20 Must-Try Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos are a crowd-pleasing meal that combines the flavors of juicy shrimp, lime, cilantro, and creamy sauces wrapped up in warm tortillas. But what really takes this dish to the next level are all the delicious sides you can pair with it!

In this article, I’ll share my 20 favorite side dish ideas to serve alongside shrimp tacos for a flavorful fiesta. From dips and salsas, to rice, beans, salads, and more – these sides will perfectly complement those tasty shrimp tacos.

Quick Store-Bought Sides for Shrimp Tacos

If you’re short on time, you can pick up a few ready-made items at the grocery store to instantly have great sides to accompany shrimp tacos:

• Chips and salsa – An iconic pairing! Grab a jar of fresh pico de gallo or salsa verde and some tortilla chips for dipping,

• Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip is always a hit. Purchase it premade or make your own guacamole.

• Charro beans – These seasoned pinto beans in broth make a hearty side. Look for them canned in the Mexican food aisle.

• Pineapple chunks – The sweet tanginess pairs perfectly with shrimp Toss some chili lime seasoning on for extra flavor

• Coleslaw mix – Grab a bagged mix and toss with a lime vinaigrette dressing for a tasty chilled side.

Quick Homemade Sides for Shrimp Tacos (15 Min or Less)

Whip up these super fast homemade sides to accompany your shrimp tacos:

• Pico de gallo – Dice up tomatoes, onion, cilantro and jalapeño and toss with lime juice for a fresh salsa.

• Corn salsa – Mix corn, black beans, tomatoes, onion and cilantro for a chunky salsa.

• Elote – Brush grilled corn with a blend of mayo, Mexican cheese, and chili powder for an easy crowd fave.

• Mango salsa – Dice mango and mix with onion, tomato, cilantro, and lime juice for sweet fruity salsa.

• Mexican street corn salad – Toss grilled corn with cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime mayo dressing for a salad version of elote.

Simple Sides for Shrimp Tacos (25 Min or Less)

Make these tasty sides in 25 minutes or less to pair with your tacos:

• Citrus jicama slaw – Shred jicama and carrots and toss with citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing slaw.

• Watermelon feta salad – Dice watermelon, feta, and mint, and drizzle with lime vinaigrette for a sweet salad.

• Mexican chopped salad – Toss lettuce, corn, black beans, avocado, pepitas, and queso fresco with lime vinaigrette.

• Cilantro lime rice – Cook up rice with chicken broth and stir in cilantro and lime juice for a flavor packed side.

• Charro beans – Simmer pinto beans with bacon, tomatoes, onion and seasonings for a savory bean side dish.

Elevated Sides for Shrimp Tacos (30+ Minutes)

Make your tacos extra special with these deliciously elegant sides:

• Shrimp ceviche – “Cook” shrimp in lime juice and mix with tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro to serve chilled.

• Empanadas – Fill pastries with seasoned ground beef or cheese and bake until golden.

• Mexican fruit salad – Toss together watermelon, jicama, mango, lime juice and chili powder for a vibrant salad.

• Shrimp and corn tostadas – Top crisp tostada shells with refried beans, shrimp, corn, avocado, lettuce, cheese and salsa.

• Tres leches cake – Make a decadent three milk soaked sponge cake for dessert.

5 Refreshing Drinks to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

Wash down those spicy, garlicky shrimp tacos with some tasty beverages:

• Margaritas – Mix up a pitcher with tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur. Salt the rim for a perfectly paired cocktail.

• Mexican beer – Ice cold Mexican lagers like Corona, Modelo or Pacifico taste amazing with shrimp. Add lime.

• Horchata – This sweet rice milk drink is creamy and refreshing. Enjoy it on its own or spiked.

• Agua fresca – Blend up watermelon, strawberries or other fruit with lime, sugar and water for a fruity non-alcoholic option.

• Jamaica – Brew up this tart hibiscus flower tea and serve over ice for a vibrant pink drink.

With all these fantastic side dish ideas, your shrimp taco dinner will be an unforgettable fiesta! Try out different combinations and see which sides become your favorites. Just remember – friends, family and fabulous sides are what make taco nights truly special. ¡Buen provecho!