15 Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

As the excitement builds for taco night, it’s time to give shrimp tacos the spotlight they deserve. While these tasty treats are certainly delightful on their own, there’s no denying that pairing them with a well-chosen side dish elevates the entire experience.

The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lime slaw, and velvety avocado in a single taco is undeniably mouthwatering, but it’s only when you add a complementary side that the magic truly unfolds.

Sautéed Garlic Broccoli

Imagine being able to savor the sweet, nutty flavor of broccoli in a way that will leave you craving more. This unassuming vegetable is elevated to new heights with just a few key ingredients. By combining broccoli florets with minced garlic, kosher salt, and olive oil, you can create a dish that’s equal parts simple and sublime. The addition of red pepper flakes provides the perfect kick, making this recipe a must-have for any meal.

Chicken Fajitas

Discover a twist on traditional taco night with this scrumptious chicken fajitas recipe! This flavorful addition complements shrimp tacos perfectly, requiring minimal effort in the kitchen. Simply sauté onions and peppers, cook chicken to perfection, and combine for a mouthwatering meal. For an added kick of spice, this recipe is the perfect solution.

Mango Salsa

In just ten minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering mango salsa that perfectly complements shrimp tacos or any seafood taco for that matter. This tropical treat combines salty, sweet, and tangy flavors to tantalize your taste buds. With only seven simple ingredients, the flavor is elevated, making it an ideal replacement for traditional tomato salsas during the warmer months.

Mexican Quinoa Salad

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this wholesome and delectable Quinoa salad, packed with protein-rich ingredients and an array of crunchy textures from bell peppers, tomatoes, corn, and red onions. The addition of black beans takes it to a whole new level of satisfaction as a filling side dish. But what truly elevates this dish is the tangy and refreshing zesty cilantro lime dressing that ties everything together with its bright and citrusy notes.

Jicama Slaw

While classic coleslaw is a staple in many cuisines, there’s room for innovation. By incorporating jicama or Mexican ham into the mix, you can add a delightful textural element and a touch of sweetness to this already-beloved side dish. The result is a vibrant, refreshing creation that will elevate your dining experience.

Try it with jicama for a satisfying crunch, or opt for the richness of Mexican ham – either way, you’ll be treated to a flavor profile that surpasses the classic coleslaw you’re familiar with.

Charro Beans

This hearty Charro Beans recipe may take about 35 minutes to prepare, but its rich flavors and tender beans make it a worthwhile endeavor. The slow-cooked pinto beans are infused with the savory goodness of bacon, ham, chorizo, and onions, along with a blend of spices that elevate the dish’s flavor profile. A perfect accompaniment to your shrimp tacos, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your Mexican cuisine repertoire.

Pico de Gallo

As we continue exploring the world of shrimp taco toppings, another standout option deserves attention. This pico de gallo recipe brings together the flavors of onions, tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro to create a chunky, thick condiment that’s a far cry from your typical salsa. When paired with shrimp tacos, the result is nothing short of culinary nirvana.

Caramelized Plantains

When it comes to crafting a budget-friendly side dish that’s both sweet and satisfying, plantains are an excellent choice. These caramelized delights are surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring only a simple syrup to elevate their natural flavor. What’s more, they offer a unique twist on traditional taco pairings, striking a perfect balance of savory and sweet notes that will leave you craving more.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this cilantro lime rice recipe, a match made in heaven for pairing with shrimp tacos and beyond! A single bite transports you to a world of bright, zesty notes, courtesy of garlic, green onion, white rice, lime juice, and cilantro’s signature pungency. This silky-smooth side dish is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite taco creations.

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)

Mexican street corn salad, also known as Esquites, is a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine. Its harmonious blend of vibrant flavors and rich cheese has captured the hearts of many. This delectable salad’s simplicity is its greatest strength – requiring only a few essential ingredients to bring forth a symphony of tastes, ranging from tangy to creamy, salty to spicy.

The magic begins when it’s served on a cob, transformed into a delightful salad that’s as effortless to prepare as it is to devour. The culmination of this culinary masterpiece is the application of a zesty, cheesy, lime-infused dressing, rendering each bite an indulgent treat for the senses.

Mexican Chopped Salad

The versatility of shrimp tacos is undeniable, and this chopped salad is the perfect accompaniment. This Mexican-inspired delight combines bell peppers, onions, jicama, lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, corn, and zucchini in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or use it to top your tacos, be prepared for a refreshing culinary experience. The vibrant dressing adds an extra layer of complexity, making this salad a standout addition to any meal.

Mexican Bean Stew (Frijoles De La Olla)

Authentic Mexican cuisine takes center stage as we delve into the rich and flavorful world of Frijoles de la Olla, or ‘beans in the pot’. This hearty bean stew is a staple in Mexican households for generations, and its versatility knows no bounds. Whether served alongside succulent shrimp tacos or enjoyed as a main event, this dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The foundation of this beloved recipe lies in the slow-cooked pinto beans, which absorb the deep flavors of sautéed onions, bay leaves, garlic, and a touch of salt. For an unparalleled taste experience, cook this stew in a Dutch oven, allowing the aromas to meld together in perfect harmony.

Sopapillas

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures that Sopapillas bring to the table – particularly when paired with succulent shrimp tacos. These airy, sweet dough pieces are deep-fried to a golden crisp, inviting you to add your own twist by stuffing them with creamy or fruity fillings. For an added layer of indulgence, consider dusting them with powdered sugar and drizzling with honey. The result is a treat that’s sure to leave you craving more.

Guacamole

This classic guacamole recipe is a staple for any taco night, offering a creamy and savory twist that’s perfect as both a dip and a topping. The addition of lemon juice infuses the dish with a zesty boost, elevating its flavor profile to new heights. In just 10 minutes, you’ll be enjoying this delectable side dish that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.