43 Traditional Mexican Side Dishes

When making a classic Mexican food, it is vital to understand the items that are often utilized. Guacamole, for example, is a fantastic side dish to offer at a party or with tacos, but it is not generally served as a side dish. Instead, it is a dip eaten with tortilla chips.

Salsa is another popular side dish offered. While some people mistake salsa for a condiment, it is really a side dish. It’s usually served with chips and is best eaten with your hands.

Whether you want to spice up your Mexican cuisine or just want a side dish to go with it, you’ve come to the correct spot!

This list includes some classic Mexican side dishes and snacks to go with tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, and more!

You’re in luck if you’re enjoying a classic Mexican meal! You will get a variety of excellent and interesting side dishes to complement your dinner.

These recipes will undoubtedly give a whole new depth to your dinner, from corn tortillas to beans, tacos to chiles rellenos.

Side dishes are classified into numerous categories. Some side dishes complement tacos, while others complement enchiladas.

Whatever kind of meal you pick, there are several methods to cook and enjoy it.

In this post, we’ll look at some of the most popular traditional Mexican side dishes and how to enjoy them.

But first

See Also: 22 Best Mexican Vegetable Side Dishes

Why Consider Serving Traditional Mexican Side Dishes?

Many people believe that Mexican cuisine is the most savory and delectable in the world.

Also see: What Should You Serve With Mexican Chicken Casserole? The Top 10 Side Dishes

While there is much discussion on this subject, one thing is certain: you can never go wrong with a bowl of Mexican cuisine.

It is worth mentioning, however, that some individuals find it impossible to put together a whole dinner without the typical side dishes.

In reality, many individuals are quite pleased with their meals without these accompaniments.

If you want to guarantee that you have a comprehensive Mexican supper, be sure to add a few Mexican side dishes.

The finest Mexican side dishes are ones that compliment the main course.

Guacamole, tacos, enchiladas, and chile con carne are some of the most classic Mexican side dishes.

These side dishes are lighter than other Mexican meals, making them an excellent alternative for individuals who like lighter fare.

If you’re feeling daring, serve your Mexican cuisine with fried plantains and a spicy salsa.

This results in a unique taste and texture combination that may be extremely nice.

However, if you want to try something new, there are a few classic Mexican side dishes to choose.

While the cuisine may not be precisely what you are accustomed to, it is nonetheless delicious and diverse.

You may be amazed at how tasty the foods can be.

Having said that, here are a few items to consider serving with your classic Mexican meal.

43 Traditional Mexican Side Dishes

Mexican side dishes may differ widely by area. Tacos and enchiladas are popular traditional Mexican side dishes in the United States. In Mexico, however, the most popular traditional side dish is generally tortillas with beans or refried beans.

1. Spanish Rice

This simple side dish is simple to prepare, affordable to purchase, and versatile.

To make this recipe your own, experiment with various toppings and ingredients.

Spanish rice goes well with salads and goes particularly well with your favorite Mexican restaurant’s chimichangas.

2. Mexican Slaw

A excellent classic Mexican side dish is often served with enchiladas, tacos, and other tortilla-based entrees.

This recipe may be used as an all-purpose side dish for a casual or celebratory supper. It’s a fantastic crunchy-sweet combo that can be utilized in a variety of ways!

3. Mexican Street Corn (elote)

I adore street corn, particularly when I can buy it fresh and local from my farmers market.

While fresh corn is undeniably delicious, the flavor of dried corn on the cob is difficult to top.

If you can’t get corn at your farmers market, try your local Latin Grocery shop or Mexican food market.

If you can’t locate corn in the grocery store, I recommend trying frozen corn.

While frozen corn is not as wonderful as fresh corn, it has a little sweeter taste and is much simpler to deal with.

4. Roasted Mexican Zucchini

Roasted zucchini is the ideal side dish for any Mexican-inspired supper.

It’s a simple side dish that complements Mexican cuisine beautifully, particularly when served hot and fresh.

It’s an excellent substitute for potatoes or rice and goes well with a range of recipes.

5. Guacamole

Look no farther than guacamole for a typical Mexican side dish that won’t break the wallet!

The greatest guacamole starts with a delicious handmade avocado puree.

Get your hands on a really ripe avocado and begin mashing straight away, but be cautious not to mash too hard or your guacamole may turn into mayonnaise.

Then just add your preferred spices and other fresh ingredients.

6. Mexican Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the ideal side dish for a traditional Mexican supper. They are abundant in Vitamin A, fiber, potassium, and iron, making them the ideal health meal!

They’re also tasty and flexible; they may be roasted, boiled, fried, mashed, or even made into a soup!

7. Mexican Corn Pudding

This is a classic Mexican recipe, but it may also be used to add flavor to any meal.

Its made with masa harina, which is corn flour.

This dish may be made ahead of time and then reheated as required. It’s really simple to make and packed with flavor.

8. Mexican Potato Salad

The traditional Mexican potato salad goes well with almost any Mexican dish. It’s simple, yet it’s full of flavor!

The easiest approach to create this recipe is to boil the potatoes first and then chill them before mixing in the rest of the ingredients.

10. Chicken Tortilla Soup

I had to check it up, but apparently it’s not a side dish at all, but rather a substantial dinner in and of itself!

If you like Tex-Mex cuisine, you should definitely try this wonderful chicken tortilla soup!

It has all of the same components as a regular chili dish, including meat, beans, cheese, and, of course, a generous serving of tortilla chips!

11. Mexican Cornbread

Mexican cornbread is a classic accompaniment to tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas.

It’s a delectable meal that’s ideal for breakfast, lunch, or supper!

12. Mexican Corn Fritters

I’ve seen them baked, boiled, fried, and steamed in a variety of ways, but corn fritters are my favorite.

They’re easy to create and much easier to eat. They may be served as an appetizer or as a side dish and will always make you grin.

13. Black Beans

Nothing surpasses a classic black bean salad with fajitas.

It’s easy, fast, and tasty. So much so that I always cook extra at gatherings for myself.

There can never be too many black bean dishes, particularly when they’re this delicious!

14. Cilantro-Lime Rice

Cilantro-lime rice is a wonderful side dish that Mexicans have loved for years.

This is not ordinary rice; it is a form of pilaf. If you want to add more flavor to plain white rice, this is a terrific option.

It goes well with tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and other classic Mexican fare.

15. Fiesta Red Potatoes

Potatoes are one of the most prevalent side dishes in Mexican cuisine. They’re wonderful on their own and go well with any kind of Mexican dish.

Fiesta Red Potatoes are a typical Mexican side dish.

This cultivar is recognized for its earthy taste, which complements the spice of Mexican cuisine nicely.

16. Fiesta Corn

Fiesta corn is a Mexican side dish that originated in the United States.

The sweetness of maize combined with the spice of chilies is a winning combination.

It’s one of my favorites from the book. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and dependably a hit.

17. Potato and Chorizo Casserole

This combo reminds me of a Mexican rendition of shepherd’s pie.

Both potato and chorizo are well-known global favorites, yet they are seldom encountered combined on a platter.

That’s why I created this delectable side dish for Mexican-themed celebrations.

It’s pretty simple to build, and the texture is very unique.

18. Frijoles Y Chorizo

These days, you may get a wide variety of chorizo at the grocery shop.

But it might be difficult to select which one to use, so I created this simple recipe.

This spicy and smoky chorizo is delicious on its own, but it also goes well with beans or other stews and soups.

It has a pleasant taste and texture and is ideal as a side dish.

Not sure how to make it? Check out this video:

19. Grilled Elote Flatbread

Elotes, or grilled corn, is a typical Mexican side dish.

It’s a simple snack that’s popular throughout the nation.

For the ultimate Mexican taste, serve with fresh cilantro and a dash of lime.

20. Patio Pintos

Tacos are a terrific way for many of us to start our Mexican culinary travels. But don’t forget about the traditional Mexican side dishes!

Patio pintos are one of my favorite classic Mexican side dishes.

It’s a tasty and simple side dish that includes three of my favorite ingredients: beans, potatoes, and pork.

21. Cumin Rice with Avocado

You may not be familiar with this side dish. But I bet you’ll be asking for it again and again!

This easy side dish is so wonderful that you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful! It’s spicy, delicious, and full of flavor.

It’s simple to make and works nicely with anything from tacos to fajitas.

So be ready to savor a delectable traditional side dish that will quickly become a Mexican lunchtime staple!

22. Salsa Corn Cakes

Corn cakes are a typical Mexican side dish prepared with masa, but I’ve discovered an excellent substitute: corn tortillas!

They have the same texture and taste as the original corn cakes and are ideal for dipping in the salsa you’ll be creating for the main course.

23. Fiesta Corn and Beans

Corn and beans are a typical Mexican side dish.

They’re so tasty that they’ve been a mainstay for generations.

And you know what?

You dont need any fancy ingredients to make it.

It’s so easy that you can make it at home in no time.

Furthermore, it complements all traditional Mexican recipes such as enchiladas, tacos, tamales, and burritos.

24. Green Chile Creamed Corn

Green chilies come to mind when you think about Mexican cuisine. They’re common in the cuisine, both as a primary item and as a side dish.

Stuffed, stewed, roasted, or fried green chiles are common preparations.

While most people are acquainted with green chile and cream cheese, you can use this recipe to create some delicious corn on the cob and creamed corn side dishes.

25. Avocado Onion Salad

Mexican cuisine is one of the most popular in the United States today.

It’s also one of the most adaptable and creative since there are so many various tastes and components to choose from.

Almost any traditional Mexican side dish may be turned into a delicious dinner.

For a traditional Mexican touch, I served it with an Avocado Onion Salad.

This salad is loaded with fresh veggies and is full of flavor.

It’s an excellent method to prepare a nutritious lunch or side dish at home.

26. Mexican Red Pozole with Pork

A bowl of crimson pozole is the ideal accompaniment to any Mexican meal.

It’s a substantial soup cooked with hominy and seasoned with tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of spices (See Also: Canned Hominy Recipes).

Manteca, or hog fat that floats to the top of the soup, is typically served with pozole.

27. Refried Bean Dip

Although it may not seem to be much, this meal is one of my favorite traditional Mexican side dishes.

This side dish’s simplicity makes it quick to prepare and satisfying. It’s ideal for a hot summer night.

28. Black Beans and Cheesy Rice Skillet

A simple side dish of black beans and cheesy rice goes well with enchiladas and other Mexican favorites.

If you like Mexican cuisine, you’ve certainly heard of this traditional pairing of black beans and cheese.

But do you know how to make it at home?

29. Skillet Nacho Dip

Nothing says traditional like nachos!

To improve the flavor of your favorite nacho chips, roast them on the stovetop beforehand.

That way theyll be crisp and delicious.

If you want to create them from scratch, then follow these simple steps:

1. Mix together corn chips and shredded cheese.
2. Add salsa and diced tomatoes.
3. Bake for about 10 minutes at 350F.

30. Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky grilled corn is a popular Mexican side dish that works with almost everything.

This is particularly true when served with enchiladas, refried beans, rice and beans, or just a bowl of salsa.

Smoky barbecued corn is really simple to prepare! Simply top with cilantro and green onions, sprinkle with extra virgin olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

31. Guacamole Quinoa Salad

Guacamole is an excellent accompaniment to tacos and burritos.

But did you know it’s much more adaptable than that?

Here’s a simple, nutritious guacamole recipe that’s full of flavor and nutrients.

It goes well with a variety of cuisines, exactly like traditional Mexican side dishes!

32. Green Chili and Roasted Tomato Guacamole

Green chiles, whether you like them or not, are a fantastic complement to any cuisine, particularly in Mexico.

This classic Mexican side dish is simple to make and goes well with any dinner.

33. Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs

You may not have considered deviled eggs as a side dish, but I promise you’ll wish they were on the table at every family gathering.

That’s because they’re delicious and simple to create!

The cayenne pepper is the recipe’s secret ingredient. You may think it’s too spicy for eggs, but believe me: a dab of this spice provides a fantastic kick to your eggs without adding any heat.

I’ve always liked a little heat in my eggs, so I’m excited to share a recipe with you!

34. Sun-Dried Tomato Guacamole

While this meal has grown in popularity in the United States in recent years, it has been served in Mexico for generations.

Its name translates to “sun-dried squash,” and it is also known as poblano squash.

It’s a flexible vegetable that can be served in a variety of ways, but my favorite way to eat it is roasted with spices, lime juice, and cilantro.

This simple side dish’s fresh taste is ideal for Mexican cuisine. It also goes well with any kind of fish, poultry, or beef meal.

35. Tater Tot Nachos

What could be better than a delicious Mexican side dish? A tasty Mexican side dish that goes well with nachos.

It not only makes the nachos more tasty, but it also provides you an excuse to have fun and eat as much cheese as you like.

This dish’s blend of salty and crunchy textures, paired with spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors, making it a hit.

36. Grilled Mango Salsa

In the summer, I like utilizing fresh fruits. Mangoes are especially delicious and juicy during the warm season when they are in season.

Grilling them on a grill enhances their flavor. You can prepare this grilled mango salsa ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

This tasty side dish complements a variety of tacos, nachos, and burritos.

37. Fish Taco Salad

For breakfast, I like eating Mexican cuisine. You don’t need any more calories to go with those burritos!

When I was in college, I discovered a new style of taco salad. It contained all of the typical Mexican components, such as refried beans, lettuce, avocado, tomatoes, radishes, and more.

It’s tasty and quite simple to prepare. It just takes a few minutes to assemble and is ready to use when you are.

38. Slow-Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Slow-cooker chicken enchiladas are a traditional Mexican recipe that is simple to prepare.

This dish will keep you out of the kitchen as it cooks in the slow cooker.

You also don’t have to worry about overcooking since the slow cooker will do it for you.

39. Mini Nachos

Nothing beats a genuine Mexican dinner, and nachos are unquestionably one of my favorites.

They’re the ideal snack meal for any occasion since they’re so simple to create (particularly with micro chips).

40. Mexican Pinto Beans

Tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and tamales are some of the most traditional Mexican meals found across the United States.

And they always include some kind of beans.

But what about a staple side dish seen in almost all Mexican restaurants?

Lets start by talking about pinto beans.

Pinto beans are quite easy to prepare. They are just dry beans and water.

Thats it!

You must soak them for at least 8 hours before to cooking. Then boil them until they are soft.

However, once cooked, they have a very mild taste, which is why they complement so many various recipes!

They may be used in practically every Mexican dish, from tacos to tamales.

41. Chilaquiles Verdes

Chilaquiles Verdes, or green chilaquiles, are a meal of tortilla chips, eggs, and salsa that dates back to the mid-1800s.

If you’re unfamiliar with chilaquiles, you may be shocked to hear that they’re a side dish rather than a dessert.

I first tasted them at Casa Sanchez, a Mexican restaurant in Mexico.

I had no idea what these were before I purchased.

But it was love at first taste when I began eating them!

They’re very basic, yet they contain a lot of flavor.

42. Vegetarian Calabacitas Quesadillas

A traditional Mexican side dish that is full of flavor and very easy to make is a quesadilla.

A traditional Mexican side dish that is full of flavor and very easy to make is a quesadilla.

43. Queso Fundido

A traditional Mexican side dish that is full of flavor and very easy to make is a quesadilla.

A traditional Mexican side dish that is full of flavor and very easy to make is a quesadilla.

11 Tips for Choosing A Traditional Mexican Side Dish

Not sure what to look for or consider when selecting a classic Mexican side dish?

Follow these tips:

Tip 1: Avoid the Cheese

It may seem paradoxical, but when choosing a classic Mexican side dish, you should avoid cheese. Many salsa meals are basically simply plain tomato sauce with spices added. So, if you’re searching for a classic side dish, try chili con carne or refried beans.

Tip 2: Look For A Smoky Flavor

or habanero chilies. These peppers are used to provide a smokey taste to dishes.Mexican cuisine has a variety of smokey tastes. Look for recipes that include any of the following ingredients: chiles chipotle, ancho chilies, poblano peppers, guajillo peppers

Tip 3: Look For Some Chunks Of Vegetables

Vegetables are an essential component of Mexican cuisine and should be included in your side dish. Look for recipes that use potatoes, squash, corn, and beans.

Tip 4: Look For A Strong, Fresh Salsa

Choose a salsa that has a robust, fresh taste. The tastes of the food will be more evident as a result, rather than the flavors of the salsa overwhelming the dish.

Tip 5: Look For A Spicy, Tangy Salsa

Look for a salsa with a spicy, tangy taste if you want a more nuanced, tasty salsa.

Tip 6: Get Your Ingredients From the Local Market

For any side dish, you want the freshest ingredients possible. That means you’ll have to go to the local market to acquire your beans, rice, and maize. If you live near a farmers market, that’s even better. If not, there are several internet alternatives for locating fresh Mexican cuisine.

Tip 7: Don’t Use Tinned Foods

Tinned beans are not a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine. They are, nevertheless, an acceptable replacement. However, they are not the same as a fresh bean. If you use them, be sure to thoroughly rinse them.

Tip 8: Buy Organic

Organic beans, maize, and rice often taste better than non-organic equivalents. They’re also often less expensive.

Tip 9: Avoid Anything That Sounds “Americanized”

You don’t want to eat corn chips or any other Americanized version of a classic Mexican side dish if you’re going to eat tacos or burritos. You want something with a genuine flavor and texture. That means no tortilla chips, refried beans, salsa, or anything else.

Tip 10: Look For Something Freshly Baked

In addition, the bulk of traditional Mexican side dishes are baked or fried rather than raw. This is due to the importance of fresh ingredients in the recipe. So seek for products that state “freshly baked” on the packaging.

Tip 11: Don’t Be Afraid To Ask

Finally, don’t be hesitant to contact the chef or owner if you have any queries about a certain dish. They may not be able to answer all of your questions, but they will be able to put you in the right path.

Conclusion

Mexican food is very popular in the U.S.

It’s also a terrific option for entertaining since you can add a lot of variety by including various side dishes.

We suggest offering some of these classic Mexican side dishes with your main course to ensure that your guests enjoy a complete dinner.

They’re simple to create and won’t take long to prepare.

Many of these will also give you some extra portions to save for later.