The best sides to go with fish tacos! Make your meal more interesting with simple, tasty sides that go well with your favorite fish taco recipe.
These easy-to-make side dishes will take the taste of your favorite fish taco to a whole new level. Your family will love them! They will improve the texture and flavor of your meal, making you happy and wanting more. [feast_advanced_jump_to].
Fish tacos are a crowd-pleasing meal that combines the fresh flavors of crispy fish tangy slaw, and warm tortillas. But the tacos alone don’t make a complete dinner. You need some tasty sides to round out the meal.
The right sides will add color, taste, and texture contrast to highlight the star of the show – the fish tacos. They also help absorb any extra juices and salsa so every bite is packed with flavor.
Here are 12 sensational sides to serve alongside your favorite fish tacos
1. Spanish Rice
Spanish rice is a classic complement to any Mexican-style meal. It’s quick and easy to make by sautéing rice with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and oregano.
The tangy tomatoes and aromatics perfectly balance the flavors in the fish tacos. Spanish rice also gives your dinner more substance.
2. Refried Beans
Warm and creamy refried beans pair wonderfully with fish tacos. They add protein to make the meal more filling and substantial.
Refried beans also provide a richness that contrasts with the light slaw and fish. Purchase canned to save time or make your own from scratch.
3. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges
For a veggie-focused side, roast up some sweet potato wedges. The natural sweetness balances the acidity from the tacos.
Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and cayenne. Roast at 400°F until crispy on the outside and tender inside.
4. Chipotle Lime Coleslaw
Crunchy coleslaw with a smoky, spicy twist makes the ultimate side for fish tacos. The cool, creamy slaw provides relief from the hot salsa in each bite.
Whisk mayo, lime juice, chipotle chili, cilantro, and seasoning to dress shredded cabbage and carrots. Let the slaw chill for the flavors to meld.
5. Loaded Nachos
For a fun, sharable side, whip up a platter of loaded nachos. Crispy tortilla chips topped with beans, cheese, salsa, guac and sour cream will be a big hit.
Allow everyone to customize their nachos with their favorite toppings. The nachos also help soak up any taco drippings.
6. Mexican Street Corn
Grilled corn on the cob brushed with a creamy, spicy sauce makes a fantastic summery side for fish tacos.
The corn’s natural sweetness complements the fish while the chili mayo adds a decadent creaminess.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice
For a quick and easy veggie side, make cilantro lime rice. Simply prepare white rice then stir in olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, garlic and salt.
The bright, citrusy rice provides the perfect base for your tacos and won’t compete with the flavorful fish.
8. Black Beans
Warm, just-seasoned black beans add protein, fiber and texture contrast to balance out the tacos. Their earthy flavor works well with the lighter fish.
Sauté minced onion and garlic in oil, then add black beans and season with cumin, oregano, salsa and lime juice.
9. Guacamole
Cool, creamy guacamole is a staple side for tacos. The richness pairs well with the crunchy slaw and corn tortillas.
Mash ripe avocados with onion, tomatoes, cilantro, lime and salt. Serve guacamole with tortilla chips for scooping.
10. Chipotle Lime Kale Salad
For a lighter, healthier accompaniment, make a kale salad with smoky chipotle and tangy lime. Massage the kale with the dressing to soften it.
Top with chopped veggies, avocado, pumpkin seeds and queso fresco for a nutrient-packed side salad.
11. Homemade Tortilla Chips
Warm, freshly fried tortilla chips served alongside fish tacos are hard to resist. Slice corn tortillas into wedges and fry in hot oil until super crispy.
Sprinkle the chips with salt right away. They’re great for scooping up any taco drippings.
12. Fire-Roasted Salsa
A make-your-own salsa bar lets everyone customize their meal. Offer toasted diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, lime juice and seasoning.
The fresh salsa adds lots of flavor and color to balance the tacos perfectly. Provide tortilla chips for scooping up the leftover salsa.
How to Pick the Best Sides for Fish Tacos
Here are some tips for selecting yummy sides to complement your fish tacos:
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Add creaminess – Sides like guacamole, beans, rice or slaw offer a creamy contrast to the tacos.
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Include crunch – Chips, kale salad or slaw provide crispy crunch.
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Feature fresh produce – Bright veggies like corn, salsa and salad make the meal more colorful.
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Balance flavors – Mild beans, rice, or sweet potato wedges prevent the tacos from tasting too bold.
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Mix textures – Incorporate soft, crunchy and creamy textures for maximum appeal.
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Make it filling – Heartier sides like rice, nachos, or beans ensure you feel satisfied.
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Get creative with spices – Use fun flavors like chipotle and lime to complement the tacos.
Homemade vs Store-Bought Sides
When planning sides for fish tacos, you can save time by picking up a few ready-made items from the grocery store. But homemade sides are worth the effort for the best flavor.
Easy Store-Bought Sides
- Bottled salsa or guacamole
- Shredded cheese
- Tortilla chips
- Premade slaw mix
- Canned refried beans
- Frozen spinach
Fresh Homemade Sides
- Spanish rice
- Fire-roasted salsa
- Corn on the cob
- Nachos
- Coleslaw
- Refried beans
- Guacamole
Mix and match store-bought and homemade sides to pull together dinner with ease. Even just one homemade side kicks the meal up a notch.
Planning a Complete Fish Taco Dinner
To make a satisfying fish taco dinner, follow these tips:
- Choose 2-3 sides to offer variety.
- Include a green salad for added nutrition.
- Make a fruity dessert like churros or tres leches cake.
- Offer margaritas, sangria or Mexican sodas to drink.
- Set up a taco topping bar so guests can build their own.
- Make it buffet-style for a casual, fun vibe.
- Add some ambient Mexican music.
- Decorate with piñatas, flowers, or lanterns for theme.
Amp up your next fiesta by surrounding fresh fish tacos with an array of hot, cold, crunchy and creamy accompaniments. With a spread of sensational sides, your dinner will have everyone cheering “Ole!”
I am Sarah Mock. Welcome!
Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 15 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.
Fish Tacos Side Dishes
Due to their delicious mix of tender fish, tangy flavors, and soft tortillas, fish tacos have earned their reputation as a beloved food. The perfectly seasoned and cooked fish is the star of the show, but for a well-rounded meal, you should pair it with side dishes that go well with it. Whether you’re throwing a fun fiesta or just want to make your weeknight dinner more interesting, picking the right sides can make the whole meal better.
Mexican corn dip tastes just like Mexican street corn. It’s a family favorite that goes away way too quickly. This easy side dish features Mexicorn, roasted green chilies as well as shredded cheese.
Savor the addictive fiery heat in every bite. The sweet heat of this side dish will add a twist to your snacking.
Crisp, hand-torn romaine lettuce is mixed with a homemade Caesar salad dressing that is creamy and classic. Crumbly croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, and crunchy capers are then added to make the salad look even better.
Sit and let it marinate for a couple of minutes. The contrasting textures and tasty flavors of this side dish is always a hit! A healthy choice too.
The refreshing flavors and creamy texture of the avocado will create a delightful taste in your pallet. Perfect for dipping or topping. Your choice.
This beautiful and fragrant side dish will bring out the flavors in your main dish and keep your taste buds in check with each bite.
The upgraded version of your classic coleslaw. The mix of tastes, the sour kick from the spices, and the bright colors will make you hungry and take your hunger to the next level.
If you want to make roasted chili corn salsa, this is the recipe for you. It’s a sweet corn salsa with mild to medium heat, like these at restaurants. Fiery poblano peppers, frozen sweet corn, red onion, cilantro, and fresh lemon and lime juice are what I use to make my own chipotle corn salsa. You can eat the corn salsa with tortilla chips, a burrito bowl, or any other Mexican dish you like.
With just a touch of seasoning and fresh vegetables cooked to perfection, this dish will make any meal more interesting.
This healthy side dish pops of green on your plate and tastes a little garlicky. It’s really tasty and hard to resist. No need to feel guilty on your second plate.
A perfect companion to your fish taco. The tangy and flavorful taste will make your meal superb. The taste will be even better if you put it in the fridge while you work on another dish.
You can’t say no to the natural sweetness of the sweet potato or its crispy edges. They will make your taste buds dance with joy. Crunchy goodness in every bite.
The sweet and buttery corn smell tastes great with your meal, and the soft, moist texture is something you will definitely enjoy.
A cool side dish with a zesty and spicy dressing that will make your taste buds dance and make you want more of that kick.
Dive into the creaminess of perfectly mashed avocado, sprinkled with spices and herbs. Indulge in the Mexican flavorful delight in every bite.
If you want to add a burst of juicy, tropical sweetness to your fish tacos, try this smoked pineapple. The smoky flavor goes well with every bite.
A colorful side dish that is rich in protein. Have this salad while enjoying both taste and nutrition. No worries!.
Jicama and carrots that have been thinly sliced and perfectly seasoned with a tangy and zesty dressing that will make your meal taste better and be more refreshing.
You will love this side dish if you like onions! It’s full of flavor and has a kick of zestiness and a little spice. It goes great with your fish taco.
This corn casserole has all your favorite flavors of Mexican street corn. Scoop it up with chips and serve it warm, fresh out of the oven. You will love this street corn casserole recipe because it has corn, chipotle pepper, Cotija cheese, and just a touch of lime and hot sauce.
This pie has two crusts and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg that will make you want another piece.
The sourness, sweetness, and twist of flavors in this side dish make it a great addition to any meal and will wake up your taste buds. A healthy treat for you too.
The sweet and juicy watermelon and the wonderful flavors from the herbs and spices make for a tasty treat that will please your taste buds.
A crunchy side dish with a satisfyingly light sweetness and a crispy texture. It’s lightly salted and fried until golden brown. One of the best to serve with grilled fish tacos!.
This salty, rich side dish is made from mashed Pinto beans and seasonings. It goes well with any meal.
A combination of shredded cabbage and carrots together with a tangy dressing. You will never go wrong with this quick and easy, refreshing and crunchy side dish. It can always make you want more.
Awaken your taste buds with a burst of flavors in every bite of this refreshing mix of sweet and sour. Chef tip: dont skip the fresh cilantro!.
This infused rich-in-flavor rice, perfectly simmer in well-seasoned broth is always a great choice as an accompaniment. You will not believe that it has only a few ingredients.
The crunchy texture of the cabbage and carrots, along with the bright flavors in this dish, will definitely make your meal more enjoyable. Perfect accompaniment for almost every dish.
Tangy, sweet and a little spicy. This irresistible accompaniment will wake your palate and level up your meal. Perfect if you need a fresh summer flavor.
A delicious and healthier accompaniment. The crispy texture and the delightful sweetness make it a perfect side dish for your meal. No guilty feeling too!.
Sour, sweet, salty and savory. This healthy dish will bring you excitement in every bite. Plus, a healthy choice too.
The smoky and sweet taste of this accompaniment will make you crave for more without feeling guilty. You will not believe that a plain asparagus can taste this good.
Upgrade your taste buds with this flavorful, fragrant and zesty dressing. Best if rested for a couple of minutes before serving to enhance the taste even more.
Burst with smoky and sweet-savory goodness that will elevate your dining game. The little spicy kick will tickle your palate.
Simple yet delicious accompaniment. The naturally sweet and ripe tomatoes, red onions, and herbs give this dish a fresh taste, and it only takes a few minutes to make.
Full of flavor and spice. This dish will bring some spice to any boring meal and will make you want for more. The combination of colors and aroma adds to it’s addicting taste.
This nutritious dish is grilled to perfection. With the smoky vegetables, herbs, spices, and tangy dressing, this dish is sure to please your taste buds.
A simple and refreshing recipe that could be your next favorite. This tasty dish has just the right amount of sour and spicy to take your meal to a whole new level.
With a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, the grilled zucchini that has been seasoned with salt and black pepper will make you drool. Slice the zucchini into strips to make it more appealing.
Crispy fries with flavorful Mexican toppings. This dish will has an irresistible bold taste that will surely please your palate. It’s aroma is to die for too.
The unique flavor from roasting the poblano peppers gives your meal a little kick and a smoky goodness. Perfect grilling really enhances the taste.
And it’s so easy to make! This dish tastes naturally sweet, rich, and creamy, and even kids will love it! It might even become the next big thing in the kitchen!
Golden and crispy. You can almost smell the herbs and garlic in the soft zucchini shreds, and the vegetable’s natural mild sweetness will make your mouth water.
Most of the time, mild white fish that is good for grilling or frying is used in fish tacos. These types of fish are usually seasoned with different herbs and spices, then grilled, baked, or deep-fried. They are then served in a tortilla with toppings like salsa, avocado, lime, shredded cabbage, and different sauces. Mahi-Mahi: This fish, which is also called dorado or dolphin fish but is not related to the mammal dolphin, is often used in fish tacos because it has a firm texture and a mild flavor. Tilapia: This fish is easy to find and doesn’t cost much. It has a neutral flavor that soaks up the flavors of the sauce or seasoning. Cod: Cod is often used in fish tacos, especially in places where British or Nordic culture is strong. It has a delicate flavor and flakes nicely when cooked. Halibut: Halibut is a bit more expensive, but its flaky texture and slightly sweet flavor make it a great choice for fish tacos. Snapper: You can also use red snapper or other types of snapper. They have a slightly sweeter taste than some other white fish.
Easy Fish Tacos | Healthy 30 Minute Recipe!
What is a good side dish for a fish taco?
If you love onions this side dish is perfect for you! Burst with flavors with a kick of zestiness and a little bit of spice, this is perfect for your fish taco. 20. Mexican Street Corn Casserole (Elote) This corn casserole has all your favorite flavors of Mexican street corn. Scoop it up with chips and serve it warm, fresh out of the oven.
Is taco salad healthy to eat?
Taco is a Mexican dish consisting of rolled tortilla filled with various mixtures like seasoned minced chicken or beans. Taco salad is very healthy its high in protein and fiber as it is topped with cheese, nuts, sprouts or legumes and dressed with oil. It form a very light complete meal.
Can fish tacos be paired with different sides?
Fish tacos can be flexibly paired with different sides to change the overall tone and feel of the meal. In most cases, fish tacos will be the main dish, but in some instances you can even choose to offer fish tacos as an appetizer or side alongside a different meal.
What to eat with fish tacos?
It’s refreshing, no-cook and ready in all of five minutes—the ideal side for grilled fish tacos, if you ask us. Feel free to swap the feta for another cheese, like crumbled queso fresco or cotija. 2. Avocado Rice It’s creamy and rich but somehow still light and fresh. That’s the magic of avocados for you. (It’s also only seven ingredients, NBD.) 3.