beans, while ensuring they remain flavorful. A crucial tip is to soak pinto beans overnight to speed up the cooking process. To prepare, one would drain the beans, then add them into the Instant Pot with fresh water, garlic, and onions. Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes, then use the natural release method before mashing the beans to the preferred consistency and seasoning to taste.
Optimizing the Air Fryer
The air fryer provides a method to create lighter and crispier sides, such as tortilla chips, with less oil. To optimize its use, one should cut corn tortillas into triangles, lightly coat them with oil and a sprinkle of salt. They should be arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. By cooking them at 350Ā°F for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, one achieves a satisfying crunch with minimal fat.
Vegetables and Legumes
When choosing side dishes to complement tacos, vegetables and legumes offer nourishment, variety, and depth of flavor. These sides can range from savory beans to sweet and spicy corn salads (What wine goes well with salads?), each providing a balance to the rich tastes of traditional taco fillings.
Beans as a Staple
Mexican Black Beans and Refried Black Beans are classic pairings with tacos. They serve as hearty, protein-rich sides that satisfy and complement the main dish. For a quick preparation, Mexican Black Beans can be simmered with onions, garlic, and spices until tender and flavorful. Refried Black Beans take it a step further, mashed and cooked with a touch of oil, they become a creamy and indulgent side.
Mexican Black Beans
Cook with: Cumin, onion, garlic
Serve with: Cilantro, lime wedges
Refried Black Beans
Mash and cook with: Olive oil, seasoned salt
Top with: Shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Corn Variations
A versatile vegetable, corn provides sweetness that contrasts well with savory tacos. Corn Salad, prepared with fresh corn, lime juice, and chili powder, is a bright and zesty choice. Black Bean and Corn Salsa, where corn meets legumes, brings a wholesome interplay of textures and flavors, with the added robustness of black beans.
Corn Salad
Ingredients: Corn kernels, lime juice, chili powder, fresh cilantro
Preparation: Mix and chill before serving
Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Ingredients: Black beans, corn, red onion, jalapeƱo, lime dressing
Suggestion: Great as a topping or a standalone side
Healthy Vegetable Options
For sides that bring a refreshing crunch and nutrition, vegetables like Mexican Sweet Potatoes and Calabacitas can't be overlooked. Sweet potatoes, roasted with a blend of Mexican spices, become a sweet and smoky complement. In contrast, Calabacitas, a sautƩed mix of summer squash, corn, and peppers, is a light and healthful option brimming with the fresh essence of vegetables.
Mexican Sweet Potatoes
Season with: Paprika, cayenne, garlic powder
Roast until: Crisp outside, tender inside
Calabacitas
Combine: Zucchini, yellow squash, corn, bell peppers
Cook until: Vibrantly colored and just tender
Condiments and Toppings
Taco night transforms into a vibrant and flavorful feast with the right selection of condiments and toppings. They offer a combination of textures, temperatures, and flavors that are integral to creating the ultimate taco experience.
Salsas and Dips
Guacamole: A staple in taco accompaniments, guacamole starts with ripe avocados mashed with lime juice and salt. Enhancements like diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro elevate its flavor.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa balances the richness of tacos with its simple mix of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
7 Layer Dip: For a multi-textured experience, this dip layers refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and more, delivering a burst of flavors.
Cheese and Cream Additions
Sour Cream: Adding a dollop of sour cream provides a cooling effect that tames the heat in spicy taco fillings.
Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese melts to give a smooth and creamy texture. Common choices include cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
Feta and Cotija Cheese: These crumbly cheeses add a salty punch and can be sprinkled over tacos for a finishing touch. Feta offers a tangy sharpness, while Cotija imparts a milder, nutty flavor.
Salads and Slaws
When selecting salads and slaws to complement tacos, it's essential to balance flavors and textures. A good side dish should contrast with the main course yet be strong enough to stand on its own. Fresh ingredients and vibrant dressings are the hallmarks of these accompaniments.
Mexican-Style Salads
Tex-Mex Salad: This vibrant salad incorporates crunchy bell peppers, sweet corn, and creamy avocados. With ripe tomatoes and crisp romaine lettuce, the Tex-Mex Salad presents a fresh and colorful addition to any taco spread.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Also known as 'elotes', this salad features grilled corn off the cob mixed with a tangy and creamy dressing. A dusting of cotija cheese and a hint of chili powder give it an authentic Mexican flair.
Creative Slaws for Contrast
Cilantro Lime Salad: This slaw uses a bright, citrus-based vinaigrette with plenty of chopped cilantro. The addition of lime brings a zesty flavor that perfectly offsets the richness of tacos.
Mexican Coleslaw: A traditional taco slaw might include shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions. Itās adorned with a dressing highlighting cilantro and limeāideal for adding a refreshing crunch to a taco or as a stand-alone side.
Each salad offers distinct textures and flavors, such as the creaminess of avocados or the bite of onion, for a well-rounded taco experience.
Grains and Carbohydrates
In a well-curated taco meal, grains and carbohydrates provide a satisfying base that complements the bold flavors of the taco fillings. Rice varieties are classics, while alternative grains offer a creative twist or cater to dietary preferences.
Rice Varieties
Mexican Rice: Often synonymous with Spanish rice, this staple side is typically tinged with a vibrant red hue from tomatoes and infused with garlic and onions. It's not only a flavor enhancer but also a comforting element on the plate.
Spanish Rice Recipe: Unlike the simpler white rice, Spanish rice is cooked with a blend of broth, tomato sauce, and a savory mix of spices like cumin and chili powder, which can transform any taco dish into a heartier meal.
Alternative Grains
Quinoa: A nutrient-dense grain that provides a lighter, protein-rich alternative to rice. It can be seasoned with traditional taco spices to blend seamlessly with the flavors of your main dish.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative gaining popularity, cauliflower rice can be seasoned to mimic traditional Mexican rice or kept plain to offer a subtle counterpoint to spicier taco fillings.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice: Complete with the warm spices found in traditional Mexican rice, this option brings the same zest and color to the plate while catering to those looking for a grain-free choice.
Each grain and carbohydrate option offers a unique texture and flavor profile, ensuring that they contribute to the overall dining experience without overpowering the main event: the tacos themselves.
Fruits and Sweet Sides
Tacos pair wonderfully with the vibrant flavors of fruit, especially when introduced in the form of salsas or sweet accompaniments. These fresh, juicy options can bring a delightful contrast to the rich, savory notes of tacos.
Tropical Fruit Salsas
A tropical fruit salsa, such as mango salsa or pineapple salsa, is a perfect complement to any taco dish. These salsas typically include diced fruit like mango and pineapple, combining them with ingredients like red onion, cilantro, jalapeƱo, and fresh lime juice for a burst of sweetness and acidity that brightens the palate.
Mango Salsa: Mango's lush sweetness plays against the heat of chili peppers and the brightness of fresh cilantro. Chop ripe mangos and mix with diced red onions, jalapeƱo, a squeeze of lime, and cilantro leaves.
Fresh Pineapple Salsa: Pineapple offers a zesty tang, ideal for cutting through richer taco fillings. Combine chunks of fresh pineapple with lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced red onions, and finely diced chili peppers for a refreshing side.
Sweet Side Suggestions
Not only salsas but other fruity dishes also serve as excellent sides for tacos. Incorporating fruits into the meal provides a light and refreshing balance to the meal, complementing the textures and flavors of traditional savory sides.
Grilled Pineapple: Slices of pineapple become caramelized and even sweeter when grilled, making them a perfect side dish. Sprinkle with a touch of chili powder for an extra kick.
Fruit Salads with a Citrus Dressing: Create a simple fruit salad by combining various fruits with a citrus-based dressing. This salad can offer a cooling reprieve from the spices of taco toppings.
Special Dietary Considerations
When planning taco accompaniments, it's important to cater to guests with specific dietary needs. This means including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to ensure everyone at the table can enjoy a complete meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy a variety of side dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful. Arroz Verde is a vegetarian green rice that can be easily made vegan by substituting any dairy or animal-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Another excellent choice is Grilled Portobello Mushrooms (What wine goes well with grilled portobello mushrooms?); their meaty texture provides a substantial side and their savory notes pair well with any taco variety. For extra depth, one can add a mixture of bell peppers and onions, topped with either Cotija cheese for vegetarians or a vegan cheese substitute for those avoiding animal products.
Vegetarian Sides:
Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Bell Peppers
Vegan Arroz Verde (substitute cheese)
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with vegan cheese alternative
Borracho beans without animal products
Gluten-Free Accompaniments
Gluten-free guests need not miss out on the side dish fun. Many traditional sides like Pico de Gallo and Borracho Beans are naturally gluten-free and full of fresh flavors that complement tacos. For those who enjoy a bit of heat and crunch, a Healthy Coleslaw with jalapeƱo provides a gluten-free topping or side. Individuals looking for a hearty addition can turn to burrito bowls which can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring all sauces and ingredients used are free of gluten.
Gluten-Free Sides:
Pico de Gallo
Borracho Beans
Healthy Coleslaw
Gluten-free Burrito Bowls (ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are used)
By offering a variety of dishes that cater to these dietary restrictions, one ensures that all guests have delicious and suitable options to accompany their tacos.
Planning and Serving
When hosting a taco night, whether it's a casual Taco Tuesday or a larger gathering, a well-planned taco bar can offer guests a personalized meal while serving a crowd efficiently. The setup should be intuitive and the offerings ample for a complete, satisfying experience.
Arranging a Taco Bar
For Taco Tuesday or any taco-themed event, setting up a taco bar allows guests to create their perfect taco combination. One should start with plates and utensils at the beginning of the bar, followed by tortillas and taco shells. Next, arrange the hot filling options, which might include seasoned meats, tofu, or fish. Following that, organize a range of toppings in the order they are typically used; for example:
Cheeses: Shredded cheddar, Monterrey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
Vegetables: Lettuce, diced tomatoes, and onions.
Extras: JalapeƱos, cilantro, and a variety of salsas.
Sauces: Sour cream, guacamole, and hot sauce.
Place a stack of napkins at the end of the bar along with extra utensils, ensuring guests leave the station with everything they need for their meal.
Serving a Crowd
To feed a crowd effectively during events like Cinco de Mayo celebrations, providing a diverse array of side dishes is essential. Sides should be kept in large serving bowls or trays which can be replenished easily. Consider these crowd-pleasing options that efficiently complement a taco bar for a complete meal:
Arroz Verde: A zesty Mexican green rice that can be prepared quickly using microwaveable rice.
Corn Salsa: Fresh and zesty, ideal for adding to tacos or enjoying with chips.
JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread: A filling side that is both comforting and adds a twist to the traditional taco setup.
Guests can also appreciate other sides such as Borracho beans and Velveeta chili cheese dip for additional variety. Ensure each side dish is labeled clearly if guests have dietary restrictions or preferences. Keep the flow of the taco bar in mind, with sides placed either at the end of the station or on a separate table to avoid congestion. For larger groups, doubling up on popular items can minimize wait times and keep the meal progressing smoothly.
Event-Themed Sides
When planning your taco feast, the right side dishes can enhance the theme of your event. Whether it's the vibrant festival of Cinco de Mayo or the energetic buzz of game day, certain sides can elevate the occasion, making the meal memorable.
Cinco de Mayo Favorites
Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican heritage and pride, and nothing pairs better with tacos on this day than Chips and Salsa. A colorful and spirited side, chips and salsa are easy to prepare and can be made with a variety of salsasāfrom classic tomato to mango or even pineapple, for a sweet twist.
Arroz Verde:
Bright and flavorful, green rice complements any Cinco de Mayo spread.
Quick to prepare, especially when using microwaveable rice.
Texas Caviar:
A zesty mix of beans, corn, and bell peppers, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
This side dish doubles as a dip, providing a hearty option for guests.
Game Day Snacks
Game day gatherings call for easy-to-eat, casual sides that guests can enjoy while focusing on the game. Robust flavors and finger-foods dominate the menu, making the dining experience as exciting as the game itself.
Healthy Coleslaw:
A slaw with a mix of cilantro, lime, onions, and jalapeƱo delivers freshness and a crunch.
Can be served as a side or heaped on top of tacos to add texture.
Grilled Avocados:
Halved avocados brushed with oil and grilled for a smoky flavor.
Served as a unique, creamy addition to the game day taco bar.
Conclusion
When planning the perfect taco night, one's selection of side dishes elevates the overall dining experience. Sides should complement the flavors of the tacos while providing a range of textures and tastes. Cilantro lime slaw and pico de gallo offer fresh, zesty flavors, while pickled red onions provide an acidic balance to richer taco fillings.
For heartier options that can hold their own alongside tacos, consider Borracho beans or a classic combination of black beans and rice. Both options infuse comfort and substance into the meal. One should not forget a side of JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread, which introduces a savory, cheesy component to the table.
Vegetables shouldn't be overlooked, with roasted fajita veggies adding smokiness and elotes, or Mexican street corn, offering a creamy and spicy side that's hard to resist. For texture, healthy coleslaw can bring a satisfying crunch.
It's also pleasing to finish with a sweet touch, and traditional desserts like sopapillas or churros can successfully round out the dining experience. Here's a quick reference:
Fresh Sides: Cucumber avocado salad, cilantro lime slaw, pico de gallo
Hearty Sides: Borracho beans, black beans and rice, JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread
Vegetable Sides: Roasted fajita veggies, elotes
Sweet Finish: Sopapillas, churros
These side dishes are more than just accompanimentsāthey're integral components that can transform a simple taco meal into a memorable feast.
