Taco Tuesday has become a beloved tradition in many households. It’s a fun way to break up the week, and it’s an excuse to gather with family or friends over some seriously tasty food. Tacos are versatile, and you can fill them with just about anything, from grilled chicken to sautéed veggies to spicy beef. But as great as tacos are, the sides are what can truly elevate your Taco Tuesday experience.
Let’s look at some of the best sides that will complement your tacos and make the meal unforgettable.
1. Fresh Pico de Gallo
A taco spread isn’t complete without something fresh to balance out the rich flavors of the fillings. Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a light and zesty tomato-based salsa that brings brightness and a pop of color to the table. Made with simple ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of salt, Pico de Gallo offers a fresh, slightly tangy contrast to heavier taco fillings like beef or pork.
The beauty of Pico de Gallo is its simplicity. It only takes a few minutes to make, and it can be served in various ways. You can scoop it onto your tacos, serve it as a side with chips, or even mix it into rice for added flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable—if you like a little heat, just add some chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers.
2. Mexican Black Beans
Beans are a staple side dish when it comes to Taco Tuesday. They add heartiness and depth to the meal, making them a satisfying complement to both meat and vegetable tacos. If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful way to prepare them, this instant pot Mexican black beans recipe is a great option. This method is super convenient because it skips the soaking step while still delivering tender, flavorful beans in about 35 minutes. These beans, seasoned with onions, bay leaves, and fennel, can be served as a simple side or added right into your tacos. The Instant Pot makes the process hassle-free, and the beans freeze well for future use, making them an ideal make-ahead option for multiple taco nights.
3. Creamy and Cool Guacamole
When it comes to taco sides, guacamole is a fan favorite. There’s something about the creamy texture and fresh taste of mashed avocados that pairs so perfectly with tacos. Guacamole is incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients: ripe avocados, lime juice, salt, and a bit of garlic. For added texture and flavor, you can mix in diced tomatoes and onions.
Guacamole isn’t just a dip—it can also be used as a topping for your tacos. It adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm taco fillings, and the citrusy lime juice brightens up every bite. For those looking to add a bit of flair to their Taco Tuesday, you can experiment with adding pomegranate seeds, diced mango, or even roasted corn to your guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Mexican Rice for Added Flavor
Mexican rice, or “arroz rojo,” is another classic side dish that pairs beautifully with tacos. Lightly flavored with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a touch of cumin, this fluffy rice is a perfect complement to the bold flavors of taco fillings. It’s also a great way to add some substance to the meal without overpowering the main dish.
The best part about Mexican rice is that it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. You can cook it on the stovetop or use a rice cooker for convenience. Once ready, Mexican rice is light, flavorful, and adds a lovely texture to the meal. It also serves as a good base if you want to add other ingredients like peas, carrots, or even some cooked beans. Serve it alongside your tacos, and your Taco Tuesday just got a lot more festive.
5. Grilled Street Corn (Elote)
Grilled street corn, or “elote,” is a Mexican street food favorite that has made its way into homes and restaurants around the world. This fun and flavorful side dish is perfect for Taco Tuesday, especially during the warmer months when you can easily fire up the grill. Elote is made by grilling whole ears of corn until they’re slightly charred, then coating them with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese.
The result is a tangy, spicy, and creamy side dish that contrasts beautifully with the textures and flavors of tacos. The smokiness from the grilled corn pairs particularly well with beef or chicken tacos, and the creamy toppings add an extra layer of indulgence. For an added twist, you can sprinkle some fresh cilantro or even drizzle some hot sauce over the corn.
6. Cilantro Lime Slaw for a Crunchy Twist
If you’re looking for something light, crunchy, and refreshing to serve with your tacos, cilantro lime slaw is the way to go. This slaw is made with shredded cabbage, freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of salt. It’s simple to make but adds a much-needed crunch and brightness to the meal.
Cilantro lime slaw can be served on the side or as a topping for your tacos. The crisp texture of the cabbage provides a lovely contrast to the soft taco shells and the tender fillings. Plus, the citrusy lime and fresh cilantro give the slaw a vibrant flavor that balances out richer dishes like pulled pork or grilled fish tacos.
7. Chips and Salsa for the Win
Last but not least, you can never go wrong with the classic chips and salsa combination. It’s an easy side dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Whether you go for a traditional tomato-based salsa, a spicy salsa verde, or something a little different, like mango salsa, the combination of crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsa is a perfect accompaniment to tacos.
Chips and salsa are great as an appetizer while you’re preparing the main meal, or they can be served on the side for people to munch on throughout dinner. For a little extra indulgence, you can also serve the chips with guacamole or queso dip.
Taco Tuesday is all about enjoying good food with great company, and the right side dishes can really elevate the meal. Whether you opt for classic beans and rice or go for something a little different, like street corn or crunchy slaw, these sides will perfectly complement your tacos and make your Taco Tuesday spread a memorable one!
