Fish tacos are a delicious and versatile dish, but even the best fish taco needs the right accompaniments to truly shine. Choosing the perfect sides elevates the entire dining experience, balancing the flavors and textures of the fish, tortillas, and toppings. This guide explores a variety of side dishes that perfectly complement the delicate, often slightly spicy, and refreshing nature of fish tacos.
What are the Best Sides for Fish Tacos?
The best side dish for fish tacos depends on your personal preferences and the specific flavors in your tacos. However, some sides consistently pair well and provide a delicious contrast to the main dish. We'll explore several options, addressing common questions people ask about pairing sides with fish tacos.
What are some healthy sides for fish tacos?
Health-conscious diners can easily find satisfying and nutritious side dishes to complement their fish tacos. A simple fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. Opt for greens like spinach or romaine lettuce, add some colorful vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Another healthy option is grilled or roasted vegetables. Corn, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus all work beautifully. Their sweetness and slight char complement the fish's delicate flavor. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime enhances their natural flavors.
What are some easy sides for fish tacos?
For a quick and easy side, consider Mexican rice or black beans. Both are readily available pre-made or can be easily cooked from scratch. They provide a hearty and flavorful counterpoint to the lighter fish tacos, adding a satisfying element to the meal. A simple pico de gallo adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
Another simple and incredibly flavorful side is guacamole. The creamy avocado paired with lime, cilantro, and onion offers a fantastic contrast in texture and flavor to the crispy fish. Store-bought guacamole is convenient, but homemade is easy and always tastes better.
What are some unique sides for fish tacos?
Beyond the classics, there are plenty of unique sides that can elevate your fish taco experience. Consider a mango salsa for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the mango complements the often spicy fish tacos beautifully.
Another unique option is coleslaw. A creamy, slightly tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing and textural contrast to the fish and tortillas. Experiment with different types of cabbage and dressings to find your favorite combination.
A slightly more adventurous side is street corn salad (Esquites). This vibrant salad combines corn kernels, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a flavorful and texturally exciting experience.
What kind of chips go with fish tacos?
The perfect chip pairing depends on your preference, but generally, tortilla chips are a classic choice. They offer a familiar crunch and easily soak up any excess salsa or sauces. Consider serving both regular and flavored tortilla chips to add some variety.
However, don't be afraid to experiment! Plantain chips offer a sweeter, slightly more tropical alternative, while sweet potato chips introduce a different flavor profile altogether.
What side dishes go best with spicy fish tacos?
If your fish tacos pack a serious heat, you'll want sides that balance the spice. A creamy, cooling side like Mexican crema or sour cream is ideal. The coolness of the dairy helps to neutralize the heat while adding a rich, satisfying texture. A simple lime rice also offers a refreshing counterpoint to spicier fish tacos.
By carefully considering the flavors and textures of your fish tacos and your preferred style of dining, you can choose the perfect sides to create a truly memorable meal. Experiment and find your favorite combinations!
