Tacos are a beloved dish enjoyed around the world, thanks to their versatility, bold flavors, and endless customization options. But if you’ve ever wondered what to eat with tacos to elevate your meal, you’re not alone. Pairing tacos with the right sides, drinks, and even desserts can transform a simple dinner into a culinary experience.
The right accompaniments not only enhance the flavor of tacos but also provide balance. Whether you’re hosting a taco night, preparing a family dinner, or simply satisfying your cravings, understanding what to pair with tacos ensures a complete and satisfying meal. In this guide, we’ll explore classic Mexican sides, creative pairings, and even tips to create the perfect taco night.
Let’s dive into a world of delicious combinations that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Table of Contents
Classic Mexican Side Dishes
When it comes to pairing food with tacos, starting with traditional Mexican side dishes is a no-brainer. These dishes not only complement tacos but also bring authentic flavors to the table. Let’s explore some classics:
Rice Variations
Mexican Rice
Mexican rice, also known as arroz rojo, is a staple that pairs beautifully with tacos. This dish is made with long-grain rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. Its slightly tangy flavor and vibrant red color make it a favorite accompaniment to tacos.
Cilantro Lime Rice
For a fresh twist, cilantro lime rice is a popular choice. This side dish is lighter than traditional Mexican rice and features the zesty combination of lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro. It’s an excellent pairing, especially with fish or shrimp tacos.
Beans
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a hearty and comforting side. Made from pinto or black beans, these creamy beans are cooked with spices and often blended with a touch of lard or oil. They’re great for dipping or spreading alongside tacos.
Black Beans
If you prefer something lighter, a bowl of seasoned black beans is the way to go. Simmered with garlic, onions, and cumin, black beans add a touch of earthiness to the meal and are perfect for vegetarian taco spreads.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote is a street food favorite that doubles as an excellent taco side dish. Corn on the cob is grilled to perfection and then slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. The smoky and tangy flavors of elote make it an irresistible addition to taco night.
Fresh and Healthy Options

Tacos are often rich and flavorful, so balancing them with fresh and healthy sides can create a more well-rounded meal. These light options add vibrant colors and refreshing flavors to your plate.
Guacamole and Avocado Salad
Guacamole
Guacamole is a must-have for any taco meal. Made with ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of salt, this creamy side is the perfect dip or topping. You can customize it with diced tomatoes, onions, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
Avocado Salad
If you’re looking for something slightly different, try an avocado salad. Combine sliced avocados with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of olive oil and lime juice. This salad adds a refreshing, tangy element to your taco spread.
Fresh Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo, or salsa fresca, is a fresh tomato salsa that’s both simple and delicious. It’s made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. This chunky salsa pairs beautifully with tacos, offering a burst of freshness with every bite.
Mixed Green Salad with Lime Dressing
A crisp green salad is always a welcome addition to a taco meal. Combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, and shredded carrots, then toss with a zesty lime vinaigrette. Add a sprinkle of cotija cheese or sliced radishes for extra flavor and crunch.
Comfort Food Pairings

Sometimes, tacos call for indulgent and satisfying sides. These comfort food options add a hearty touch to your meal, making taco night even more enjoyable.
Cheesy Nachos
Nachos are the ultimate comfort food to pair with tacos. Layer tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, black beans, and a dollop of sour cream for a side dish that’s as satisfying as the main course. You can customize your nachos with additional toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded chicken.
Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a simple yet delicious side for tacos. Fill flour tortillas with a blend of cheeses, fold them in half, and cook until golden and crispy. You can also add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or shredded meat to elevate their flavor. Slice them into wedges for easy sharing.
Loaded Fries with Taco Toppings
For a modern twist, serve loaded fries alongside tacos. Top a plate of crispy fries with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions. This indulgent side dish is perfect for gatherings or game nights.
Salsas and Dips
Salsas and dips are essential companions for tacos, adding layers of flavor and spice to the meal. From mild and tangy to fiery and bold, there’s a salsa or dip for every taste preference.
Traditional Red Salsa
A classic red salsa is a taco night staple. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapeños, and cilantro, this smooth and tangy salsa complements all types of tacos. It’s easy to prepare and can be adjusted to suit your desired spice level.
Green Salsa (Salsa Verde)
Salsa verde is a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and green chilies. Its zesty, slightly tart flavor makes it a perfect pairing for pork or chicken tacos. For added texture, try a chunkier version with diced tomatillos and onions.
Spicy Habanero Dip
For those who love heat, a habanero dip is the ultimate choice. This fiery salsa combines habanero peppers, mango, and lime juice for a bold, sweet, and spicy flavor. Use it sparingly as a dip or drizzle it over your tacos for an extra kick.
Creamy Chipotle Dip
This smoky and creamy dip is a versatile side that works well with tacos. Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with mayonnaise or sour cream for a rich and smoky flavor. It’s ideal for dipping chips or adding a touch of indulgence to tacos.
Drinks to Complement Tacos
A well-chosen drink can elevate your taco meal, balancing flavors and refreshing your palate between bites. Here are some popular drink options to serve with tacos:
Classic Margaritas
Margaritas are the quintessential beverage for taco night. This cocktail combines tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served over ice or blended into a frozen treat. For a twist, try flavors like strawberry, mango, or spicy jalapeño margaritas. The tartness of the lime complements the bold spices in tacos perfectly.
Fresh Agua Frescas
Agua frescas are light, fruity beverages made by blending fresh fruit with water, lime juice, and a touch of sweetener. Popular varieties include watermelon, hibiscus (jamaica), and cucumber. These refreshing drinks are non-alcoholic, making them a great choice for all ages.
Mexican Sodas
Mexican sodas like Jarritos and Mexican Coca-Cola are beloved for their vibrant flavors and use of cane sugar. Flavors such as tamarind, guava, and grapefruit provide a sweet and fizzy contrast to the savory elements of tacos.
Unique and Creative Pairings
For those looking to step outside traditional taco accompaniments, these creative pairings bring a fresh and exciting twist to the table.
Tropical Fruit Salad
A tropical fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory spices in tacos. Combine chunks of pineapple, mango, papaya, and watermelon, then drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with a pinch of chili powder. This vibrant side dish enhances the flavors of grilled or fish tacos.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers
Grilled pineapple skewers are a simple yet impressive side. The caramelized sugars in the pineapple add a smoky-sweet element that pairs beautifully with pork or chicken tacos. For extra flavor, sprinkle the pineapple with cinnamon or a hint of cayenne before grilling.
Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Dip
Sweet potato fries are a trendy and delicious side for tacos. The natural sweetness of the fries contrasts beautifully with spicy or smoky taco fillings. Serve them with a chipotle dip made by mixing chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with sour cream or yogurt.
Roasted Corn Salad
This salad is a deconstructed twist on elote. Combine roasted corn kernels with diced red bell peppers, red onions, cilantro, lime juice, and cotija cheese. It’s a fresh, tangy side that adds crunch and zest to your taco meal.
Desserts to End the Meal
No taco night is complete without a sweet finale. Mexican-inspired desserts provide the perfect ending, with their rich, comforting flavors and delightful textures.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce
Churros are a classic Mexican dessert that pairs wonderfully with tacos. These fried dough sticks are coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a side of warm, velvety chocolate sauce for dipping. The combination of crunchy exterior and soft interior makes churros irresistible.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake, or “three milks” cake, is a light sponge cake soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, this moist dessert offers a creamy, indulgent ending to a flavorful meal.
Flan
Flan is a creamy caramel custard that’s both simple and elegant. This rich dessert has a silky texture and a delicate sweetness, making it a favorite complement to spicy or savory tacos. Serve it chilled for the best contrast to your warm, savory dishes.
Mexican Buñuelos
Buñuelos are crispy, fried dough treats dusted with cinnamon sugar. Often served during festive occasions, these light and crunchy desserts are perfect for nibbling on after a taco feast.
Fruit Paletas
For a refreshing and lighter option, fruit paletas (Mexican popsicles) are an excellent choice. Made with real fruit puree, flavors like mango, lime, and tamarind cleanse the palate and provide a cooling finish to the meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings
Tacos are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with vegetarian and vegan sides. Whether you’re hosting plant-based guests or simply looking for lighter options, these pairings deliver big on flavor.
Vegan Cheese Nachos
Create a vegan version of cheesy nachos by using plant-based cheese alternatives. Top tortilla chips with melted vegan cheese, black beans, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and a dollop of vegan sour cream. This hearty side is just as indulgent as its dairy-based counterpart.
Grilled Vegetables with Mexican Spices
Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and lime juice, make a vibrant and healthy side. The smoky char from the grill complements the flavors of vegan tacos beautifully.
Vegan Black Bean Salad
This protein-packed salad combines black beans, corn, red onions, tomatoes, and cilantro with a tangy lime and olive oil dressing. It’s a refreshing and nutrient-rich side that pairs wonderfully with any taco variety.
Quinoa and Avocado Bowl
A quinoa and avocado bowl is a wholesome side that’s both filling and flavorful. Toss cooked quinoa with diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lime. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Plantain Chips with Guacamole
For a crispy and unique vegan pairing, serve plantain chips alongside guacamole. The natural sweetness of the plantains pairs well with the creamy, tangy dip, making it a satisfying side dish or snack.
Tips for Perfect Pairings
Creating a balanced taco meal isn’t just about choosing random sides—it’s about harmony. Follow these tips to craft the perfect pairings that elevate your taco experience.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
A well-rounded taco meal incorporates a mix of flavors and textures. Pair spicy tacos with cooling sides like guacamole or lime-dressed salads. For soft tacos, include crispy sides like nachos or plantain chips to add crunch.
Considering Taco Fillings for Pairing Choices
The type of taco filling should influence your side dish choices:
- Beef or Pork Tacos: Rich fillings pair well with fresh sides like pico de gallo or avocado salad.
- Fish or Shrimp Tacos: Complement these with zesty sides like cilantro lime rice or grilled pineapple skewers.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Boost their nutritional value with protein-packed sides like black bean salad or quinoa bowls.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Freshness is key to enhancing taco flavors. Use ripe avocados, freshly squeezed lime juice, and crisp vegetables to ensure that your sides and toppings are as delicious as the tacos themselves.
Offering Variety
Taco night is best enjoyed with a variety of sides. Include options like salsas, dips, salads, and a starchy dish to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Incorporating Drinks and Desserts
Don’t forget to round out your meal with complementary beverages like margaritas or agua frescas and a sweet treat like churros or tres leches cake. The entire experience feels more complete with thoughtful additions.
Common Pairing Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most delicious tacos can lose their charm if paired with the wrong sides. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your taco meal is a hit.
Overpowering the Tacos’ Flavors
Tacos are the star of the meal, so don’t let the side dishes steal the show. Avoid overly spicy or heavily seasoned sides that compete with the flavors of the tacos. For example, a bold habanero dip might overwhelm mild fish tacos. Instead, opt for complementary flavors.
Forgetting the Beverage Pairing
A great drink can enhance the meal, while the wrong choice can feel mismatched. Pair tacos with refreshing options like agua frescas, margaritas, or light beers. Avoid overly sweet or heavy beverages that may clash with the savory elements of the meal.
Serving One-Dimensional Sides
A meal with tacos should feature variety, not repetition. Serving multiple creamy or fried sides, for example, can make the meal feel heavy. Instead, balance creamy dips with fresh salads or crunchy chips.
Ignoring Dietary Preferences
When hosting, consider the dietary needs of your guests. Provide vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options to ensure everyone can enjoy the meal. Skipping this step can leave some guests feeling excluded.
Neglecting Presentation
A well-presented taco spread is more appetizing and enjoyable. Arrange sides and toppings in an organized, visually appealing manner. Use colorful ingredients like tomatoes, cilantro, and limes to create a vibrant, inviting table.
FAQs
What’s the best vegetarian side dish with tacos?
The best vegetarian side dish depends on your preferences. Popular choices include guacamole, black bean salad, or grilled vegetables seasoned with Mexican spices. For inspiration on enhancing your taco experience, explore our guide on creative taco bowls.
Can I pair tacos with non-Mexican dishes?
Yes, you can get creative and pair tacos with non-Mexican dishes. For example, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, and roasted sweet potatoes provide a hearty, slightly sweet side. To incorporate versatile vegetable options, check out what vegetables are good in bone broth.
What drinks go well with tacos?
Classic drinks like margaritas, Mexican sodas, and agua frescas pair wonderfully with tacos. For beer lovers, light Mexican lagers like Corona or Modelo are excellent choices. For a non-alcoholic option, limeade or hibiscus tea complements the bold taco flavors.
What are good desserts to serve with tacos?
Churros with chocolate sauce, tres leches cake, and flan are all excellent dessert options to serve with tacos. These sweet treats provide a delightful contrast to the savory tacos, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Are there gluten-free options for taco pairings?
Yes, many taco sides are naturally gluten-free. For example, corn-based dishes like elote, black bean salad, or guacamole are excellent choices. Pair them with tacos made using corn tortillas for a completely gluten-free meal.
How can I make taco night more festive?
To make taco night more festive, set up a taco bar with a variety of fillings, toppings, and sides. Decorate the table with vibrant colors, add some Mexican music, and serve signature drinks like margaritas or agua frescas to set the mood.
Conclusion
Tacos are a universally loved dish, but what truly elevates them is the thought and creativity put into their accompaniments. From classic Mexican sides like elote and refried beans to fresh options like guacamole and pico de gallo, there’s no shortage of delicious pairings to complement your tacos.
For a more indulgent meal, comfort food sides like cheesy nachos or loaded fries can make taco night feel special. Drinks like margaritas and agua frescas refresh your palate, while desserts such as churros and banana pudding provide a satisfying sweet finish.
Whether you’re hosting a festive taco party or enjoying a casual meal at home, the key to success is balance, variety, and thoughtful presentation. By choosing sides that enhance the flavors of your tacos, you create a meal that’s not just filling but also memorable.
With this guide, you’re now ready to build a taco feast that will leave everyone at the table raving. Let the fiesta begin!