10 Sides that are Best Paired with Tacos
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As a devoted taco food expert, I must confess that my love for tacos knows no bounds. Tacos have held a special place in my heart since I took my very first bite of those tantalizing flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. Over the years, I've embarked on a quest to explore the intricate world of taco craftsmanship, from savoring street tacos in Mexico City's bustling markets to creating fusion masterpieces in my own kitchen. This enduring love affair with tacos has led me to understand the importance of the perfect sides that complement these culinary treasures, and today, I'm thrilled to share with you my expertise on the 10 sides that are best paired with tacos.
Tacos are a culinary delight that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all over the world. Whether you prefer traditional street tacos, crispy shell tacos, or soft corn (how long does corn last?) tortilla tacos, there's no denying that the combination of flavorful fillings and delicious toppings is a match made in food heaven. But let's not forget the unsung heroes of the taco world: the sides. In this article, I, your trusty taco food expert, will guide you through the 10 sides that are best paired with tacos. These mouthwatering companions will take your taco experience to the next level.
Salsa
The cornerstone of any great taco experience, salsa is the ultimate sidekick. Whether it's a zesty pico de gallo, a fiery habanero salsa, or a cooling tomatillo salsa, salsa complements the flavors of your taco, adding a burst of freshness and a hint of heat.
Guacamole
Creamy, rich, and packed with healthy fats, guacamole is the perfect partner for your tacos. It brings a delightful contrast to the flavors and textures of your taco, and the velvety avocado goodness is simply irresistible. Plus, you get all the health benefits from avocados like boosting brain function, protecting your heart’s health, and a lot more.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds a cool and tangy dimension to your taco, balancing out the spiciness and enhancing the overall experience. Drizzle it over your taco, or use it as a dipping sauce for a delightful twist. This versatile taco sidekick can be enjoyed any way you like.
Cilantro and Onions
Fresh cilantro (how long does cilantro last?) and diced onions make for a classic taco topping combination. The fragrant herb and the sharp bite of onions cut through the richness of the taco fillings, creating a burst of freshness in every bite. The spike of these flavors will level out the festive flavors of tacos - allowing you to ask for seconds (or thirds).
Lime Wedges
A squeeze of fresh lime is like a burst of sunshine for your taco. The zesty acidity of lime juice adds brightness to your taco, enhancing the flavors of the fillings and toppings. Squeeze a wedge of lime into your salsa or drizzle some post-dip to give a zesty kick to a fiesta of flavors and textures.
Pickled Jalapeños
If you love your tacos with a bit of heat, pickled jalapeños are a must. Their tangy and spicy kick adds a layer of complexity to your taco, giving it that extra oomph. Think of it as a mildly hot and welcomed development everytime you munch on your favorite tacos.
Radishes
Thinly sliced radishes bring a delightful crunch to your tacos. They are mild in flavor but add a refreshing, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the various fillings. And, if you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, you can even try pairing tacos with Korean pickled radishes for a fusion of flavors.
Red Cabbage Slaw
A crunchy red cabbage slaw, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, is a fantastic way to add a pop of color and texture to your tacos. It's also a great option for those looking for a healthy side because red cabbage is rich in vitamin C to boost your immune system and rich in antioxidants to get rid of all those free-radicals.
Texas Style Refried Beans
Texas style refried beans, with their creamy consistency and comforting flavor, are a classic taco side that complements the meaty or vegetarian fillings. Us Texans are no strangers to this classic side because it’s clearly one of the meal staples in Lone Star State. They add a satisfying heartiness to your meal.
Grilled Corn
For a sweet and smoky side dish, grilled corn on the cob is a winner. A light char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, making it an ideal accompaniment to your tacos. Melt a little bit of butter or add some spices on top of your grilled corn and you got yourself a winner Tex-Mex combo.
Final thoughts
Tacos are a delicious canvas for a variety of flavors, and the sides you pair them with can elevate the experience to new heights. Whether you love the spiciness of salsa and jalapeños or the freshness of cilantro and lime, these 10 sides are the perfect companions for your taco journey. So, go ahead and explore these side options to customize your taco experience and savor the true essence of this beloved culinary masterpiece. Enjoy your taco adventure, one bite at a time!
