What To Serve With Carnitas: 16 BEST Side Dishes

Carnitas is a delicious Mexican dish made with slow-cooked pork. It's flavorful and perfect for a festive meal or a casual dinner with family and friends.

But what do you serve with carnitas to make the meal complete?

Here are 16 amazing side dishes that go great with carnitas, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with cauliflower carnitas are cilantro lime rice, refried beans, grilled corn, pico de gallo, guacamole, tabasco, salsa verde, coleslaw, pickled red onions, cheddar jalapeño cornbread, roasted vegetables, and black bean salad.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Cilantro Lime Rice

This tangy and aromatic rice is a perfect companion for carnitas. The flavors of cilantro and lime will complement the savory pork, making every bite a delight.

2. Refried Beans

Creamy and comforting, refried beans add a rich texture to your carnitas meal. They're a classic Mexican side dish that never disappoints.

3. Grilled Corn

Sweet, smoky, and charred, grilled corn is an irresistible side dish. The sweetness of the corn balances the savory flavors of the carnitas, creating a tasty contrast.4.

4. Pico de Gallo

This fresh and zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor to your carnitas. Made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños, it's the perfect topping or side dish to brighten up your meal.

5. Mexican Rice

This flavorful and slightly spicy rice dish is a classic side for any Mexican meal. The combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying addition to your carnitas feast.

6. Radish Chips

For a light and crunchy side dish, try radish chips. They're a healthy alternative to traditional chips and add a refreshing crispiness to your carnitas meal.

7. Guacamole

Creamy and flavorful, guacamole is a great side dish to serve with carnitas. It adds a smooth texture and delicious taste that complements the tender pork.

8. Coleslaw

A crunchy and tangy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the tender and juicy carnitas. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and dressing creates a refreshing side dish that balances out the meal.

9. Pickled Red Onions

These tangy and slightly sweet onions bring a pop of color and flavor to your carnitas plate. They're easy to make and add a bright, refreshing taste.

10. Roasted Vegetables

Serve your carnitas with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and delicious option. The mix of flavors and textures will make your meal even more satisfying.

11. Black Bean Salad

This protein-packed salad is a tasty and nutritious side dish. Made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado, it's a colorful and delicious addition to your carnitas feast.

12. Homemade Tabasco

Add a spicy kick to your carnitas with homemade Tabasco sauce. It's easy to make and adds a flavorful heat to your meal, taking it to the next level.

13. Salsa Verde

This tangy and slightly spicy green salsa is made with tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro. It's a versatile side dish that adds a delicious zing to your carnitas.

14. Chipotle Lime Crema

Drizzle this smoky and tangy sauce over your carnitas for an extra layer of flavor. It's a creamy addition that complements the dish perfectly.

15. Fried Plantains

Sweet and slightly caramelized, fried plantains bring a unique taste to your meal. They're a great side dish to serve with carnitas, offering a delightful contrast to the savory pork.

16. Queso Fundido

Melted and bubbly, queso fundido is a warm and comforting cheese dip that pairs well with carnitas. Serve it with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a deliciously cheesy side dish.

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