If you’re pondering what delightful dishes to accompany your tacos, your search ends here! Friend, I’ve compiled a list of simple yet sensational side dishes perfect for taco night. These recipes, thoroughly tested and approved, go beyond the usual rice and beans, promising to transform your taco experience.
Pinterest pin for sides to serve with tacos post
Elevate Your Taco Night: Discover the Best Taco Side Dishes
Taco Tuesday, Cinco de Mayo, or simply a fun weeknight dinner – tacos are always a hit. The star of the show is undoubtedly the flavorful fillings and the joy of assembling your own perfect bite. For my family and when we entertain guests, a taco bar is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially with kids! The self-serve style makes it easy and fun for everyone.
But when planning a taco feast, I often find myself wondering, “What should I serve with tacos besides just the tacos themselves?” While traditional taco accompaniments like chiles, lime, cilantro, and onions are essential, what about complete side dishes to create a well-rounded meal? I’m often asked, “What are good sides for steak tacos?” or “What pairs well with shrimp tacos?”
This brings us to this curated list: 25 amazing side dishes to serve with tacos, perfectly timed for your Cinco de Mayo celebrations or any taco craving!
Fresh garden salsa recipe in a bowl with chips
Let’s move beyond the typical queso, bean dip, and store-bought salsa. We’re diving into a world of exciting side dishes and innovative taco toppings that will elevate your taco experience from simply good to “Wow, can we have this again tomorrow?!”
Think creamy avocado crema and zesty salsas, Mexican street corn prepared in diverse ways – from classic grilled corn on the cob to a flavorful bowl of esquites, satisfying rice dishes, hearty charro beans, and so much more! These are truly some of my absolute favorite side dishes.
All these sides pair wonderfully with crispy, cheesy birria tacos, which, honestly, are among my all-time favorite tacos.
And that mango salsa is an absolute dream with tacos, especially seafood tacos. A match made in culinary heaven!
And if you’re seeking more Mexican culinary inspiration, explore my collection of delicious flavored margarita recipes and festive Cinco de Mayo recipes.
Must-Try Taco Side Dish Recipes
Overhead shot of roasted chili corn salsa in a bowl
Roasted Chili Corn Salsa (Chipotle Copycat Recipe)
For those who crave bold flavors and a touch of heat, this roasted chili corn salsa, inspired by Chipotle, is a must-try! The smoky poblano peppers, sweet corn, and tangy lime juice create a symphony of taste and texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips or spooning it onto your favorite tacos, this easy corn salsa recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Mexican Rice in a white bowl
Mexican Rice
Elevate your taco night with a serving of flavorful Mexican Rice, also known as Arroz Rojo! Bursting with the rich taste of tomatoes, aromatic spices, and savory broth, this easy-to-make rice dish is the quintessential addition to any taco bar. Don’t miss out on this essential and flavorful complement to your favorite tacos!
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil with Cilantro-Lime Butter
Grilled Corn on the Cob (in Foil) with Cilantro-Lime Butter
Embrace the fresh flavors of summer with incredibly delicious grilled corn on the cob coated in a vibrant garlic cilantro lime butter. This is the ideal side dish for any outdoor taco night during the warmer months. Simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Pineapple Pico De Gallo in a white bowl
Pineapple Pico De Gallo
This Pineapple Pico de Gallo recipe is a fantastic and refreshing side dish for tacos. The juicy sweetness of pineapple combined with the savory salsa ingredients creates a perfectly balanced and fresh complement to richer, meaty tacos.
Fajita Veggies in a skillet
Fajita Veggies (Chipotle Copycat)
Spice up your next taco night with these easy and flavorful fajita veggies! Using just a few simple ingredients, this side dish for tacos is incredibly versatile and complements any protein you choose – steak, chicken, or seafood.
Mexican Coleslaw in a bowl
Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
One of the best side dishes for taco night is this incredibly flavorful Mexican coleslaw recipe! Loaded with crisp cabbage, zesty red onion, fragrant cilantro, and warm cumin, this slaw is a definite winner. Whether served as a refreshing side dish or a crunchy topping for your tacos, this coleslaw is sure to impress!
Cactus Salad or Nopales Salad in a bowl
Cactus Salad
Prepare delicious and authentic Nopales salad, a classic Mexican recipe featuring tender cactus paddles. Enjoy it as a unique summer side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats, or add it to your tacos and burritos for a flavorful and slightly tangy filling.
Blue Corn Tortillas stacked
Blue Corn Tortillas
Elevate your entire taco experience with homemade blue corn tortillas! With their distinctive, subtly sweet flavor and beautiful vibrant color, they are guaranteed to take your meals beyond ordinary white corn or flour tortillas. Perfect for adding a touch of unique flavor to your tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas.
Refried Beans in a bowl, restaurant style
The Best Restaurant Style Refried Beans
These refried pinto beans are truly restaurant-quality, boasting a luxuriously creamy texture and incredibly mouthwatering flavor thanks to the aromatic ingredients and spices. Say goodbye to bland canned refried beans – this homemade dish is in a league of its own!
Mexican Beans or Frijoles de la Olla in a pot
Mexican Beans (Frijoles de la Olla)
Packed with nutritious plant-based protein and fiber, these delicious Mexican black beans can be prepared with just four simple ingredients and minimal hands-on cooking time. While the stovetop method is easy, using an Instant Pot significantly speeds up the cooking process, making it even more convenient.
Avocado Pico de Gallo in a bowl
Fresh Avocado Pico de Gallo
With creamy avocados, ripe tomatoes, and zesty lime, this avocado pico de gallo is guaranteed to enhance all the delicious flavors of your taco dinner. Once you try this vibrant Mexican dish, it’s sure to become a staple on your summer menu.
Fresh garden salsa recipe in a bowl with chips
Easy Homemade Salsa with Fresh Tomatoes
Get ready to savor this incredibly flavorful garden salsa recipe all summer long. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips as a mouthwatering appetizer at your next outdoor barbecue or taco party.
Guacamole in a bowl with chips
4 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe
(Image already used above, no need to repeat)
Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn on a plate
Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
Indulge in delicious air-fried Mexican street corn this summer! This must-have Mexican side dish is made with fresh corn on the cob, creamy mayonnaise, flavorful seasonings, and gooey cheese. This recipe is incredibly easy to make when hosting a taco bar, and your guests won’t be able to resist the burst of flavors in each ear of corn.
Roasted Jalapeno Salsa in a jar
Homemade Roasted Jalapeno Salsa Recipe
Prepare to be amazed by the incredible taste of this roasted jalapeno salsa, the perfect accompaniment to your favorite taco recipe. The roasted jalapenos bring a smoky and savory depth that will elevate this salsa to new heights. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch because it will disappear quickly!
Mexican Bean Salad in a bowl
Mexican Bean Salad Recipe
Mexican Bean Salad is a fantastic and vibrant side dish for taco night! Packed with three types of beans and a medley of crisp vegetables, all tossed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde in a bowl
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde
This flavorful roasted tomatillo salsa is perfect served with tortilla chips or as a mild and tangy addition to your tacos! Roasting the tomatillos truly enhances their natural sweetness, while the jalapeño pepper provides just the right amount of heat. You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño to suit your preference.
Avocado Lime Crema in a bowl
Easy Avocado Lime Crema with Cilantro
Guacamole lovers will adore this Avocado Lime Crema! It’s incredibly smooth, tangy, and super easy to make with just a handful of basic ingredients. Made with luscious avocado, cooling sour cream, warm cumin and chili powder, and a squeeze of tart lime juice, this irresistible condiment is my favorite taco topping and chip dip with its fresh and vibrant flavors. You’ll want to drizzle it on everything!
Creamy Jalapeno Sauce in a bowl
Creamy Jalapeno Sauce Copycat
Make homemade creamy jalapeno sauce to drizzle over your tacos, inspired by the iconic Taco Bell quesadilla sauce. This flavorful blend of ranch dressing, jalapenos, and spices creates a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that will take your taco experience to new heights.
Mexican Fruit Cups with Tajin
Mexican Fruit Cups
Experience the vibrant and refreshing flavors of Mexico right at home with Mexican Fruit Cups, topped with tangy lime juice and a sprinkle of zesty Tajin seasoning. This is a lighter and refreshing side or even a dessert option to balance out a hearty taco meal.
Cowboy Caviar with Avocado in a bowl
Cowboy Caviar with Avocado
You simply can’t go wrong with Cowboy Caviar with Avocado – it’s a tried-and-true side dish for tacos that consistently impresses. This vibrant appetizer, packed with red onions, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, black beans, and spicy jalapeno, is tossed in a flavorful dressing of red wine vinegar and zesty lime juice. It always receives rave reviews!
Charro Beans in a pot
Charro Beans
These amazing Charro Beans are simmered in a deliciously rich and flavorful broth with bacon, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and other tasty ingredients. These pinto beans are a must-have addition to any authentic Mexican feast! Whether you choose to cook these mouthwatering Mexican Charro Beans on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, you’re in for a real treat.
Taquera Salsa in a small bowl
Easy Spicy Taquera Salsa Recipe
This savory and spicy orange salsa recipe is nearly identical to the kind served at any traditional Mexican taqueria! Packed with ripe tomatoes, vibrant spices, and just the right amount of heat from chilis, it perfectly livens up your tacos!
Borracho Beans in a pot
Borracho Beans
These Borracho Beans, also known as Cowboy Beans, are loaded with robust spices, dark lager beer, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeño. This hearty dish is definitely one of the best side dishes you can serve alongside tacos!
Cilantro Lime Rice in a rice cooker
Cilantro Lime Rice (Rice Cooker)
Learn how to make Chipotle’s signature cilantro lime rice right in your rice cooker and create your own burrito bowl at home! It’s the perfect side dish to accompany any of your tacos or grilled meats, infused with plenty of fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice.
Bonus: Best Drinks to Serve with Tacos!
Okay, I couldn’t just leave you with food ideas! We need some refreshing beverages to complete the taco night experience, right? Consider pairing your taco feast with classic margaritas, refreshing agua frescas, Mexican beer, or even a simple and satisfying iced tea.
If you try any of these recipes, be sure to leave a rating and comment on their original post to show the creators some love! And let me know in the comments which side dishes were your favorites!
See you in the next post!
