Taco night is a fun, flavorful way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. But the magic really happens when you add the perfect sides to complement those savory tortillas and fillings. These 12 easy side dishes to round out taco night will elevate your meal, adding fresh textures, bold flavors, and satisfying variety to every bite.
A great taco night side should be easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and perfectly balanced to complement the spices and ingredients in your tacos. From crisp, refreshing salads to creamy dips and hearty beans, this collection has something for every palate.
Start with a classic Mexican street corn salad, where sweet corn is grilled or roasted, then tossed with lime juice, cotija cheese, and chili powder. It’s vibrant, tangy, and adds a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with spicy tacos.
For a lighter option, try a simple cabbage slaw dressed in lime and cilantro. The crunch and acidity help cut through rich meats or cheesy fillings, refreshing your palate with every bite.
Beans are a taco night staple, and a spiced black bean salad with tomatoes, corn, and fresh herbs adds protein, fiber, and a pop of color. Or whip up refried beans seasoned with garlic and cumin for a creamy, comforting side.
Guacamole is a must-have for many taco lovers. Whether you make a chunky classic or add extras like mango or jalapeño, it’s a creamy, flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or as an extra topping for your tacos.
Rice dishes also shine alongside tacos. A cilantro lime rice is bright and fragrant, balancing the bold taco flavors, while Mexican street rice adds a spicy, savory kick with tomato and chipotle.
If you want something warm and cheesy, try queso fundido, melted cheese mixed with chorizo or mushrooms, perfect for dipping chips or spooning onto tacos.
Other crowd-pleasers include grilled peppers and onions, roasted sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of chili powder, or a fresh tomato and avocado salad drizzled with olive oil and lime juice.
What ties all these sides together is their simplicity and versatility. Most can be prepared ahead of time, letting flavors develop while freeing you up to focus on the main dish and your guests. They also allow for plenty of customization—adjust the heat level, swap veggies, or add your favorite herbs to make each dish your own.
These easy side dishes not only complement taco night but also bring balance and nutrition to the meal. The mix of fresh veggies, proteins, and grains ensures everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
With these 12 recipes, your taco night will be anything but ordinary. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these sides are sure to become staples in your dinner rotation. So, get ready to spice up your taco night with sides that shine just as brightly as your main dish!
Taco Slaw
This healthy coleslaw is great on the side or heaped on top of your taco. The cilantro and lime give a burst of fresh summer flavor, while the onions, carrots, and cabbage give this side a nice crunch. Add the jalapeño, and you have a dish that brings the heat. Pair this slaw with crunchy Baja-style fish tacos. “I love this…we eat it all the time now instead of lettuce on our tacos,” says reviewer GINGERLY88.
Mexican Rice
Craving that Mexican restaurant-style rice? Save yourself a trip (and a few bucks) and make this simple Mexican rice recipe at home. It’s sure to please even your pickiest eaters.
Frijoles de Olla
Frijoles de la Olla translates to “beans in a pot.” It’s one of the most common dishes in Mexico, and will complement any and all taco recipes.
Mexican Corn
“This recipe was given to me by my aunt in Texas, where they like everything hot! Now, my family wants it for holidays, barbeques, or just by itself,” says recipe creator KBALDRIDGE
Fresh Pineapple Salsa
Why not add a little fruit to your next taco meal? This tropical salad has a mix of pineapple, peppers, cilantro, and lime. It’s the perfect balance of sw
Lime Cilantro Rice
This rice is oh so simple, yet delicious. If you’re looking for something light to pair with heavy tacos, this recipe is the perfect pick.
Zesty Quinoa Salad
Try this new light and refreshing side salad next time you whip up some of Dee’s for your tacos. It’s light and citrusy but with hearty beans and quinoa for protein.
Quick and Easy Black Bean Soup
“All you need is a couple cans of beans, an onion, some bacon, and spices to whip up this simple but delicious soup,” says Chef John. It’s the perfect warmÂ
D’s Famous Salsa
“This is a Texas recipe I’ve developed and refined over many years. It’s very fast, easy, and I usually have everything on hand. I often give it as gifts to my family back East,” says recipe creator Denise Smith. Simply blend tomatoes, onion, garlic, lime juice, salt, green chiles, and cilantro in a blender or food processor.
Seven Layer DipÂ
We brought this for watching a football game and it was gone by the end. Very tasty (even when I substituted fat free sour cream), and simple to make,” says reviewer doestreich. This dip layers refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, veggies, and cheese.
More Side Dishes to Complete the Meal
We brought this for watching a football game and it was gone by the end. Very tasty (even when I substituted fat free sour cream), and simple to make,” says reviewer doestreich
