What Goes Well With Tacos? A Guide to Creative Toppings, Side Dishes & More

Introduction

Taco nights are always a hit. Whether you’re gathering friends and family for a casual dinner or hosting a themed party, tacos are always a crowd-pleaser. But what goes well with tacos? In this article, we explore creative toppings, side dishes and beverage pairings that will make your next taco night even more delicious.

What Are Tacos?

Tacos originated in Mexico and have become popular around the world. They consist of a small corn or wheat tortilla filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, cheese and salsa. According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, tacos are one of the most popular menu items in restaurants today.

Side Dishes to Serve with Tacos

When serving tacos, it’s important to include side dishes that complement the flavors of the tacos. Here are some popular side dishes to serve with tacos:

Refried Beans

Refried beans are a classic side dish to serve with tacos. They are made with cooked and mashed pinto beans that are fried in lard or oil. Refried beans are full of flavor and can be served either hot or cold.

Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a delicious accompaniment to tacos. It is made with long-grain white rice cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and seasoned with cumin, garlic and onion. Spanish rice is a great way to add flavor and texture to any taco meal.

Mexican-Style Corn

Mexican-style corn is a flavorful side dish made with sweet corn, butter, chili powder, cilantro and lime juice. It is the perfect balance of sweet and savory and adds a nice crunch to tacos.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish to serve with tacos. Try grilling peppers, onions, squash, mushrooms and zucchini and adding them to tacos for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Salad

Salads are a great way to add freshness to tacos. Try making a simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and a light vinaigrette dressing. Or, go all out and make a Mexican salad with black beans, corn, peppers and a creamy chipotle dressing.

Creative Toppings for Tacos

One of the best things about tacos is that they can be topped with just about anything. Here are some creative toppings to try on your tacos:

Cheese

Cheese is one of the most popular toppings for tacos. Try using shredded cheese, crumbled queso fresco or even melted cheese. Cheese adds a rich creaminess to tacos that can’t be beat.

Sour Cream

Sour cream is a classic topping for tacos. It adds a cool and creamy element to the tacos that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Try adding a dollop of sour cream to your tacos for a delicious twist.

Hot Sauce

For those who like it hot, hot sauce is a must-have topping for tacos. Hot sauce adds a kick of heat that complements the other flavors in the tacos. Try different types of hot sauce to find the perfect one for your tacos.

Avocado

Avocado adds a rich and creamy texture to tacos. It is also a healthy topping that is high in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Avocado is a great option for those looking to add a healthy twist to their tacos.

Salsa

Salsa is a versatile topping for tacos. You can use store-bought salsa or make your own. Homemade salsa is easy to make and can be tailored to your taste. Check out the recipes at the end of this article for two delicious salsa recipes.

Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Taco Fillings

Tacos don’t have to be unhealthy. There are plenty of alternatives to traditional taco fillings that are both delicious and nutritious. Here are some healthy alternatives to traditional taco fillings:

Lentils

Lentils are a great alternative to ground beef in tacos. They are high in protein and fiber and are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils can be cooked with spices and herbs to give them a flavorful kick.

Tofu

Tofu is another great alternative to ground beef in tacos. It is high in protein and has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with spices and marinades. Tofu is a great way to add texture and flavor to tacos without the added fat and calories.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a nutty grain that is high in protein and fiber. It makes a great taco filling and can be cooked with spices and herbs for even more flavor. Quinoa is a great way to add nutrition and texture to tacos.

Fish

Fish tacos are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef tacos. Fish is low in fat and calories and high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. Try adding grilled or baked fish to tacos for a healthier option.

Veggies

Vegetables are a great way to add nutrition and flavor to tacos. Try adding roasted veggies such as bell peppers, onions and mushrooms to tacos or try grilling them for an extra smoky flavor. Veggies are a great way to make tacos healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Beverage Pairings for Tacos

No taco night is complete without a tasty beverage to wash it down. Here are some beverage pairings to serve with tacos:

Beer

Beer is a classic pairing for tacos. The carbonation helps to cut through the richness of the tacos and the maltiness of the beer pairs perfectly with the flavors of the tacos. Try serving a light lager for a refreshing pairing.

Margarita

Nothing says “taco night” like a margarita. Margaritas are a perfect pairing for tacos because the sweetness of the drink cuts through the spiciness of the tacos. Try making a pitcher of margaritas for your next taco night.

Sangria

Sangria is a fruity and refreshing beverage that pairs perfectly with tacos. The sweetness of the sangria complements the spiciness of the tacos and the fruit adds a nice touch of flavor. Try making a pitcher of sangria for your next taco night.

Tequila

Tequila is a great way to add a Mexican twist to your taco night. Tequila can be served as shots, mixed into cocktails or sipped straight. Tequila has a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the flavors of tacos.

Soft Drinks

For those who don’t drink alcohol, soft drinks are a great way to wash down tacos. Soft drinks come in a variety of flavors and can be served with or without ice. Try serving a variety of soft drinks for a fun and festive taco night.

Recipes for Homemade Salsa and Guacamole

Homemade salsa and guacamole are a great way to add freshness and flavor to tacos. Here are two delicious recipes for homemade salsa and guacamole:

Salsa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeno pepper, cilantro and garlic.
2. Add lime juice, salt and pepper and stir until combined.
3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Guacamole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mash avocados with a fork.
2. Add onion, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, salt and pepper and stir until combined.
3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Ideas for Decorating a Taco Bar

A taco bar is a great way to serve tacos to a large group of people. Here are some ideas for decorating a taco bar:

Tablecloths

Tablecloths are a great way to add color and festivity to a taco bar. Choose bright colors and patterns to make the bar stand out. You can also use fabric scraps to create a patchwork tablecloth for a more unique look.

Serving Dishes

Choose colorful serving dishes to display the food. Use bowls, platters and trays to display the tacos, sides and toppings. Make sure to choose dishes that are big enough to accommodate all of the food so that guests can easily help themselves.

Utensils

Make sure to provide utensils such as forks, knives and spoons for guests to use. You can also provide plates and napkins for guests to use while they eat.

Napkins

Napkins are a must at any taco bar. Choose colorful napkins that coordinate with the rest of the decorations. You can also make your own napkins from fabric scraps for a more personal touch.

Plates

Provide plates for guests to put their tacos on. Choose plates that match the rest of the decorations or use mismatched plates for a more eclectic look.

Conclusion

Tacos are a popular and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. From refried beans to guacamole, there are plenty of side dishes and toppings to choose from to make your next taco night even more delicious. Plus, there are plenty of beverage pairings and recipes for homemade salsa and guacamole to make your taco night even more special.