Exploring Mexican cuisine opens up a world of flavorful and vibrant side dishes perfect for any meal. From simple rice and beans to more elaborate options, these dishes add excitement and depth to your main courses.
What are some delightful Mexican sides that can transform your dinner table? This collection of 19 side dishes brings the best of Mexican flavors right to your home, ensuring your meals are always a hit.
1) Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, also known as Mexican Street Corn, is a popular Mexican side dish. It’s made using fresh corn on the cob that is grilled until tender and slightly charred.
Once the corn is grilled, you spread a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice over it. This creamy blend adds tangy flavor.
Next, sprinkle the corn with crumbled Cotija cheese. Cotija is a salty cheese that pairs well with the sweet corn.
After adding the cheese, dust the corn with chili powder for a bit of heat. Finally, garnish with chopped cilantro to give it a fresh touch.
Elote is enjoyed straight off the cob, making it a fun and tasty side dish. It’s a great addition to any Mexican meal and brings vibrant flavor to your table.
2) Guacamole
Guacamole is a classic Mexican side dish made from mashed avocados. It’s creamy and full of flavor. You can mix in ingredients like lime juice, salt, and cilantro to add some zest.
To make it more interesting, add diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños. These give it a nice crunch and some heat.
Guacamole pairs well with many dishes. Serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled meats.
It’s also great as a topping. Spread it on toast or use it to garnish soups and salads.
Fresh ingredients are key. The avocados should be ripe, the lime juice should be fresh, and the herbs should be fragrant. This ensures the best taste.
Guacamole is easy to make. Just mash the avocados and mix in your ingredients. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Make sure to serve guacamole fresh. It can brown quickly, so prepare it close to serving time. If you need to keep it, cover it tightly and refrigerate.
3) Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a classic Mexican salsa made from fresh ingredients. It features diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos. You can add lime juice and a pinch of salt to enhance its flavors.
Making Pico de Gallo is simple. First, dice the tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos into small pieces. Then, chop the cilantro finely. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl, and add lime juice and salt to taste.
Pico de Gallo is very versatile. It can be used as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for tacos and burritos, or a side dish for grilled meats. It’s fresh, vibrant, and adds a zesty kick to many dishes.
You’ll appreciate how healthy Pico de Gallo is. It’s low in calories, carbs, and fat. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins from the fresh vegetables. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to your diet in a tasty way.
Prepare it just a few hours before serving to let the flavors blend together. Store any leftovers in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
4) Refried Beans
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Made from cooked and mashed pinto or black beans, they are typically flavored with onions, garlic, and spices.
You can serve refried beans as a side dish or use them as a filling for tacos and burritos. They are especially delicious when paired with dishes like steak fajitas or chicken burrito bowls.
To prepare refried beans, heat them in a saucepan with a bit of water. Stir until they reach your desired consistency. You can garnish them with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Adding a few drops of lime juice or some diced jalapeños can enhance their flavor. Refried beans are versatile and can complement almost any Mexican meal.
5) Mexican Rice
Mexican rice is a staple in many households. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of Mexican foods.
You start by sautéing rice in oil until it’s golden brown. This gives the rice a richer flavor.
Next, you add tomatoes, onions, and garlic. These ingredients provide a savory base for the rice.
When you cook the rice in chicken broth, the flavors meld together beautifully. The broth gives it a deeper taste than just using water.
Paprika and cumin are often added for an extra kick. These spices make the rice more aromatic and vibrant.
If you like your food spicy, you can add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Mexican rice is versatile. It goes great with tacos, chicken enchiladas, or grilled shrimp.
You can also serve it with beans for a simple yet satisfying meal. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh twist.
Making Mexican rice from scratch is easy. Plus, it adds an authentic touch to your meals. Try it out next time you’re cooking.
6) Queso Fundido
Queso Fundido is a delicious Mexican side dish that features melted cheese and flavorful ingredients like chorizo, onions, and peppers. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties and makes a perfect appetizer.
First, you’ll need a cast iron or oven-safe skillet. Heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until fully browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Drain any excess fat.
Next, add diced onions and cook until soft. Toss in some minced garlic and roasted chiles and cook for another couple of minutes. These ingredients will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your Queso Fundido.
Layer half of the shredded cheese at the bottom of your skillet. Spread the chorizo mixture over the cheese. Then add the remaining cheese on top. Place the skillet in a preheated oven and bake until the cheese is bubbling and fully melted.
Serve your Queso Fundido with warm tortillas or tortilla chips. This gooey, cheesy dish is a must-try.
7) Sopa de Fideo
Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican noodle soup that’s both simple and comforting. It’s made with thin noodles, often called fideo, that are toasted in oil. This gives the noodles a slightly nutty flavor.
After toasting, you cook the noodles in a tomato-based broth. The broth usually includes pureed tomatoes, onions, and garlic. You can use chicken or vegetable broth.
Adding vegetables like carrots or zucchini can make the soup more filling. Some recipes might also include a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro for added freshness.
Sopa de Fideo is often enjoyed as a starter or a light meal. It’s perfect for those cooler days when you want something warm and soothing.
8) Chiles Rellenos
Chiles Rellenos are stuffed peppers that are very popular in Mexican cuisine.
You usually see them made with large green chili peppers, often poblanos. These peppers are first roasted and then stuffed with cheese or meat. After stuffing, they are dipped in a batter and fried until golden and crispy.
A key part of making Chiles Rellenos is the batter. The batter is made by whipping egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then adding the yolks. This makes it light and fluffy. The peppers are coated in flour before being dipped into the batter.
Some recipes add epazote leaves inside each pepper for extra flavor. You can use different fillings like shredded beef, pork, or even vegetables.
Serve Chiles Rellenos with salsa roja or other Mexican sauces to enhance their flavor. You can also pair them with rice, beans, or fresh guacamole for a complete meal.
9) Pozole
Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made from hominy corn and meat, usually pork or chicken. The rich broth is flavored with garlic, chili peppers, and many spices. This hearty dish is perfect for any meal and can be served on special occasions.
You might want to serve pozole with a range of garnishes and side dishes. Popular choices include shredded lettuce, radishes, onions, lime wedges, and avocado slices. These additions add freshness and extra flavors to your pozole.
Another great idea is to offer tostadas on the side. These crunchy tortillas are a perfect contrast to the stew’s heartiness. You can also pair pozole with Mexican cornbread or baked jalapeno poppers for a delicious combination.
Remember to serve pozole hot to really enjoy its deeply flavored broth. Prepare it in advance and let your guests add their preferred toppings themselves. This way, everyone gets to customize their own bowl.
10) Tostones
Tostones are a delicious snack made from green plantains. You first peel and slice the plantains, then fry them until they are golden. After that, you flatten the slices and fry them again. This double-frying method gives tostones their signature crispiness.
Tostones are often served with a variety of dips and sauces. Guacamole and cilantro lime sauce are popular choices. They also pair well with cheese dip and mango chutney.
For a more savory option, serve your tostones with refried beans or picadillo. These hearty sides add a satisfying contrast to the crispy plantains.
If you’re looking for something light, fresh spring rolls or pineapple salsa make great accompaniments. These dishes add a refreshing balance to the fried plantains.
Mexican street corn salad is another tasty side. It combines the flavors of traditional street corn with easy-to-eat corn kernels, making it a perfect match for tostones.
11) Tamal de Elote
Tamal de Elote is a sweet corn tamale from Mexico. Made from fresh corn, it’s softer and sweeter than regular tamales. You typically steam the mixture in corn husks, which preserves the moist texture.
The primary ingredients are fresh corn kernels, butter, sugar, and sometimes milk. These tamales are often enjoyed with a bit of cream or cheese on top.
To prepare, blend the corn kernels into a chunky paste, then mix with butter and sugar. Spread the mixture onto corn husks and fold them closed before steaming.
Tamal de Elote makes a great side dish for tamales because it adds a contrasting sweet flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also quite simple to make.
12) Rajas con Crema
Rajas con Crema is a popular Mexican side dish made from roasted poblano peppers, cream, and onions. This creamy and mildly spicy dish pairs well with many main courses.
To make Rajas con Crema, you first roast and peel the poblano peppers. Then, cut them into strips. Cook the onions in a skillet with butter or oil until they are soft and translucent.
Add the garlic and cook it briefly. Then, mix in the roasted poblano strips. The creamy base usually includes Mexican crema, but you can use sour cream if needed.
Some recipes add corn or cheese for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the cream thickens and the flavors meld together.
Serve Rajas con Crema warm, often alongside rice or grilled meats. This dish is a comforting addition to any meal, adding a rich and savory taste.
13) Molletes
Molletes are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican side dish. They start with bolillo rolls, a type of Mexican bread. You cut these rolls in half and toast them.
After toasting, you spread a layer of warm refried beans on each half. Next, sprinkle shredded cheese on the beans. Common choices are queso fresco or Monterey Jack.
Place the Molletes back into the oven until the cheese melts. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
For extra flavor, add toppings like pico de gallo, pickled jalapeños, or hot salsa. These toppings give the Molletes an extra kick and make them even more enjoyable.
Molletes are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Their simple yet tasty ingredients make them a favorite in Mexican cuisine.
14) Nopales Salad
Nopales salad is a popular Mexican side dish made from cactus pads. These pads, known as nopales, are often cooked to rid them of their slimy texture.
To start, you need to clean and slice the nopales. Boil them in salted water for about 10-20 minutes until tender. Once done, rinse them to remove any remaining slime.
Next, prepare the vegetables. Chop tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. These add color and flavor to your salad.
For the dressing, mix olive oil, lime juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Shake it well until combined.
Combine the nopales and chopped vegetables in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly.
You can chill the salad for a bit before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
Nopales salad is a nutritious and flavorful side dish, perfect for any Mexican meal.
15) Esquites
Esquites, also known as Mexican Street Corn Salad, is a popular and flavorful side dish. It’s made with fresh corn kernels that are cooked until tender. The corn can be grilled, broiled, or sautéed, giving it a bit of char for extra flavor.
To make esquites, you start by cooking the corn. You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn. Fresh corn is often preferred for its sweetness, but canned or frozen can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Once your corn is cooked, you mix it with a variety of ingredients. Common additions include mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and chili powder. You can also add jalapeños or cayenne for some heat.
Esquites are typically served warm, either on their own or in small cups. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or as a side for any Mexican meal. The combination of sweet corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, and spicy chili creates a delicious and satisfying bite each time.
16) Enfrijoladas
Enfrijoladas are a classic Mexican dish made by dipping tortillas in a rich bean sauce.
To start, you blend cooked beans with chipotle peppers, garlic, and onions. You need to add vegetable broth to get a smooth, soupy texture. Season with salt and cumin to taste.
Next, you heat oil in a skillet and cook the bean sauce for a few minutes. This helps bring out the flavors. Keep the sauce warm on the stove.
Warm your tortillas in the oven or microwave. Then, dip each tortilla in the bean sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Fold the tortillas and place them on a plate.
You can fill your enfrijoladas with queso fresco and diced onions. For extra flavor, you might want to sauté the onions before adding them.
Serve the enfrijoladas hot, garnished with more queso fresco, onions, or even a dollop of sour cream. They make a tasty and hearty side dish that’s perfect for any Mexican meal.
17) Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant and fresh condiment originally from Argentina and Uruguay. It’s packed with herbs like parsley and cilantro, giving it a bright green color.
You often find it paired with grilled meats, but its zesty flavor complements many Mexican dishes. It works especially well with chicken and pork.
The main ingredients include garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Some variations might add cilantro, oregano, or lemon juice for extra flavor.
To make the sauce, finely chop the herbs and garlic, then mix with the oil, vinegar, and seasonings. It’s simple, yet it adds a big burst of flavor to any dish.
People love chimichurri for its freshness and versatility. You can serve it as a topping for tacos, a marinade for meats, or even a dipping sauce for vegetables.
18) Salsa Verde
Salsa Verde is a bright and zesty sauce made from green tomatillos, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and green chilies. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine.
You can use Salsa Verde in many dishes. It pairs well with chicken, pork, and fish. It also tastes great drizzled over tacos, enchiladas, or tostadas.
To make Salsa Verde, start by boiling tomatillos until they soften. Then blend them with fresh cilantro, lime juice, green chilies, and salt.
You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chilies. If you like it spicy, use jalapeños or serranos. For a milder version, stick with poblano peppers.
Salsa Verde also works well as a dip. Just serve it with tortilla chips for a tasty snack. You can also mix it into soups or stews for added flavor.
This versatile sauce adds a burst of freshness to any dish you make. Its vibrant green color also makes your meals look more appetizing.
19) Churros
Churros are a beloved Mexican treat. These deep-fried dough pastries have a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside. Covered in a mix of cinnamon and sugar, they offer a delightful sweetness in every bite.
Traditionally, churros are served warm. You can dip them in various sauces. Chocolate dipping sauce is a popular choice. It adds a rich, velvety taste.
Dulce de leche is another favorite. This caramel-like sauce has a creamy texture that pairs well with churros. Besides sauces, churros can be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
Making churros involves simple ingredients. You need flour, water, butter, and salt. The dough is piped into hot oil and fried until golden brown. Once fried, roll them in cinnamon sugar.
Churros are perfect for any occasion. You can serve them at parties, family gatherings, or as a special dessert. They are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a delicious dip, churros are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The Culture Behind Mexican Side Dishes
Mexican side dishes are more than just accompaniments to the main meal. They reflect the rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary practices of Mexico.
Tradition and Variety
Mexican cuisine is known for its variety. From refried beans and rice to nopales and sopa de fideo, there is something for every palate. These dishes often reflect regional differences, with distinct flavors and ingredients unique to each area.
Ingredients and Influences
Common ingredients include corn, beans, chiles, and tomatoes. These have been staples since ancient times. Spanish, indigenous, and even African influences can be seen in various dishes, mirroring the history of Mexico itself.
Celebrations and Daily Life
During celebrations, side dishes like salsas, slaws, and grilled corn play a big part. They bring vibrant colors and flavors to the table, enhancing the experience. Even in everyday meals, side dishes like cilantro-lime rice and black beans help create balanced and satisfying meals.
Cooking Techniques
Traditional cooking techniques, such as grilling, boiling, and frying, are often used. Many dishes are made from scratch, illustrating the time and care put into Mexican cooking. For example, sopa de fideo uses thin pasta and a rich tomato broth, showing the skill involved in creating depth of flavor.
Understanding these aspects gives a deeper appreciation for Mexican side dishes. They are a window into the country’s history, geography, and culture.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Mexican side dishes are rich in flavor and nutrition. They often include corn, beans, chilies, and an array of herbs and spices.
Corn
Corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It is used in dishes like elote (grilled corn), cornbread, and even soups. Corn provides vitamins like B vitamins and minerals such as magnesium.
Corn is also a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber helps in digestion and keeps you full for longer. It’s naturally gluten-free.
Whether grilled, steamed, or used in tortillas, corn adds a sweet, earthy flavor. Corn’s versatility makes it an essential ingredient in many dishes.
Beans
Beans, especially black beans and pinto beans, are common in Mexican side dishes. They offer a high plant-based protein content.
Beans are rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium. They help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. They also have a low glycemic index, which can help in managing blood sugar.
Their texture is creamy when cooked, making them great for soups, salads, and dips. For vegans and vegetarians, beans are an excellent meat substitute.
Chilies
Chilies bring heat and depth to Mexican dishes. Varieties range from mild poblanos to spicy jalapeños and fiery habaneros.
Chilies are high in vitamins A and C. These vitamins help boost your immune system. Capsaicin, found in chilies, can also relieve pain and increase metabolism.
Chilies come fresh, dried, or powdered. They are used in salsas, sauces, and marinades. They add a kick to any dish without overpowering other flavors.
Herbs and Spices
Cilantro, oregano, and cumin are some of the key herbs and spices. Cilantro is often used fresh to add a vibrant taste.
Oregano and cumin are used dried and ground. They add warmth and earthiness. These herbs and spices enhance the dish without masking other flavors.
Herbs like cilantro are rich in antioxidants. Cumin is known for aiding digestion. Oregano has antibacterial properties. Including these in your dishes can offer health benefits along with taste.
Using herbs and spices is a great way to add layers of flavor to your dishes. They are integral to the complexity and authenticity of Mexican cuisine.
