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28 Sides For Taco – Easy Ideas For Taco Bar & Taco Night

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Spice up your next taco night with this list of 28 delicious taco side dishes. From traditional Mexican classics like Pico de Gallo and Refried Beans to unique and flavor-packed dishes like Chili Lime Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Spicy Mexican Pickled Carrots, there’s a perfect pairing for every taco variety. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect sides to enhance your taco experience.

28 sides for taco easy healthy taco night 1

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad

An Invigorating Side Dish

This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful twist on the classic elote. With grilled corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a flavor-packed accompaniment to your favorite tacos. It provides the right balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.

Great for Sharing

This salad is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. The vibrant colors and irresistible flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs exceptionally well with any type of taco.

Personalize Your Salad

Feel free to make this dish your own by adjusting the spice level or adding other ingredients like chopped tomatoes or cilantro. It’s versatile and can cater to your taste buds.

Check this recipe

2. Black Bean and Corn Salsa

A Burst of Flavors

This Black Bean and Corn Salsa is a refreshing, vibrant side that pairs perfectly with your tacos. It combines the earthiness of black beans, the sweetness of corn, and the freshness of tomatoes and cilantro in a beautiful symphony of flavors.

A Healthy Choice

This salsa is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a source of fiber and protein, making it a healthful addition to your taco night.

Make it Your Own

Customize this salsa by adding avocado, adjusting the spice levels, or incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.

Check this recipe

3. Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw

A Tangy, Refreshing Side

This Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw offers a fresh, tangy contrast to your savory tacos. With crunchy cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing, this slaw will make your taco experience even better.

A Quick and Easy Preparation

This slaw is a great option when you’re short on time. It’s simple to prepare, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Adaptable to Your Tastes

You can modify this recipe according to your liking. Try adding some jalapeño for heat or mixing in other vegetables for extra color and texture.

Check this recipe

4. Refried Beans

A Traditional Favorite

Refried Beans are a classic Mexican side dish, offering a creamy, comforting complement to your favorite tacos. The hearty beans, seasoned to perfection, add a delicious depth of flavor to your meal.

Nutritious and Satisfying

Not only are refried beans tasty, but they’re also a good source of protein and fiber, keeping you satisfied while you enjoy your tacos.

Personalize Your Beans

Add your own twist to refried beans by adding some cheese, spicy salsa, or chopped cilantro to customize the flavor to your liking.

Check this recipe

5. Jicama and Mango Salad

A Sweet and Crunchy Side

This Jicama and Mango Salad provides a refreshing, sweet, and crunchy counterpoint to your tacos. The crisp jicama and juicy mango are a delightful combination that enhances any taco meal.

A Vibrant Addition to Your Meal

This salad is not just delicious, but also visually appealing. The colors pop, adding a vibrant touch to your table setting.

Adjust to Your Liking

You can adjust this recipe to fit your taste preferences. Add some chili powder for a kick, or squeeze in some extra lime for a tangier flavor.

Check this recipe

6. Mexican Rice

A Classic Staple

Mexican Rice is a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine. It’s flavorful, comforting, and makes the perfect side dish for tacos. Its enticing aroma and vibrant color will elevate your taco meal.

Satisfying and Nutritious

This rice dish not only fills you up but also provides essential nutrients from the vegetables and spices used.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to experiment with different spices, vegetables, or even switch out the white rice for a healthier brown or wild rice alternative.

Check this recipe

7. Chipotle Honey Roasted Carrots

honey roast carrot

A Flavorful Twist

These Chipotle Honey Roasted Carrots offer a unique and flavorful twist as a side dish. The sweetness of the honey perfectly balances the heat from the chipotle, complementing your taco meal.

Read also: 21 Leftover Taco Meat Recipes

Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a short roasting time, making it a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight taco dinner.

Customizable

Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking, or add some lime zest for a citrusy touch.

Check this recipe

8. Avocado and Black Bean Salad

Refreshing and Healthy

This Avocado and Black Bean Salad is a refreshing, healthy side dish for tacos. It’s a delightful mix of creamy avocado, hearty black beans, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime.

Perfect for Summertime

This salad is especially great for warm summer days. Its fresh flavors and chilled serving temperature make it a wonderful addition to your taco meal.

Versatile and Adaptable

Customize this salad by adding corn, cilantro, or a spicy jalapeno. You can also change the dressing to suit your taste.

Check this recipe

9. Pico de Gallo

A Classic Salsa

Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a classic Mexican salsa that pairs wonderfully with tacos. Its bright, fresh flavors from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a zesty touch to your meal.

Healthy and Delicious

This salsa is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a guilt-free side dish.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to adjust the ratios of the ingredients or add some jalapeno or serrano peppers for an extra kick.

Check this recipe

10. Spicy Grilled Zucchini

A Veggie-Packed Side

This Spicy Grilled Zucchini is a simple and healthy side that goes great with tacos. It’s seasoned with spicy chili powder and fresh lime juice, providing a burst of flavor with each bite.

Perfect for Grilling Season

This side dish is perfect for the grilling season, adding a nice charred flavor to your zucchini.

Adaptable to Your Liking

Feel free to change up the seasonings or add some grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Check this recipe

11. Tomato Avocado Cucumber Salad

A Refreshing Salad

This Tomato Avocado Cucumber Salad is a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with tacos. It’s packed with fresh, vibrant flavors and provides a lighter contrast to your meal.

Perfect for Summer

This salad is especially suited for warm weather, with its chilled serving temperature and crisp, fresh ingredients.

Personalize Your Salad

Feel free to mix in other ingredients like black beans, corn, or feta cheese to add an extra dimension of flavor.

Check this recipe

12. Mexican Grilled Corn

A Savory Treat

Mexican Grilled Corn, also known as Elote, is a savory and delicious side dish. It’s smoky, creamy, and tangy, perfectly complementing the flavors of your favorite tacos.

A Must-Have for Barbecues

This dish is a great option for outdoor barbecues and get-togethers. Your guests will love the unique flavors.

Customizable Toppings

Feel free to change up the cheese or add additional spices to make this dish your own.

Check this recipe

13. Shrimp Stuffed Avocado 

A Deliciously Rich Side

Shrimp Stuffed Avocado is a rich, tasty side dish that pairs well with tacos. It features creamy avocado stuffed with juicy, seasoned shrimp and fresh salsa.

A Healthy Indulgence

Despite its decadent taste, this dish is packed with healthy fats and lean protein, making it a nutritious choice.

Adjust to Your Taste

Feel free to adjust the spices used on the shrimp, or use a different protein like chicken or beans, depending on your preference.

Check this recipe

14. Mexican Chorizo and Garlic Shrimp Burger

A Flavorful Feast

This Mexican Chorizo and Garlic Shrimp Burger is an unusual but delicious side dish for tacos. It’s packed with flavors from the spicy chorizo and the garlic shrimp, adding a delightful twist to your meal.

Perfect for a Hearty Meal

This dish is perfect for when you want a hearty, satisfying meal. The burger is filling, and the flavors go well with any type of taco.

Customizable

Feel free to switch out the shrimp for other proteins or add extra toppings to the burger, such as cheese or avocado.

Check this recipe

15. Grilled Pineapple with Lime Mint Sauce

A Sweet and Tangy Side

This Grilled Pineapple with Lime Mint Sauce is a sweet and tangy side dish that perfectly complements the savory flavors of tacos. The caramelized pineapple and the zesty lime mint sauce create a delicious balance.

Great for Summer

This side dish is particularly wonderful in the summer months when pineapples are at their sweetest and grilling is in full swing.

Versatile and Easy

Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste, and enjoy how easy this recipe is to whip up.

Check this recipe

16. Green Chile Cornbread

A Spicy Take on a Classic

This Green Chile Cornbread adds a spicy twist to a classic side dish. The sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the heat of the green chiles, creating a flavorful side that complements tacos well.

Read also: 20 Frozen Shrimp Recipes

Comfort Food at Its Best

This cornbread is ideal when you want a comforting, home-cooked side dish. It’s hearty, warming, and delicious.

Add Your Personal Touch

Feel free to add more chiles if you like extra heat, or sprinkle in some shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.

Check this recipe

17. Mexican Quinoa Salad

A Nutrient-Packed Side

This Mexican Quinoa Salad is a nutrient-packed side dish that goes great with tacos. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, black beans, corn, and avocado, making it a healthy and delicious choice.

Ideal for Meal Prep

This salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for meal prepping. It tastes great cold or at room temperature.

Easily Adaptable

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Try adding some grilled chicken or swapping the black beans for chickpeas.

Check this recipe

18. Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans

A Hearty and Filling Side

These Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans make a hearty, filling side dish. The sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes and the earthy black beans complement each other perfectly and go well with tacos.

Rich in Nutrients

This side dish is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamin A, while black beans are an excellent source of protein.

Versatile and Adaptable

Feel free to add some spices to the sweet potatoes before roasting or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Check this recipe

19. Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole

A Comforting Dish

This Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty side dish that pairs well with tacos. The creamy cheese and flavorful rice create a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.

Great for Family Dinners

This casserole is a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to make in large quantities and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Customizable to Your Liking

Feel free to add some vegetables or proteins to the casserole, or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Check this recipe

20. Mexican Coleslaw

A Crunchy, Fresh Side

This Mexican Coleslaw is a crunchy, fresh side dish that’s perfect for tacos. It’s filled with colorful vegetables and a tangy, spicy dressing that will add a nice contrast to your meal.

Perfect for Picnics and Barbecues

This coleslaw is great for outdoor events like picnics and barbecues, as it’s refreshing and easy to transport.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to adjust the dressing to your liking or add in some additional ingredients like jalapeno or cilantro.

Check this recipe

21. Mexican Grilled Vegetable Stack

A Veggie Delight

This Mexican Grilled Vegetable Stack is a delightful side dish that offers a vibrant, fresh addition to your tacos. The combination of grilled vegetables and Mexican seasoning makes for a delicious flavor.

Ideal for Grilling Season

This dish is perfect for the grilling season, offering a healthy and delicious option that’s sure to impress your guests.

Customizable

Feel free to switch out or add any vegetables you prefer, and adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Check this recipe

22. Pineapple Mango Salsa

A Sweet and Spicy Kick

This Pineapple Mango Salsa provides a sweet and spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with tacos. The juicy pineapple and mango create a perfect balance with the spicy jalapeno and tangy lime juice.

Perfect for Summer

This salsa is especially great for warm summer days. Its fresh, tropical flavors and chilled serving temperature make it a wonderful addition to your taco meal.

Adaptable to Your Taste

Adjust the ingredients based on your preference. You could add some bell peppers for extra crunch, or use more or less jalapeno depending on your desired heat level.

Check this recipe

23. Black Bean and Corn Guacamole

A Hearty and Flavorful Dip

This Black Bean and Corn Guacamole is a hearty and flavorful dip that makes a wonderful side for tacos. The creaminess of the avocado, the sweetness of the corn, and the earthiness of the black beans make a delicious combination.

Healthy and Nutritious

This guacamole is packed with healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the black beans, making it a nutritious choice.

Versatile and Customizable

You can adjust the recipe based on your preferences. Add some jalapeno for a spicy kick, or sprinkle in some feta cheese for a tangy twist.

Check this recipe

24. Cheesy Mexican Stuffed Peppers

A Colorful and Savory Side

These Cheesy Mexican Stuffed Peppers make a colorful and savory side dish. They’re stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, and a variety of spices, providing a delightful burst of Mexican flavors.

Great for Dinner Parties

These stuffed peppers are not only delicious, they also make a beautiful presentation on your dinner table, making them perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Customizable

You can add other ingredients like ground beef or chicken, or swap the rice for quinoa for a healthier twist.

Check this recipe

25. Zesty Mexican Pasta Salad

A Creamy, Tangy Side

This Zesty Mexican Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish that pairs well with tacos. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a unique dish that’s sure to please.

Ideal for Potlucks

This pasta salad is perfect for potlucks or large gatherings, as it can be made in advance and served cold.

Versatile and Adaptable

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like olives, corn, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein.

Check this recipe

26. Chili Lime Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A Unique Side Dish

These Chili Lime Roasted Brussels Sprouts offer a unique side dish for your taco night. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and tossed with a chili lime dressing, providing a flavorful and healthy side.

Perfect for Health Conscious

Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients and this recipe is a great way to include them in your diet. Plus, the chili and lime add a nice zing to this dish.

Easily Adjustable

Adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili, or add other spices to suit your taste.

Check this recipe

27. Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo)

A Classic Mexican Side

Mexican Red Rice, or Arroz Rojo, is a classic Mexican side dish. It’s a flavorful combination of rice, tomatoes, and spices, and pairs excellently with tacos.

Great for Family Meals

This dish is a fantastic choice for family meals, as it’s easy to make in large quantities and is loved by both adults and kids.

Versatile

You can add vegetables or even proteins to this dish, or adjust the spices according to your preference.

Check this recipe.

28. Spicy Mexican Pickled Carrots

A Tangy, Spicy Treat

These Spicy Mexican Pickled Carrots offer a tangy, spicy addition to your taco meal. They’re pickled with vinegar, spices, and jalapenos, providing a burst of flavor that contrasts well with other dishes.

Ideal for Make-Ahead

This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe, as the flavors deepen over time. You can prepare these pickled carrots a few days in advance for best results.

Adjustable Heat Level

You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeno, depending on your spice preference. Similarly, you can experiment with other spices or herbs to add different flavors.

Check this recipe

Conclusion

Exploring this list of 30 delectable taco side dishes, it’s clear that tacos are more than just a main dish – they’re part of an entire culinary experience. Each side dish brings its own unique flavor, complementing and enhancing the taste of your favorite tacos.

So next time you whip up some tacos, don’t forget to pair them with these delightful sides to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal !


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