Finding the right side dishes for walking tacos can be tricky. While the handheld taco-in-a-bag is perfect for parties and gatherings, many hosts struggle to choose sides that complement this fun main dish without overshadowing it.
Stop worrying about what to serve alongside your walking tacos.
We’ve put together a complete list of side dishes that pair perfectly with this crowd-pleasing meal. From fresh salads to warm dips, these options will round out your menu beautifully.
In this article, you’ll find 25 tested side dish recipes that work well with walking tacos.
We’ve included quick options you can make in minutes, make-ahead dishes for busy hosts, and choices for different dietary needs.
Tasty Sides to Complement Your Walking Tacos
1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, features grilled corn on the cob smothered in a rich, creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese.
- Why it Works: The smoky, creamy, and spicy elements enhance the tacos, offering a bold flavor contrast.
- How to Serve: Serve in cups or on the cob, garnished with extra chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime wedges.
2. Guacamole and Chips
Guacamole combines ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, onions, and salt into a creamy dip that is rich and refreshing. The smooth texture pairs perfectly with the crispy tortilla chips.
- Why it Works: The richness of the guacamole contrasts with the crispy chips and adds a fresh, tangy element.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl for dipping or spread over tacos, with a sprinkle of paprika or extra lime juice.
3. Salsa and Chips
Salsa is a zesty, fresh blend of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and chili peppers, offering a tangy and slightly spicy kick. Its chunky texture and bright flavors create a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of other dishes.
- Why it Works: The acidity and freshness balance the rich taco flavors, while the chips provide a satisfying crunch.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl for dipping or spooned directly onto tacos. Offer different salsa varieties for added variety.
4. Mexican Rice
Mexican Rice is a flavorful side dish made from long-grain rice simmered in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin and chili powder. The result is fluffy, aromatic rice with subtle heat and rich, savory undertones.
- Why it Works: The savory, slightly sweet flavor of the rice complements the spiciness of the tacos and provides a hearty, satisfying side.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl alongside tacos or spooned into taco shells for a complete bite. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
5. Refried Beans
Refried Beans are made from pinto beans that are mashed and cooked with garlic, onions, and spices until creamy and smooth. This hearty, savory side adds depth and richness, balancing the crunch of the tacos.
- Why it Works: The rich, creamy texture of refried beans adds depth and balances the crispy taco shells and flavorful fillings.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl as a side dish or spread inside the taco shells for added creaminess. Top with cheese or a drizzle of sour cream for extra flavor.
6. Black Beans
Black Beans are a simple yet delicious side dish made by simmering black beans with garlic, onions, and a touch of cumin. Their tender texture and slightly sweet, earthy flavor add a nutritious component to the meal.
- Why it Works: The rich, earthy flavor of black beans complements the boldness of the tacos while adding a satisfying texture.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl or spooned into taco shells, and top with a sprinkle of cheese, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
7. Grilled Vegetables
A medley of bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and corn grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor and a tender-crisp texture. The vegetables are lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Why it Works: The smoky, slightly charred vegetables provide a fresh, light contrast to the heavier taco fillings, adding a healthy and flavorful component.
- How to Serve: Serve on the side or chopped and mixed into tacos for a burst of flavor and color.
8. Jalapeño Poppers
Jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture then breaded and fried or baked until golden and crispy. The peppers retain a spicy kick, which is mellowed by the creamy filling, making them an indulgent, zesty side.
- Why it Works: The spiciness of the jalapeños, paired with the creamy cheese filling, adds a bold and savory contrast to the tacos.
- How to Serve: Serve as finger food on the side, or cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing alongside tacos.
9. Cilantro Lime Rice
Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice, creating a light and refreshing side dish. The combination of bright citrus and fragrant herbs adds a zesty flavor that enhances any meal.
- Why it Works: The citrusy, herbaceous flavor of the rice complements the richness of the tacos while adding a refreshing contrast.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl alongside tacos or layer it inside the taco shells for added flavor and texture.
10. Avocado Slices
Avocado Slices are fresh, creamy slices of ripe avocado, seasoned with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the avocado create a cool and refreshing contrast to the tacos.
- Why it Works: The creamy texture and mild flavor of avocado balance the spice and crunch of the tacos, enhancing their richness.
- How to Serve: Serve as a side dish or layer on top of tacos for a creamy, fresh element.
11. Queso Fundido
Queso Fundido is a rich, melted cheese dip made with a blend of cheeses, often including Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheese, and sometimes mixed with chorizo or poblano peppers for extra flavor.
- Why it Works: The warm, melted cheese adds richness and a comforting, gooey element that complements the crunchy taco shells and flavorful fillings.
- How to Serve: Serve in a small bowl for dipping with tortilla chips or spoon over the tacos for an extra cheesy touch.
12. Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is a classic side made with long-grain rice cooked in a tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika. The rice is slightly savory with a hint of sweetness, offering a warm, comforting texture.
- Why it Works: The aromatic and slightly spiced flavor of Spanish rice complements the bold taco fillings while providing a hearty, satisfying side.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl on the side or layered in taco shells for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
13. Churros
Churros are fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar, offering a crispy exterior and soft, warm interior. The light and airy texture contrasts with the crunchy exterior, making them a perfect dessert side.
- Why it Works: The sweet, cinnamon-coated churros provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the tacos, offering a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
- How to Serve: Serve as a dessert on the side, or cut into smaller pieces for dipping into chocolate or caramel sauce.
14. Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a fresh, uncooked salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño for heat. This vibrant, chunky side is refreshing and adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Why it Works: The freshness and acidity of pico de gallo brighten up the richness of the tacos, adding a light and zesty element.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl as a refreshing side, or spoon directly onto tacos for added freshness and flavor.
15. Southwest Salad
Southwest Salad is a colorful mix of lettuce, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, all dressed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. The combination of creamy avocado, sweet corn, and crunchy greens creates a refreshing, light dish.
- Why it Works: The combination of crisp vegetables, beans, and a tangy dressing adds texture and freshness, balancing the heavier taco fillings.
- How to Serve: Serve in individual bowls or as a large platter for guests to help themselves, topping with cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.
16. Mexican Cornbread
Mexican Cornbread is a moist, slightly sweet cornbread made with cornmeal, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese. It has a slightly sweet flavor, tender crumb, and a golden, slightly crispy crust, adding a comforting texture to any meal.
- Why it Works: The slight sweetness and warmth of the cornbread complement the spiciness of the tacos, offering a satisfying, hearty side.
- How to Serve: Serve as squares or slices alongside tacos or crumbled over taco fillings for extra texture.
17. Fried Plantains
Fried Plantains are slices of ripe plantains that are fried until golden brown, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile. Their caramelized exterior and soft, sweet interior provide a delicious contrast to the savory and spicy taco fillings.
- Why it Works: The natural sweetness and crispy texture of fried plantains provide a pleasant contrast to the savory and spicy flavors of tacos.
- How to Serve: Serve as a side dish or snack, drizzled with lime juice or a sprinkle of chili powder for added flavor.
18. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes are seasoned with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cumin, and chili powder, then roasted until tender and caramelized. The sweet and slightly smoky flavor of the potatoes adds depth and balance to the meal.
- Why it Works: The natural sweetness and rich texture of roasted sweet potatoes balance the savory, spicy taco fillings, adding depth and warmth.
- How to Serve: Serve in bite-sized cubes on the side or inside tacos for a hearty, flavorful addition.
19. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a crunchy salad made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, often flavored with a hint of vinegar and sugar. The crisp texture and creamy dressing add a refreshing and cool element to your meal.
- Why it Works: The crunchiness and tangy flavor of coleslaw help balance the richness and spice of the tacos, offering a cool contrast.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl on the side or as a topping for the tacos for added crunch and flavor.
20. Charred Corn Salad
Charred Corn Salad is a vibrant combination of sweet, grilled corn, bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and a tangy lime vinaigrette. The smoky charred corn pairs beautifully with the freshness of cilantro and lime, creating a flavorful side dish.
- Why it Works: The smoky, charred corn and zesty lime dressing provide a rich, earthy flavor that complements the bold taco fillings.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl as a side or mix directly into tacos for an added burst of flavor and texture.
21. Pickled Red Onions
Pickled Red Onions are thinly sliced red onions marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color add a burst of acidity that cuts through rich and spicy dishes.
- Why it Works: The sharp acidity and sweet undertones of pickled onions provide a refreshing contrast to the savory taco fillings, adding a pop of flavor.
- How to Serve: Serve in small bowls as a topping for tacos or on the side for guests to add as desired.
22. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled Shrimp Skewers are shrimp marinated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, lime, and chili, then grilled to perfection. The shrimp are tender, slightly smoky, and infused with fresh, bright flavors.
- Why it Works: The smoky, citrusy shrimp add a light and flavorful protein option that complements the tacos without overpowering them.
- How to Serve: Serve on skewers as an appetizer or alongside tacos for a seafood option, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
23. Grilled Pineapple Salsa
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Grilled Pineapple Salsa is a sweet and smoky salsa made from charred pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. The natural sweetness of the pineapple, combined with a slight smokiness from the grill, creates refreshing salsa.
- Why it Works: The sweet, smoky salsa balances the savory tacos, adding a tropical flair to the meal.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl for dipping or spoon over tacos to add sweetness and brightness.
24. Baked Avocado Fries
Baked Avocado Fries are slices of ripe avocado coated in breadcrumbs and baked until golden and crispy. The creamy interior of the avocado contrasts with the crunchy exterior, creating a delicious bite-sized treat.
- Why it Works: The creamy avocado offers a rich contrast to the crispy fries, adding a cool and creamy element to the meal.
- How to Serve: Serve as a side dish or dip into a tangy ranch or chipotle sauce for extra flavor.
25. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are chickpeas roasted with olive oil and spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder, resulting in a crispy, crunchy texture with a spicy kick. The chickpeas are lightly browned and offer a savory, crunchy snack.
- Why it Works: The crunchy texture and bold spices enhance the tacos, adding a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
- How to Serve: Serve in a bowl as a crunchy snack or sprinkle over tacos for a spiced-up topping.
Conclusion
Serving the right sides can turn your walking taco meal from a simple snack into a complete dining experience.
With these 25 side dish options, you now have plenty of choices to create the perfect menu for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or planning a bigger event.
Remember that the best side dishes are those that match your guests’ tastes and your preparation time. Pick two or three options from our list that work best for your situation. Keep things simple – you don’t need to make all 25!
Tell us in the comments: Which side dish will you try first with your walking tacos? We’d love to hear about your favorite combinations and how they worked for your gathering.
