Indulge in the delightful combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables wrapped within a crispy corn tortilla – that’s what shrimp tacos are all about. For me, there’s nothing quite like savoring each bite of these heavenly treats. The experience is truly sublime. It’s no wonder I’m hooked! But, to take the meal to the next level, you’ll need some expertly curated side dishes to complement the main event.
Elevate your shrimp tacos into a lively fiesta with 12 mouthwatering options that will leave you and your guests screaming ‘ole!’
Tortilla Chips and Mango Salsa
Starting with the quintessential Mexican treat, let’s kick things off with chips and salsa. This dynamic duo has captured hearts everywhere, and it’s easy to see why. Who can resist the allure of crunchy tortilla chips smothered in a rich, tangy, and spicy salsa? The perfect party side, chips and salsa will leave your guests satisfied and eager for more.
The beauty of this snack lies in its effortless preparation. Simply grab a bag of chips and you’re halfway there!
As for the salsa, it’s as simple as combining diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Voilà!
Want to put your own spin on this classic? Try adding some sliced mango for a burst of tropical sweetness and a pop of color that will elevate the entire experience.
Pico de Gallo
While shrimp tacos are already a culinary delight, the addition of pico de gallo elevates them to new heights. The combination of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro is nothing short of mouthwatering. But what exactly sets pico de gallo apart from traditional salsa? The answer lies in its chunky texture and fresh flavor profile, earning it the nickname ‘salsa fresca’. In reality, pico de gallo is a type of salsa, characterized by its coarse consistency and vibrant flavor.
Spanish Rice
When hosting Taco Tuesday gatherings, a staple side dish is often overlooked: cooked rice. This carb-rich food provides a satisfying complement to the bold flavors of tacos, leaving guests feeling full and content. One popular variation is Spanish-style rice, which gets its flavor from a medley of vegetables including tomatoes, garlic, onions, and more.
The addition of fresh lime juice and cilantro can elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it an impressive centerpiece for your party.
Coleslaw
This vibrant twist on traditional coleslaw is anything but ordinary – it’s a game-changing Mexican coleslaw that’s simply phenomenal. The key to its success lies in the carefully curated combination of cabbage, onions, corn, black beans, and jalapenos, which harmoniously blend to create a deliciously authentic Mexican treat.
In contrast to traditional mayonnaise-based slaws, this recipe instead employs a tangy vinaigrette that imparts a light, refreshing, and crunchy texture – perfect for elevating your shrimp tacos or serving as a standout side dish.
Jicama Slaw
The humble coleslaw just got a whole lot more interesting with the addition of jicama, or Mexican yam. This sweet and crunchy twist brings a new dimension to the classic side dish, making it light, refreshing, and visually appealing. Once you’ve experienced the unique flavor and texture combination, you might find yourself saying goodbye to traditional slaw for good.
Elote
The allure of Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, lies in its trifecta of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. This delectable side dish is a staple at any fiesta, and for good reason. Its harmonious blend of grilled corn, creamy sour cream, tangy mayo, spicy chili powder, and melted cheese creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The perfect pairing? Shrimp tacos, where the sweetness of the corn complements the succulence of the seafood.
While some may assume Elote is too complex to prepare, rest assured that it’s surprisingly simple: just grill the corn and combine with your choice of toppings. I firmly believe that its one-of-a-kind flavors make the effort well worth it. Give it a try, and you’ll likely agree.
Mexican Corn Salad
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Mexican corn salad, a vibrant and refreshing creation that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This crowd-pleasing side dish is essentially an elote-inspired salad, with grilled corn kernels, crumbled cheese, and a creamy dressing. The best part? It’s a cinch to eat and won’t leave you feeling messy or sticky. A perfect blend of flavors and textures, Mexican corn salad is the ideal accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Charro Beans (frijoles charros)
Pinto beans are the foundation of Charro beans, a hearty slow-cooked soup that’s deeply rooted in Mexican cuisine. The rich flavor profile is achieved by combining the beans with smoky bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, a dash of pepper, and a burst of tomato freshness. This comforting bowl of goodness is affectionately known as Frijoles Charros or Cowboy Beans – a name that perfectly captures its rugged charm.
When it comes to elevating your Mexican feast to authentic heights, Charro beans are an absolute must-have. Whether you’re serving up shrimp tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, this Tex-Mex classic pairs beautifully with all of them, delivering a flavor experience that’s simply unmatched.
Mexican Chopped Salad
The versatility of this Mexican chopped salad is undeniable – it’s a perfect accompaniment to shrimp tacos, and its bold flavors will leave you wanting more. A medley of colorful ingredients including red onions, bell peppers, jicama, lettuce, zucchini, tomatoes, black beans, and corn creates a harmonious blend that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Whether served as a side dish or spooned over tacos, this salad is a winner, thanks to its well-balanced mix of fresh veggies and a revitalizing dressing.
Margaritas
A celebration isn’t complete without the perfect cocktail. In this case, we’re kicking things off with margaritas – a classic Mexican drink that’s as much fun to consume as it is to create. Not only do they pair exquisitely with shrimp tacos, but their sweet and tangy notes also provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the wrap. The harmony of flavors is nothing short of beautiful. And the best part?
Margaritas are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just three key ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. To take it to the next level, be sure to rim your glass with salt for a salty-sweet treat that’s sure to please.
Sweet Mexican Corn Cake
Indulge in the unapologetically sweet and savory delight that is this corn-infused cake. Every bite is a symphony of textures, with moist crumb giving way to bursts of fresh corn flavor. The addition of cornflour and cornmeal amplifies the flavor profile, making it impossible to resist another slice. Take it to new heights by topping it with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a rich caramel drizzle that will leave you craving more.
Sopapillas
Indulge in the delightful combination of savory shrimp tacos and sweet Sopapillas, a quintessential Mexican dessert that will satisfy your cravings. These puffy doughs are deep-fried to a golden crisp, often filled with luscious sweet fillings like berries and cream. Alternatively, they can be simply dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with warm honey, offering an irresistible treat. The mere mention of Sopapillas is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
