As a lover of taco nights, I'm always looking for creative ways to elevate my taco bar and make it even more enjoyable for friends and family.
The perfect taco bar is all about variety and catering to different tastes, so I've compiled a list of 15 amazing side dishes that will take your taco bar to the next level.
These sides not only complement the main event but also add bursts of flavor, texture, and color to your spread. So, let's dive into these delicious side dishes that will have your guests coming back for seconds!
Looking for a quick answer?
The best side dishes to serve in a taco bar are refried beans, salsa, tabasco, pineapple salsa, tostadas, nachos, Spanish rice, guacamole, pico de gallo, corn salad, cilantro lime rice, Mexican coleslaw, chiles rellenos, cheese dip, and Mexican street corn.
Now, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
1. Refried Beans
Refried beans are a classic staple at any taco bar. Creamy, warm, and full of flavor, they make the perfect base for building your tacos or as a delicious side dish on their own. You can also serve them as a dip for chips or spread them on your tostadas for an added layer of scrumptiousness.
2. Salsa
No taco bar is complete without salsa! The tangy and spicy flavors add a kick to your tacos and help to balance out the richness of the other ingredients. Offer a variety of salsas, such as classic tomato, tomatillo, or even fruit-based options like mango, to satisfy everyone's taste buds.
3. Tabasco
For those who love a fiery kick, having Tabasco on hand is a must. This hot sauce will add an extra layer of heat to your tacos, making them even more irresistible. It's a versatile condiment that can be used in marinades, dressings, and dips, as well.
4. Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa brings a tropical twist to your taco bar. The sweet and tangy flavors of the pineapple meld beautifully with the spicy jalapeños and zesty lime, creating a unique and refreshing side dish. It pairs especially well with grilled meats or fish.
5. Tostadas
Crispy tostadas are a fantastic addition to any taco bar. They offer a crunchy alternative to soft tortillas and can be piled high with your favorite taco toppings. You can even serve them alongside your tacos for a fun, DIY tostada experience for your guests.
6. Nachos
Nachos are always a crowd-pleaser, and they fit right in at a taco bar. Pile them high with cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings, then bake until melty and golden. They're perfect for dipping into salsas, guacamole, and sour cream, and they offer a satisfying crunch.
7. Spanish Rice
Spanish rice, with its warm spices and vibrant color, is a fantastic side dish for your taco bar. It's a delicious accompaniment to your tacos and provides a hearty and flavorful base for any vegetarian guests. Plus, it's a great way to stretch your taco fillings further.
8. Guacamole
Guacamole is an essential side dish for any taco bar. The creamy, rich avocado dip adds a luxurious touch to your tacos and is perfect for dipping chips or spreading on tostadas. Make a big batch, as this popular side is sure to disappear quickly!
9. Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a fresh, zesty salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. Its bright flavors bring a burst of freshness to your taco bar and help to cut through the richness of the other ingredients. It's perfect for spooning over your tacos or scooping up with chips.
10. Corn Salad
A colorful and flavorful corn salad adds a lovely touch to your taco bar. The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro creates a delightful side dish that pairs well with any taco filling. It's a refreshing and healthy addition to your spread.
11. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is a light and flavorful side dish that's a perfect accompaniment to your taco bar. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro add a brightness to the rice that pairs beautifully with the flavors of your tacos. It's a simple and tasty way to add a little extra flair to your spread.
12. Mexican Coleslaw
Mexican coleslaw, with its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, is a refreshing addition to your taco bar. It's a great way to add some crunch to your tacos or to eat as a light side dish. The vibrant colors of the slaw also add a beautiful pop of color to your table.
13. Chiles Rellenos
Chiles Rellenos are stuffed, battered, and fried chilies that make an impressive side dish for your taco bar. They're a bit more labor-intensive than some other options, but their unique flavor and presentation are well worth the effort. They're a decadent and delicious addition to your spread.
14. Cheese Dip
A creamy, cheesy Queso dip is a must-have for any taco bar. It's perfect for dipping chips, drizzling over your tacos, or just eating by the spoonful. This warm and comforting side dish is sure to be a hit with all of your guests.
15. Mexican Street Corn
Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a flavorful and fun side dish for your taco bar. The corn is grilled until charred and smoky, then slathered in a creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese and chili powder. It's a delicious and exciting way to serve corn at your taco bar.
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Ingredients
- 1 taco bar
Instructions
- Make the side dishes from the list above. You can have a taco bar with refried beans, salsa, tabasco, pineapple salsa, tostadas, nachos, Spanish rice, guacamole, pico de gallo, corn salad, cilantro lime rice, Mexican coleslaw, chiles rellenos, cheese dip, and Mexican street corn.
- Invite guests and enjoy a wonderful party 🙂