20 Sides to Serve with Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are a favorite for many, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Pairing these tacos with the right sides can elevate your meal. In this article, we’ll share 20 sides to serve with Fish Tacos that complement fish tacos beautifully.

Classic Mexican Sides to Serve with Fish Tacos

1. Mexican Rice

Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a traditional side that pairs wonderfully with fish tacos. This flavorful dish is made by simmering rice with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. The result is a savory and aromatic rice that adds a hearty element to your meal.

Ingredients:

• Rice
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Cumin and chili powder

Preparation:

1. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add rice and toast lightly.
3. Stir in tomatoes, broth, and spices.
4. Simmer until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Mexican rice provides a satisfying base that absorbs the juices from the fish tacos, creating a delicious combination.

2. Refried Beans

Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and a perfect side for fish tacos. These beans are cooked and then mashed, often with lard or oil, until they achieve a creamy consistency.

Ingredients:

• Pinto beans
• Onion
• Garlic
• Lard or vegetable oil
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Cook beans until tender.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in lard or oil.
3. Add beans and mash while cooking.
4. Season with salt to taste.

Refried beans offer a rich, creamy texture that pairs well with the flaky fish in the tacos. They also add protein and fiber to your meal, making it more filling and nutritious.

3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a popular and flavorful side dish. Corn on the cob is grilled and then slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.

Ingredients:

• Corn on the cob
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Cotija cheese
• Chili powder
• Lime juice

Preparation:

1. Grill corn until charred.
2. Mix mayonnaise and sour cream.
3. Spread mixture over grilled corn.
4. Sprinkle with cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.

Elote provides a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that complements the light and fresh taste of fish tacos. The creamy coating and the crunch of the corn kernels create a delightful contrast.

4. Guacamole

No Mexican meal is complete without guacamole. This creamy avocado dip is simple to make and pairs perfectly with fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Avocados
• Lime juice
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Cilantro
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Mash avocados in a bowl.
2. Mix in lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
3. Season with salt to taste.

Guacamole adds a rich, buttery texture and a fresh, zesty flavor to your meal. It can be used as a dip for tortilla chips or as a topping for the fish tacos themselves.

Fresh and Light Sides to Serve with Fish Tacos

5. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salad is a refreshing side that pairs excellently with fish tacos. This light and crisp dish helps balance the richness of the tacos and adds a cooling element to the meal.

Ingredients:

• Cucumbers
• Red onions
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation:

1. Slice cucumbers and red onions thinly.
2. Mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
3. Toss cucumbers and onions in the dressing.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

This salad’s tangy and sweet flavors, combined with the crunch of the cucumbers, provide a refreshing contrast to the savory fish tacos. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient side dish.

6. Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is a vibrant and tropical side that adds a burst of color and flavor to your fish taco meal. The sweetness of the mangoes complements the savory fish, while the other ingredients add layers of taste.

Ingredients:

• Mangoes
• Red bell peppers
• Red onions
• Jalapeños
• Lime juice
• Cilantro

Preparation:

1. Dice mangoes, red bell peppers, and red onions.
2. Finely chop jalapeños and cilantro.
3. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
4. Add lime juice and toss gently.

This salsa is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making your meal look as good as it tastes. The sweet and spicy combination enhances the flavors of the fish tacos, creating a balanced and delightful dish.

7. Pineapple Coleslaw

Pineapple coleslaw is a unique twist on the traditional coleslaw. It incorporates the sweetness of pineapple with the crunchiness of cabbage, creating a side dish that is both refreshing and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• Shredded cabbage
• Pineapple chunks
• Carrots
• Mayonnaise
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, pineapple chunks, and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill before serving.

Pineapple coleslaw adds a sweet and tangy element to your meal, perfectly complementing the flavors of the fish tacos. It’s a great way to incorporate fruit into your dish, adding both nutrition and taste.

8. Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Their tangy and slightly sweet flavor makes them an ideal side for fish tacos, adding a sharp contrast that enhances the overall taste.

Ingredients:

• Red onions
• Vinegar
• Water
• Sugar
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Thinly slice red onions.
2. In a jar, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the sliced onions to the jar and let them sit for at least an hour.

Pickled red onions are quick to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Their vibrant color and sharp taste make them a standout side dish that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of fish tacos.

Unique and Flavorful Sides to Serve with Fish Tacos

9. Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a spicy and creamy side dish that adds a bit of heat to your meal. These poppers are stuffed with cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked or fried to perfection.

Ingredients:

• Jalapeños
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs

Preparation:

1. Slice jalapeños in half and remove seeds.
2. Mix cream cheese and cheddar cheese together.
3. Fill jalapeño halves with the cheese mixture.
4. Dip each stuffed jalapeño in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Jalapeño poppers bring a spicy kick to your meal, balancing the mild flavors of the fish tacos. The creamy filling and crispy coating create a delightful texture contrast.

10. Cilantro Lime Quinoa

Cilantro lime quinoa is a nutritious and flavorful side that complements the light and fresh taste of fish tacos. This dish is easy to prepare and adds a healthy element to your meal.

Ingredients:

• Quinoa
• Vegetable broth
• Lime juice
• Cilantro
• Olive oil
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and salt.
3. Serve warm or chilled.

Cilantro lime quinoa is a versatile side that pairs well with many dishes. Its light and zesty flavor profile makes it a great match for fish tacos, adding both texture and a burst of freshness.

11. Black Bean Salad

Black bean salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that adds protein and fiber to your meal. This salad combines black beans with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.

Ingredients:

• Black beans
• Corn
• Bell peppers
• Red onions
• Cilantro
• Lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Rinse and drain black beans.
2. In a bowl, combine beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and chopped red onions.
3. Add lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss to mix and chill before serving.

Black bean salad offers a combination of textures and flavors that enhance the fish tacos. The beans provide a satisfying base, while the vegetables and dressing add freshness and zest.

12. Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky barbecued corn is a delicious and visually appealing side that brings a rich, smoky flavor to your meal. This side is inspired by Mexican street corn but with a smoky twist.

Ingredients:

• Corn on the cob
• Olive oil
• Smoked paprika
• Parmesan cheese
• Lime juice
• Cilantro

Preparation:

1. Brush corn with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
2. Grill until lightly charred.
3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.

The smoky flavor of the grilled corn pairs beautifully with the light and flaky fish tacos. The cheese and lime juice add an extra layer of flavor, making this a standout side dish.

Dips and Sauces to Serve with Fish Tacos

13. Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy avocado dip is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. This dip can be used as a side for chips or as a topping for fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Avocados
• Greek yogurt
• Lime juice
• Garlic
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Mash avocados in a bowl.
2. Mix in Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt.
3. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

This dip offers a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs well with the fresh taste of fish tacos. It’s also a healthier alternative to traditional sour cream-based dips.

14. Salsa Verde

Salsa verde is a classic Mexican sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, and fresh herbs. It’s a zesty and flavorful addition to any fish taco meal.

Ingredients:

• Tomatillos
• Green chilies
• Cilantro
• Lime juice
• Garlic
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Roast tomatillos and chilies until slightly charred.
2. Blend with cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt until smooth.
3. Serve as a dip or a topping for tacos.

Salsa verde adds a tangy and slightly spicy element to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the fish tacos. Its vibrant green color also makes your dish more visually appealing.

15. Pico de Gallo

Pico de gallo is a fresh and simple salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. This side is perfect for adding a burst of freshness to your fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Cilantro
• Lime juice
• Jalapeños
• Salt

Preparation:

1. Dice tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños.
2. Mix with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
3. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Pico de gallo is a versatile and easy-to-make side that complements the flavors of fish tacos. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a favorite addition to any meal.

Crunchy and Crispy Sides to Serve with Fish Tacos

16. Tortilla Chips with Various Dips

Tortilla chips are a classic side that pairs well with various dips, enhancing the fish taco experience. These crispy chips can be served with guacamole, salsa, or queso dip, providing a crunchy texture to complement the soft fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Tortilla chips
• Dips (guacamole, salsa, queso)

Preparation:

1. Arrange tortilla chips on a platter.
2. Serve with a selection of dips.

Tortilla chips and dips are easy to prepare and offer a variety of flavors, making them a versatile side. The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the soft, flaky fish in the tacos.

17. Coleslaw with a Twist

Coleslaw is a traditional side, but adding unique ingredients like jicama or apples can give it a fresh twist. This crunchy salad adds a refreshing element to your meal.

Ingredients:

• Shredded cabbage
• Jicama or apples
• Carrots
• Mayonnaise
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, jicama or apples, and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill before serving.

Adding jicama or apples to coleslaw provides a sweet and crunchy twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the fish tacos.

18. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Paprika

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into fries.
3. Toss fries in olive oil, salt, and paprika.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory combination that complements the fish tacos. They are easy to make and provide a nutritious side option.

Sides with a Twist to Serve with Fish Tacos

19. Watermelon Gazpacho

Watermelon gazpacho is a refreshing and unique side that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to your meal. This cold soup is perfect for hot days and pairs well with fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• Watermelon
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red bell peppers
• Red onions
• Lime juice
• Cilantro

Preparation:

1. Blend watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions until smooth.
2. Add lime juice and cilantro.
3. Chill before serving.

This gazpacho is a refreshing side that complements the flavors of fish tacos. Its sweet and tangy taste provides a delightful contrast to the savory tacos.

20. Hibiscus Margaritas

Hibiscus margaritas are a fun and flavorful beverage pairing for fish tacos. Made with hibiscus tea, tequila, and lime juice, these margaritas add a floral and tangy twist to your meal.

Ingredients:

• Hibiscus tea
• Tequila
• Lime juice
• Agave syrup
• Salt for rimming

Preparation:

1. Brew hibiscus tea and let it cool.
2. In a shaker, combine hibiscus tea, tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Rim glasses with salt and pour the margarita mixture over ice.

Hibiscus margaritas offer a refreshing and vibrant drink option that pairs well with the fresh flavors of fish tacos.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)

What are the best sides to server with fish tacos?

The best sides for fish tacos include Mexican rice, refried beans, elote, guacamole, cucumber salad, mango salsa, pineapple coleslaw, pickled red onions, jalapeño poppers, cilantro lime quinoa, black bean salad, smoky barbecued corn, creamy avocado dip, salsa verde, pico de gallo, tortilla chips with dips, coleslaw with a twist, sweet potato fries, watermelon gazpacho, and hibiscus margaritas.

Can I prepare these sides in advance?

Yes, many of these sides can be prepared in advance. Dishes like pickled red onions, coleslaw, and quinoa salads can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Are these sides suitable for other types of tacos?

Absolutely. These sides are versatile and can complement other types of tacos such as chicken, beef, or vegetarian options.

What beverages pair well with fish tacos?

In addition to hibiscus margaritas, other good beverage options include Mexican beers, limeade, and aguas frescas.

How do I balance the flavors in a fish taco meal? Balancing flavors involves combining different tastes and textures. Pair the savory fish tacos with fresh, tangy, and crunchy sides to create a well-rounded meal.

Wrapping Up

Pairing the right sides to serve with fish tacos enhances the overall dining experience. From classic Mexican dishes to unique twists, these sides add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your meal. Try these side dishes and enjoy a delicious fish taco feast.

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