What To Serve With Shrimp Tacos? 16 BEST Side Dishes

Ah, shrimp tacos. Is there anything better than biting into a soft tortilla filled with crispy, flavorful shrimp, topped with fresh salsa, and maybe a squeeze of lime? As a devoted foodie, I say no! But as good as shrimp tacos are on their own, they're even better when served with the right side dishes. And that's what I'm here to help with today.

From classic Mexican sides to some unexpected pairings, here are 16 great options to try.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with shrimp tacos are refried beans, Spanish rice, tostilocos, salsa, tabasco, corn on the cob, tortilla soup, pico de gallo, guacamole, Mexican coleslaw, cilantro lime rice, black beans, grilled pineapple, Mexican street corn salad, chiles rellenos, and tostadas.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Refried Beans

Refried beans are a classic accompaniment to Mexican cuisine, and they pair beautifully with shrimp tacos. Their creamy texture and savory flavor provide a wonderful contrast to the crispiness of the shrimp and the freshness of the taco toppings. Whether you make them from scratch or use a canned version, refried beans are a must-have side dish for shrimp tacos.

2. Spanish Rice

Spanish rice, with its distinctive tomato flavor and hint of spices, is another fantastic side dish for shrimp tacos. Its hearty texture and savory flavor complement the lightness of the shrimp. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate, making for a visually appealing meal.

3. Tostilocos

Tostilocos, a popular Mexican street food, are a fun and tasty side to serve with shrimp tacos. They're made with Tostitos chips topped with a variety of ingredients like cucumber, jicama, lime juice, hot sauce, and chamoy. The result is a snack that's salty, spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet - a perfect flavor explosion to complement your tacos.

4. Salsa

Salsa, with its fresh and tangy flavor, is a classic side dish for tacos. Whether it's a chunky tomato salsa, a tangy tomatillo salsa, or a spicy salsa roja, the vibrant flavors of salsa add a wonderful freshness to the rich shrimp tacos. Plus, it's great for dipping, adding an interactive element to your meal.

5. Tabasco

Tabasco sauce, with its vinegar tang and spicy kick, is a great addition to shrimp tacos. A few drops can enhance the flavors of your taco, adding a hint of heat that complements the shrimp. And for those who love a bit of extra spice, having a bottle of Tabasco on hand is a must.

6. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a delicious and hearty side dish to serve with shrimp tacos. The sweetness of the corn balances the savory shrimp, and the kernels add a fun crunch. You can grill the corn for a smoky flavor or boil it for a softer texture. Either way, a buttered corn on the cob is a side dish that's sure to please.

7. Tortilla Soup

Tortilla soup, with its rich broth and hearty ingredients, is a comforting side dish for shrimp tacos. The soup's robust flavors, from tomatoes, chiles, and spices, provide a nice contrast to the lightness of the shrimp tacos. Plus, the crispy tortilla strips that top the soup add a delightful crunch.

8. Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo is a fresh, chunky salsa that's a great accompaniment to shrimp tacos. Its vibrant flavors - ripe tomatoes, sharp onion, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime - add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the shrimp.

9. Tostadas

Tostadas, crispy fried tortillas, make a great side dish or even an alternative base for your shrimp filling. Top them with a bit of guacamole, refried beans, or a touch of salsa for a satisfying crunch that complements the shrimp tacos beautifully.

10. Guacamole

Guacamole, with its creamy texture and fresh flavor, is a fantastic side dish for shrimp tacos. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the crisp shrimp, and the lime, cilantro, and other ingredients in the guacamole add a burst of freshness to your plate.

11. Mexican Coleslaw

Mexican coleslaw is a tasty and refreshing side dish that pairs well with shrimp tacos. It's a bit lighter and tangier than traditional coleslaw, made with lime juice and cilantro. The crunch of the cabbage and the brightness of the dressing complement the shrimp tacos perfectly.

12. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a bright and flavorful side dish that's perfect for pairing with shrimp tacos. The citrusy lime and fresh cilantro flavors provide a lovely contrast to the savory shrimp. It's a simple yet satisfying side that's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

13. Black Beans

Black beans, with their earthy flavor and soft texture, are a great side dish for shrimp tacos. They're a staple in Mexican cuisine and add a hearty element to your meal. Plus, they're full of protein and fiber, making your taco meal even more satisfying.

14. Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a slightly unexpected but delicious side dish for shrimp tacos. The pineapple's natural sweetness is enhanced by grilling, and it offers a lovely contrast to the savory shrimp. Plus, the charred bits from the grill add a touch of smokiness that's really delicious.

15. Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as esquites, is a deconstructed version of the classic Mexican street corn. It's tangy, cheesy, spicy, and absolutely delicious. The creamy, cheesy flavor and the pop of fresh corn kernels make it a perfect side dish for shrimp tacos.

16. Chiles Rellenos

Chiles Rellenos, or stuffed peppers, are a flavorful and satisfying side dish that pairs well with shrimp tacos. The peppers are typically filled with cheese or meat, battered, and fried, providing a rich and savory contrast to the lightness of the shrimp tacos.

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