Walking tacos have become a go-to option for casual gatherings, tailgates, and parties. They’re portable, customizable, and downright delicious. But let’s be honest, the real fun begins when you start pairing them with the perfect sides. From classic Mexican dishes to refreshing salads and even unexpected twists, the right side dishes can elevate your walking taco experience to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll explore the most mouthwatering sides that perfectly complement walking tacos, ensuring your next taco night is an absolute hit!
Traditional Accompaniments for Walking Tacos
Spanish Rice: A Hearty and Flavorful Side
Spanish rice is, without a doubt, a staple side dish that pairs seamlessly with walking tacos. Not only is this classic Mexican rice dish seasoned with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a dash of cumin, but it also adds a hearty texture and rich flavor to your meal. Furthermore, whether it’s served warm and fluffy or slightly crispy from the skillet, it creates a harmonious balance when paired with the crunchy textures of walking tacos. To make your Spanish rice truly authentic, you can easily follow this traditional recipe for Mexican street corn, which, incidentally, shares similar seasonings and enhances the overall meal experience.
Refried Beans: Creamy and Satisfying
Refried beans, on the one hand, offer a creamy, protein-rich option to round out your walking taco meal. In addition, they are made from pinto or black beans, which are typically mashed and cooked with onions, garlic, and spices to create their signature flavor. Moreover, their smooth consistency and savory taste make them an incredibly popular side that perfectly complements the zesty, spicy notes of walking tacos. Whether you serve them as a dip or as a plated side, they consistently add a touch of comfort to the meal, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): A Crowd-Pleaser
Few sides are as popular and well-loved as Mexican street corn, or elote. This dish features grilled corn on the cob coated with mayonnaise or sour cream, dusted with chili powder, and topped with crumbled cheese. It’s messy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. The creamy, tangy topping of elote boosts the bold flavors of walking tacos while adding a fun and enjoyable touch to your meal.
Why These Classics Shine
These traditional sides bring bold flavors and textures to the table, complementing the zest and crunch of walking tacos without overpowering them. They’re versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of palates, making them the perfect addition to any taco night.
What is a good side to have with walking tacos? Fresh and Flavorful Salads
Pico de Gallo: A Fresh and Zesty Salsa
Pico de gallo, or salsa fresca, is the perfect side for walking tacos. This vibrant mix of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice adds a refreshing, tangy kick. It balances the savory flavors of walking tacos while providing a crunchy, juicy texture that contrasts with crispy corn chips. It’s also easy to prepare and can double as a taco topping. For a traditional taste, try this authentic pico de gallo recipe to enhance your meal.
Guacamole: A Must-Have Side for Walking Tacos
No taco meal feels complete without the silky smoothness of guacamole. In addition, this side is made from ripe avocados, lime juice, onions, and optional spices. Moreover, it adds a creamy, nutrient-packed complement to walking tacos. Its subtle richness and mild taste also balance the bold, spicy flavors of taco seasoning. You can spread it over tacos, scoop it with chips, or serve it as a side dish. No matter how it’s served, guacamole is always a crowd-pleaser. Furthermore, it provides health benefits as a great source of healthy fats and potassium.
Black Bean and Corn Salad: A Perfect Side for Walking Tacos
For a side dish that’s both hearty and tasty, black bean and corn salad is a great choice. This mix of black beans, corn, red peppers, and lime juice not only looks bright but also gives a protein-packed bite. The salad’s mild taste and crisp crunch go well with the smoky and tangy flavors in walking tacos. It’s also an easy option to prepare ahead of time for parties or busy nights.
The Perfect Balance
These fresh salads shine by adding vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and balanced textures to your walking taco meal. Whether you prefer the zest of pico de gallo, the creaminess of guacamole, or the heartiness of black bean and corn salad, these dishes will undoubtedly elevate your taco night to new heights.
Crunchy and Savory Sides
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: A Classic Side for Walking Tacos
What’s a taco night without a big bowl of tortilla chips paired with an array of salsas? Tortilla chips offer the perfect crunch to complement the tender textures in walking tacos. Whether you choose a classic tomato salsa, a smoky chipotle salsa, or a fruity mango variation, there’s a flavor to suit every taste. The salty crunch of the chips serves as a delicious vehicle for dipping, and they’re just as good crumbled on top of your walking tacos for added texture. Consider preparing your salsa at home with fresh ingredients to elevate this simple yet crowd-pleasing side.
Mexican Coleslaw: Tangy and Crisp
Mexican coleslaw is an exciting twist on the traditional side, blending shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro with a zesty lime and chili dressing. This vibrant and tangy salad is the perfect foil for the savory, spiced flavors of walking tacos. The crisp texture of the cabbage adds a delightful crunch, while the citrusy dressing cuts through the richness of cheese and meat in the tacos. Mexican coleslaw is a must-have for anyone looking to introduce a bit of zing to their taco bar lineup.
Tostones (Fried Plantains): A Unique Crunch
For a unique and unexpected crunchy side, tostones—or twice-fried plantains—are a fantastic choice. These golden, crispy rounds have a mild sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the bold and spicy flavors of walking tacos. Tostones can be seasoned with a sprinkle of salt or even a hint of chili powder for extra flair. While traditionally a Caribbean favorite, they seamlessly blend into the flavor palette of taco night, providing a fun and flavorful alternative to chips or fries.
A Feast for the Senses
Crunchy sides like tortilla chips, coleslaw, and tostones bring texture and versatility to your walking taco meal. They not only add variety to the plate but also keep guests coming back for more!
Innovative Sides to Elevate Your Walking Tacos
Cilantro Lime Rice: Zesty and Aromatic
Cilantro lime rice is a side dish that never fails to impress. This fragrant rice, infused with the tang of lime juice and the fresh bite of cilantro, serves as a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of walking tacos. The bright green flecks of cilantro add visual appeal, while the citrusy notes complement the spice in the tacos. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to any taco night. Whether served alongside or as a bed for your walking tacos, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Roasted Zucchini: Simple Yet Flavorful
Roasted zucchini, on the other hand, offers a lighter side option that’s both healthy and tasty. In addition, sliced zucchini rounds are seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of chili powder, then roasted to perfection in minutes. Furthermore, their natural sweetness and slightly caramelized edges pair wonderfully with the savory, spiced flavors of walking tacos. Additionally, zucchini’s mild flavor ensures it never overpowers the main dish. This side is also ideal for anyone seeking a quick, vegetable-based option that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Mango Salsa: A Sweet and Spicy Twist
Mango salsa is a game-changer when it comes to unique taco pairings. This colorful and sweet salsa combines diced mangoes, red onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice to create a vibrant mix of flavors. The sweetness of the mangoes balances the heat of the jalapeños and the tanginess of the lime, resulting in a side dish that surprises and delights. It pairs exceptionally well with the smoky and spicy elements of walking tacos, adding a tropical flair to your meal.
A Memorable Taco Night
These innovative sides—cilantro lime rice, roasted zucchini, and mango salsa—add a creative edge to your walking taco meal. They showcase a blend of flavors and textures that keep every bite interesting and ensure your guests leave impressed.
Beverages to Complement the Meal
Horchata: Creamy and Comforting
Horchata, a beloved traditional Mexican drink, is the perfect way to complement walking tacos. This creamy, slightly sweet beverage is made from rice, cinnamon, and sugar, often finished with a hint of vanilla. Served chilled, horchata provides a refreshing counterbalance to the zesty and spicy flavors of tacos. Its smooth texture and subtle spice make it a comforting drink that’s also a treat in its own right. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside the meal, horchata is a classic choice for an authentic taco night experience.
Agua Fresca: Light and Fruity
If you’re looking for a drink that’s as vibrant as your walking taco spread, agua fresca is the way to go. These lightly sweetened fruit-infused waters come in an array of flavors, such as watermelon, cucumber-lime, or pineapple. Their refreshing nature cleanses the palate, allowing you to fully enjoy the bold and varied flavors of your sides and tacos. Agua fresca is incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits and herbs to match the theme of your meal.
Elevate Your Meal with the Right Beverages
Pairing your walking tacos with refreshing drinks like horchata or agua fresca not only completes the meal but also enhances its overall enjoyment. These beverages provide the perfect balance to the bold, flavorful sides and main dish, leaving guests feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some vegetarian sides for walking tacos?
Vegetarian sides are a fantastic way to cater to a variety of dietary preferences while enhancing your walking taco meal. Options like grilled vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions—add smoky, caramelized flavors. Bean salads, like black bean and corn salad, offer a hearty, protein-packed alternative. Other vegetarian-friendly sides include guacamole, pico de gallo, cilantro lime rice, and Mexican coleslaw, all of which add vibrant flavors and textures without meat.
Can I prepare these sides in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare many walking taco sides ahead of time, saving you effort on the day of your gathering. For example, make pico de gallo, guacamole, and black bean and corn salad a few hours in advance, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook rice dishes like cilantro lime rice and refried beans the day before, and reheat them just before serving. By planning ahead, you create a stress-free taco night while keeping all the flavors intact.
How do I keep sides warm during a party?
Keeping sides warm is essential for maintaining the best taste and texture. Use slow cookers or warming trays for dishes like refried beans, Spanish rice, or roasted zucchini. For sides served in bowls or trays, cover them with aluminum foil to retain heat. If you’re hosting outdoors, consider insulated serving dishes or thermal food carriers to keep everything at an ideal temperature.
Are there gluten-free side options?
Yes, you can easily include gluten-free sides with traditional walking tacos. Serve corn-based dishes like tortilla chips and tostones, which are naturally safe choices. Pair them with guacamole, pico de gallo, or black bean and corn salad, all of which are naturally gluten-free. When preparing rice dishes, use seasonings and additives free of gluten to keep them safe. Double-check ingredient labels to confidently cater to gluten-free guests.
What desserts pair well with walking tacos?
After indulging in walking tacos and their sides, desserts like churros and flan make excellent choices. Churros bring a crisp, sugary bite that complements the savory meal, while flan’s creamy, caramel sweetness provides a smooth finish. For a simpler option, fresh fruit with a drizzle of honey or lime zest keeps things light and refreshing.
How can I make the meal more kid-friendly?
Walking tacos are already a hit with kids, but adding sides tailored to younger palates makes them even better. Offer plain tortilla chips with cheese sauce, simple guacamole without added spices, or a fruit salad for a naturally sweet side. You can also use less spicy versions of traditional dishes, ensuring they’re flavorful without overwhelming little taste buds.
Crafting the Perfect Walking Taco Experience
Walking tacos are a delicious, versatile dish, and the right sides can transform your meal into a memorable feast. From traditional options like Spanish rice and refried beans to creative pairings like mango salsa and roasted zucchini, there’s something to satisfy every craving. By selecting complementary beverages and planning ahead for dietary preferences, you’ll create a taco night that’s enjoyable for all. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive party, walking tacos with well-paired sides are sure to delight your guests and leave them coming back for more.