Mexican
What Goes With Tacos?
Tacos pair perfectly with rice, refried beans, elote (Mexican street corn), guacamole and chips, or a simple cabbage slaw. Mexican beer or agua fresca are the classic drinks.
Best Pairings for Tacos
Mexican Rice
starchTomato-infused, slightly seasoned Mexican rice absorbs salsa and extra juice from the tacos beautifully.
Refried Beans
starchA compulsory part of a proper taco plate — smear on the side or use to build a side tostada.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
vegetableCharred corn with mayo, cotija, lime, and chilli — the most flavourful corn side dish and a natural taco companion.
Guacamole & Tortilla Chips
otherStart with chips and guac while the tacos are being assembled — the chips occupy hands and avocado's fat is a flavour bridge.
Pico de Gallo
sauceFresh tomato salsa served on the side — lets guests control heat and salt levels.
Cabbage Slaw
saladA quick lime-dressed cabbage slaw is traditional in fish tacos and works as a refreshing side for any taco.
Mexican Beer (Corona, Modelo)
drinkA cold Mexican lager with lime is the definitive taco occasion drink.
Agua Fresca / Horchata
drinkCooling, sweet, non-alcoholic Mexican drinks that balance the heat and spice of tacos perfectly.
Churros
dessertCrispy fried dough with cinnamon sugar for dessert — the most widely loved Mexican dessert after a taco meal.
Serving Tips
- 1Set up a taco bar — let guests build their own. Provide a range of toppings: cheese, sour cream, multiple salsas, pickled jalapeños, guac.
- 2Make rice and beans ahead — they hold well in advance and free you up for assembling tacos.
- 3Warm tortillas directly on a gas burner for 10–15 seconds per side for authentic char and pliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What side dishes go with tacos?
Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (street corn), guacamole and chips, and cabbage slaw are the core taco sides. For a crowd, set up a taco bar with all the toppings and a few of these sides.
What to serve with fish tacos?
Cabbage slaw (traditionally dressed with lime and mayo), mango salsa, pico de gallo, Mexican rice, and guacamole are all classic fish taco companions. Lime wedges are essential.
What drinks go with tacos?
Mexican lager (Corona, Modelo), margaritas, horchata, agua fresca, or a simple cold lemonade. For a party, a pitcher of margaritas is the crowd favourite.
What dessert goes after tacos?
Churros, tres leches cake, sopapillas with honey, or a simple vanilla ice cream with cinnamon. Fruit-based desserts like mango or strawberries with cream also work well after a heavy taco spread.