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Katie's Cucina » Mexican

What to Serve with Tacos

Published: May 1, 2023 · Modified: Apr 3, 2024 by Katie · This post may contain affiliate links

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Ever wonder what to serve with tacos? I’m here to share a wide variety of versatile and popular options which include chips and salsa, rice and beans, grilled vegetables, Mexican street corn, salad, margaritas and more!

Four photos; corn, salsa, rice, and corn tomato salad with recipe title on image for Pinterest.

If there is one food I love it’s a good taco. Since we love Mexican food in my home, and specifically tacos, I figured I would share some of my favorite sides for tacos.

Tacos are a beloved dish that originated in Mexico but has since spread throughout the world. They are made with a variety of fillings, from grilled chicken, ground beef, to sautéed vegetables to seafood tacos like mahi mahi tacos. Tacos are typically served in soft flour tortillas, homemade corn tortillas or hard tortillas. The toppings range of garnishes, such as salsa, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream.

If you’re planning a taco night with friends or family, you might be wondering what to serve alongside these delicious little parcels. In this blog post, we’ll explore some great options to complement your tacos and make your meal complete.

Jump to:
  • FAQs about Sides for Tacos
  • Expert Tips and Tricks
  • Chips and Dip Recipes
  • Air Fryer Tortilla Chips
  • Salsa Dip for Nachos
  • Velveeta Cheese Dip
  • 4 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe
  • Peach Salsa
  • Chipotle Cashew Queso Dip
  • Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dip
  • Chunky Avocado Salsa recipe
  • Watermelon Salsa
  • Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde
  • Pineapple Pico de Gallo
  • Rice and Bean Recipes
  • Mexican Red Rice
  • Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower “Rice”
  • Ranchero Beans
  • Black Bean Corn Tomato Salad
  • Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
  • Mango Quinoa Salad
  • Instant Pot Black Beans
  • Bacon Refried Beans
  • Black Bean Mango Salad
  • Mexican Vegetable Side Dish
  • Mexican Street Corn Salad
  • Crispy Baked Avocado Fries & Chipotle Dipping Sauce
  • Pickled Red Onion
  • Grilled Mexican Street Corn
  • Mexican Roasted Zucchini
  • Tomato Avocado Salad
  • Mexican Roasted Cauliflower
  • Mexican Sweet Corn Cakes
  • Roasted Mexican Sweet Potatoes
  • Taco Recipes

FAQs about Sides for Tacos

What are the traditional sides to serve with tacos?

Traditional sides to serve with tacos include rice, refried beans, and chips and salsa.

Are there any healthy sides that go well with tacos?

Yes, there are plenty of healthy sides that go well with tacos, such as grilled vegetables, a side salad, or a fresh fruit salsa.

Can I serve dips with my tacos?

Absolutely! Dips like guacamole, queso, and salsa are great options to serve alongside your tacos.

What are some creative sides to serve with tacos?

Some creative sides to serve with tacos include grilled street corn, black bean and corn salad, or cilantro lime rice.

What sides go well with specific types of tacos, such as fish tacos or chicken tacos?

For fish tacos, sides like pineapple salsa, mango slaw, or a citrus salad are great options. For chicken tacos, sides like Spanish rice, pico de gallo, or avocado crema are delicious complements.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Here are some of my expert tips and tricks on to help you create a memorable taco spread that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Variety is Key: Offering a variety of taco fillings ensures that there’s something for everyone at the table. Consider including options such as grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef, shrimp, or roasted vegetables to cater to different preferences and dietary restrictions. Set up a taco bar with an array of toppings and condiments, allowing guests to customize their tacos to their liking.

Balance Flavors and Textures: When planning your taco spread, aim for a balance of flavors and textures to create a harmonious dining experience. Pair savory fillings with fresh and zesty accompaniments like salsas, guacamole, and coleslaw to add brightness and contrast. Incorporate crunchy elements such as toasted seeds or crispy tortilla strips to provide texture and depth to your tacos.

Make Ahead and Batch Cook: To streamline the cooking process and minimize stress on taco night, prepare components of your meal in advance. Marinate meats, chop vegetables, and make salsas and sauces ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use. Consider batch cooking proteins like shredded chicken or beef ahead of time and reheating them just before serving to save time and effort.

Don’t Forget the Tortillas: The quality of your tortillas can make or break your tacos, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Opt for fresh, soft corn or flour tortillas from your local bakery or tortilleria for the best flavor and texture. Warm your tortillas before serving by briefly heating them on a dry skillet or in the microwave to make them pliable and enhance their taste.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Adding fresh herbs and citrus to your tacos and side dishes can elevate their flavors and brighten up the entire meal. Keep a variety of herbs like cilantro, parsley, and mint on hand to garnish your tacos and salads just before serving. Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over your dishes to add acidity and enhance the other flavors.

Chips and Dip Recipes

Mexican chips and dip recipes are a delicious and flavorful addition to any party or gathering. Popular Mexican dips include guacamole, salsa roja, salsa verde, and queso dip. Tortilla chips are the perfect dipping option for these dips and can be served alongside other Mexican-inspired appetizers like taquitos, tamales, or mini tacos. Below you will find some of my favorite recipes.

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

White bowl filled with corn tortilla chips with cilantro and dip in background.
Transform corn tortillas using the Air Fryer to make fresh tortilla chips in minutes. Crispy crunchy and tastes just like you get at the restaurant.
Check out this recipe

If you’re searching for a snack that’s both crunchy and flavorful without any guilt attached, then air fryer tortilla chips are the perfect solution! Plus, the best part is you can get creative with your toppings and dips to suit your taste buds. So why stick with boring old potato chips when you can have a fun and tasty fiesta in your mouth?

Salsa Dip for Nachos

yellow bowl filled with salsa with cilantro and chips on the side.
Do you love the flavors of Mexican restaurant style salsa? Make my homemade salsa recipe using fresh ingredients and spices found in your pantry blended in a food processor in just 10 minutes time! This salsa dip for nachos is the perfect edition to any fiesta.
Check out this recipe

Velveeta Cheese Dip

Female hand holding a tortilla chip over a bowl of queso dip.
Learn how to make this delicious Velveeta cheese dip recipe that needs just 2 ingredients and is done in under 10 minutes! This cheesy appetizer will be a new family favorite.
Check out this recipe

If you’re looking for a cheesy and zesty dip that’s easy to make and impossible to resist, then Velveeta cheese dip with Rotel is the perfect crowd-pleaser! With its velvety texture and bold flavor, this dip is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. I know my friends and family can’t get enough of this cheese dip. Take your dip game up a notch with this deliciously addictive Velveeta cheese dip?

4 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe

a yellow bowl filled with guacamole with diced tomato and onion on top
Gather just a few basic ingredients to make my 4 Ingredient Guacamole that is made in under 10 minutes time. This avocado dip is perfect to serve as an appetizer with chips or as a side dish to accompany tacos!
Check out this recipe

If you’re searching for a healthy and flavorful snack that the whole family will love, then homemade guacamole with cilantro is the way to go! Packed with healthy fats and fresh ingredients, this dip is perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on toast. Plus, making it from scratch is a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen and teach them how to make salsa.

Peach Salsa

Peach Salsa
Combine fresh peaches, ripe plum tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create the ultimate peach salsa recipe from scratch. Perfect to dip with a chip, top on fish, or even spread on a taco!
Check out this recipe

Chipotle Cashew Queso Dip

Chipotle Cashew Queso Dip
Just four ingredients stand between you and an easy blender batch of creamy chipotle cashew queso dip! Vegan friendly for the masses!
Check out this recipe

Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dip

Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dip Recipe
This recipe for my creamy Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dip is the perfect recipe to add to your taco Tuesday or next fiesta!
Check out this recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dip that’s perfect for snacking or as a condiment, then homemade cilantro lime yogurt dip is the answer! Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and fresh herbs, this dip is a great source of protein and nutrients. Plus, its tangy and zesty flavor is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Chunky Avocado Salsa recipe

Chunky Avocado Salsa recipe
This Chunky Avocado Salsa recipe is made with a few super simple fresh ingredients and is so quick and easy to whip up last minute. You’ll be making this allllll summer long!
Check out this recipe

Watermelon Salsa

Blue bowl with watermelon salsa inside with a spoon.
Watermelon salsa is the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. It’s the perfect salsa to entertain with  during the hot summer months. This salsa is easy to make and requires all fresh ingredients that are currently in season!
Check out this recipe

If you’re searching for a refreshing and healthy snack that the whole family will love, then homemade watermelon salsa is the perfect choice! Packed with juicy watermelon, tangy lime, and fresh herbs, this salsa is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer. My kids love making this recipe– it’s easy why not get the kids involved in making it. I always find that if my child doesn’t like a food I’ll have them help me prepare it and most of the time they end up eating it and loving it. Cooking is always a great way to introduce kids to new foods, like yicama.

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde
This roasted tomatillo salsa verde is my go-to recipe. You can adjust the spiciness to your taste by adding more or less jalapeño.
Check out this recipe

Pineapple Pico de Gallo

Pineapple Pico de Gallo
Pineapple Pico de Gallo! Sweet pineapple adds a tropical touch to this fresh and easy salsa that’s perfect as an appetizer or a condiment!
Check out this recipe

Rice and Bean Recipes

Mexican Red Rice

Green pot with rice inside of it.
Craving that Mexican red rice you get at your favorite restaurant? This flavorful Mexican Red Rice recipe brings that same rich, savory taste to your own kitchen—no takeout needed. Made in under an hour, this large-batch recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead. It’s the perfect Mexican side dish to freeze and reheat for effortless meals later!
Check out this recipe

Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower “Rice”

Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower “Rice”
A healthy alternative to the starchy side. Perfect for those who cook low-carb, paleo, whole 30 and/or just want to get more veggies into their diet!
Check out this recipe

Ranchero Beans

Slow COoker Ranchero Beans
My recipe for Slow Cooker Ranchero Beans taste just like Chuy’s Tex-Mex ranchero beans! They’ll be your go-to side dish for every Mexican fiesta!
Check out this recipe

Black Bean Corn Tomato Salad

Black Bean Corn Tomato Salad is full of fresh ingredients like cilantro, roasted bell peppers, and lime juice. This healthy Mexican side dish comes together in minutes, and is perfect to serve with tacos or eat on it's own.
Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
This Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice is an incredibly tasty rice side dish that is suitable for so many meals!
Check out this recipe

Mango Quinoa Salad

Southwestern Quinoa Salad with Mango
Spice up your picnic or pot luck with a fresh and healthy Mango Quinoa Salad, made in just 15 minutes with fresh mangoes, corn, black beans and spices. This gluten free and dairy free salad is perfect to enjoy as is or as a side for dinner.
Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Black Beans

Top view of black bean sgarnished with cilantro on a white plate.
Make a big batch of fresh black bean in an hours time with my easy recipe for Instant Pot Black Beans. Freeze the leftovers for easy future meals.
Check out this recipe

Bacon Refried Beans

Top view of skilled filled with refried beans, green onions, bacon bits, and shredded cheese.
Bacon refried beans topped with cheese is a delicious and hearty Mexican side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The smoky and salty flavor of bacon combined with creamy refried beans and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Check out this recipe

Black Bean Mango Salad

Glass bowl with black beans, mango and green onion with cilantro.
Make a delicious summer side dish of Black Bean Mango Salad that uses fresh seasonal ingredients with a can of drained black beans. All ingredients mixed together and refrigerated until ready to serve. This salad is both gluten free and dairy free and perfect for entertaining.
Check out this recipe

Mexican Vegetable Side Dish

If you’re looking for a Mexican vegetable side dish to pair with tacos, consider options such as Mexican street corn and avocado fries. Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and onions also make great accompaniments to any taco dish.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

White square bowl filled with corn, cheese, and herbs.
Mexican Street Corn Salad also known as Esquites (in Mexico) is a creamy warm corn salad filled with fresh herbs, spices, and cotija cheese. This corn salad makes for a perfect side dish to compliment any Mexican dinner.
Check out this recipe

Crispy Baked Avocado Fries & Chipotle Dipping Sauce

Crispy Baked Avocado Fries & Chipotle Dipping Sauce
Fresh sliced avocado, coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked to perfection. These avocado fries are incredibly tasty and easy to make and are sure to impress the pickiest eaters. There’s one thing I never get
Check out this recipe

Pickled Red Onion

Pickled Red Onion
Sweet and tangy pickled red onion and jalapeño with underlying notes of citrus. It’s easy to make and delicious on tacos, other Mexican food or even burgers!
Check out this recipe

Grilled Mexican Street Corn

side view Grilled Mexican Street Corn resting on wooden board on picnic tablecloth.
Grilled corn on the cob slathered with crema, cojita cheese, fresh cilantro, and cayenne pepper makes up this recipe for Grilled Mexican Street Corn.
Check out this recipe

Mexican Roasted Zucchini

Mexican Roasted Zucchini
Mexican Roasted Zucchini- A low-carb side to any Mexican dish- a great alternative to rice and beans! Easy to make and and jam-packed with flavor similar to Mexican street corn.
Check out this recipe

Tomato Avocado Salad

Tomato Avocado Salad
Fresh plum tomatoes, haas avocados, lime juice, and cilantro all mixed together for a creamy fresh tomato salad. If you love avocado’s and tomatoes then you’ll love this salad. The Tomato Avocado Salad pairs well with just about all Mexican dishes.
Check out this recipe

Mexican Roasted Cauliflower

Mexican Roasted Cauliflower
Mexican inspired roasted cauliflower is so flavorful and easy it might just become your new favorite veggie side dish! Cauliflower florets are tossed with flavorful spices and roasted until crispy and caramelized.
Check out this recipe

Mexican Sweet Corn Cakes

Mexican Sweet Corn Cakes are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, made with cornmeal, canned creamed corn, and a blend of pantry staples. These corn cakes are made in the slow cooker and are typically served as a side dish.
Check out this recipe

I grew up eating at ChiChi’s Mexican Restaurant. My favorite part of eating there was the corn cakes. Years later I created a recipe that rivals the childhood classic Mexican chain restaurant.

Roasted Mexican Sweet Potatoes

Roasted Mexican Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Mexican Sweet Potatoes are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Sure to be everyone’s favorite side dish for dinner or holidays!
Check out this recipe

These roasted Mexican sweet potatoes would pair perfectly with grilled skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.

Taco Recipes

  • Beef and Red Bean Tacos
    Beef and Red Bean Tacos
  • White square bowl filled with corn, cheese, and herbs.
    Mexican Street Corn Salad
  • White round plate with three soft fish tacos with avocado and cabbage on them.
    Mahi Mahi Tacos
  • How To Make Crunchy Hard Taco Shells
    How To Make Crunchy Hard Taco Shells

Choosing the perfect sides to accompany your tacos is a matter of personal preference and creativity. While traditional options like rice and beans or chips and salsa are always a crowd-pleaser, there are endless possibilities when it comes to crafting the ultimate taco spread. From homemade guacamole to zesty cilantro lime yogurt dip, adding unique and flavorful sides is a great way to elevate your taco game and impress your guests. So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your taco creations!

If you loved this recipe round-up and looking for more… here are a few more of my favorite recipe round-ups and comprehensive recipe guides.

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About Katie

Katie is a busy mom of 2 children who loves to feed her family delicious meals that don't take hours to cook! She started her blog 15 years ago as a way to help others get cooking in the kitchen.

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Comments

  1. Letty / Letty's Kitchen

    May 04, 2021 at 2:22 pm

    What a great assemblage of taco recipes! Thank you for including my tofu hamburger taco rec!

    Reply
    • Katie

      May 05, 2021 at 10:04 pm

      Thank you!

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I'm Katie Jasiewicz: home cook, food blogger, and recipe developer. A busy mom of two children who loves to feed her family delicious meals that don’t take hours to cook! My mission is to create easy-to-make modern comfort food for the busy family. (more)

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