What Goes Good With Fish Tacos? Discover the Perfect Pairings!

Are you a fan of fish tacos but always unsure what to pair them with? Look no further! We have compiled the perfect list of delicious and complementary side dishes and drinks that will take your fish taco game to the next level.

Whether you’re having a casual dinner party or just trying to spice up your weeknight meal, these pairings are sure to impress. From refreshing cocktails to zesty salads, our suggestions will make your taste buds dance with joy.

“The best way to enjoy a good fish taco is alongside an equally tasty side dish.” -Unknown

We understand that pairing food can be daunting, but we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow tips and ideas. Plus, we’ll even throw in some unexpected twists that will have your guests asking for seconds (and thirds!). So pull up a chair, grab your fork, and let’s dive into the delicious world of fish taco pairings!

Avocado Salsa

The perfect complement to your fish tacos is avocado salsa. It’s fresh, flavorful, and adds a nice creamy texture to the taco. What’s great about this recipe is that it can be easily customized to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/4 red onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

To make the avocado salsa, simply mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Make sure to use ripe avocados for optimal flavor.

Instructions

Begin by preparing the ingredients as listed above. Once everything is prepped, combine all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Stir gently until everything is fully combined.

Taste the salsa and adjust any seasoning if needed. If you prefer a spicier salsa, add more jalapenos or leave some seeds in when chopping them up. If you prefer a milder salsa, omit the jalapenos altogether.

This salsa is best served immediately, but can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that the avocado may turn slightly brown over time due to oxidation.

Variations

“You can switch things up by adding different herbs or spices to the salsa. Try adding some cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.” -Chef Maria Martinez

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Some additional ingredients that would work well in avocado salsa include diced tomatoes, corn, or even mango for a sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

“Avocado salsa is not only perfect with fish tacos but it can also go well with almost any type of Mexican food.” -Chef Salvador Aguilar

In addition to being the perfect accompaniment to fish tacos, avocado salsa is versatile enough to pair with other Mexican dishes such as burritos, nachos, or even on top of grilled chicken or steak.

You could even use it as a dip with tortilla chips or spread it on a sandwich instead of mayo. The possibilities are endless!

Next time you’re enjoying some fresh catch from the ocean, make sure to whip up some delicious avocado salsa to take your meal to the next level. It’s simple to make and adds a burst of freshness to every bite.

Cilantro Lime Rice

When it comes to finding the perfect side dish for fish tacos, few things can compare to a flavorful and aromatic cilantro lime rice. This zesty creation is simple to make yet packs a powerful punch of flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness and mildness of the fish tacos.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

To make delicious cilantro lime rice:

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and saute it for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice, stirring constantly. Cook the rice for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Pour in the water or chicken broth into the pan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer for around 20 minutes, until all the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
5. Remove from the heat and let sit covered for 5-10 minutes before fluffing it up using a fork.
6. Add the lime juice, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to the cooked rice. Stir until well combined.
7. Your flavor-packed cilantro lime rice is ready to serve!

Variations

If you want to try something different, here are some variations on classic cilantro lime rice:

• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add chopped jalapeno peppers or red chili flakes to your cilantro lime rice recipe. This will give the dish a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with fish tacos.
• Get creative with herbs: While fresh cilantro is an essential ingredient in most cilantro lime rice recipes, feel free to mix things up by adding other herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, corn, or peas can make a delicious and colorful addition to your cilantro lime rice. Not only does it boost the nutritional quality of this side dish, but it also adds a bit of texture and interest to your meal.
• Try coconut milk instead of water: Instead of using plain water to cook the rice, consider using creamy and rich coconut milk. This makes the dish creamier and richer with a slightly tropical vibe?

“A good side dish should complement but not overwhelm the main course,” says Food Network’s Giada De Laurentiis. “Cilantro-lime rice and sweet potato fries offer contrasting flavors to fried fish tacos.”

See which variation works best for you and enjoy your new creation alongside those crispy, tangy fish tacos!

Grilled Pineapple

When it comes to pairing a delicious side dish with fish tacos, there are plenty of tasty options out there. But have you ever considered trying grilled pineapple? This sweet and savory fruit makes for the perfect complement to your favorite seafood dish.

Ingredients

• 1 fresh pineapple, cored and sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, lime juice, ground cinnamon, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
3. Brush both sides of each pineapple slice generously with the glaze mixture.
4. Place pineapple slices on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side or until lightly charred and caramelized.
5. Remove pineapple from the grill and let cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Not only does grilled pineapple add a burst of flavor to any fish taco dish, but it’s also incredibly versatile in terms of how it can be served. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Toss cooked pineapple chunks with chopped cilantro and red onion for a colorful and zesty salsa topping.
• Place slices of grilled pineapple on top of your favorite fish taco for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Serve grilled pineapple alongside a side dish of rice or black beans for a complete meal.

“Grilled pineapple is an unexpected but delicious addition to any seafood dish. The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of fresh fish tacos.” -Food Network

Giving grilled pineapple a try as a side dish to your next fish taco dinner party will surely be a hit amongst your guests!

Chipotle Cream Sauce

When it comes to fish tacos, adding a delicious sauce can take them to the next level. One popular option is chipotle cream sauce, which adds a smoky and spicy kick to your tacos.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (more or less depending on desired spice level)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can of chipotle peppers
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of half a lime
• Salt, to taste

“Mayonnaise and sour cream create a creamy base for this spiced up chipotle sauce.” -Allrecipes

The ingredients for chipotle cream sauce are easy to find and can be adjusted to meet your preferences. The adobo sauce and chipotle pepper add heat while the sour cream and lime juice provide a tangy balance. Garlic enhances the flavor even further.

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
2. Add the minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime juice. Stir well.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve with fish tacos.

“This recipe was amazing! I topped my homemade salmon tacos with this sauce and it added so much flavor.” -Tasty

The instructions for making chipotle cream sauce are simple and take only a few minutes to complete. After mixing all of the ingredients together, allow the sauce to chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to dine on your delicious fish tacos.

Now that we’ve covered how to make chipotle cream sauce, let’s take a look at what else goes well with fish tacos!

What Goes Good With Fish Tacos?

Fish tacos are a versatile dish that pair well with various sides and toppings. Here are some options:

• Cilantro Lime Rice: The tangy, fresh flavor of cilantro lime rice complements the zesty taste of fish tacos nicely.
• Black Beans: Adding beans to your meal is always a satisfying choice, and they are no exception with fish tacos.
• Pico de Gallo: This tomato-based salsa adds a refreshing crunch to your tacos.
• Greek Yogurt: A healthy substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt also pairs well with fish tacos thanks to its creamy texture.
• Mango Salsa: For those who enjoy sweet-and-spicy flavors, mango salsa provides the perfect balance when paired with spicy fish tacos.

“A lightly charred corn tortilla filled with crispy fish fillet, shredded cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, a dollop of crema, and a twist of lime – talk about a party in your mouth!” -Jo Cooks

No matter what side dishes or toppings you choose, it’s hard to beat fish tacos as a go-to dish for Taco Tuesday (or any day!).

Chipotle cream sauce is a great addition to fish tacos and enhances their flavor with a smoky and spicy flair. By mixing together sour cream, mayonnaise, adobo sauce, garlic, lime juice, and minced chipotle pepper, you’ll create a creamy and delicious condiment in minutes that can pair well with other tasty sides like cilantro lime rice or black beans.

Pickled Red Onions

Ingredients

To make pickled red onions, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions

To prepare pickled red onions, follow these simple steps:

1. Add the sliced red onions to a clean jar.
2. In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and peppercorns and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
3. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the red onions in the jar, making sure that all of the onions are covered with the liquid.
4. Cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before transferring it to the refrigerator.
5. The pickled red onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

If you’re wondering what goes good with fish tacos, then pickled red onions might just be the perfect answer! These tangy, crunchy onions add a burst of flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of white fish. They also provide a beautiful pop of color that makes any dish look more appetizing.

Why should you choose pickled red onions to accompany your fish tacos? Here are a few reasons:

• Pickled red onions are a healthy addition to any dish. They’re low in calories and fat, but high in vitamin C and fiber.
• The acidic nature of pickled red onions helps to balance out the richness of the fish taco filling. This makes for a more satisfying eating experience.
• Pickled red onions are versatile and can be used in many other dishes beyond fish tacos. Try them on sandwiches, salads, or even on top of grilled meats!

Here are a few tips for using pickled red onions with your fish tacos:

• Add them as a garnish on top of your taco filling for a refreshing crunch.
• Try mixing some pickled red onions into your guacamole or salsa for an added tangy kick.
• If you don’t have time to make your own pickled red onions, look for pre-made options at your local grocery store. Just be sure to check the ingredient list to avoid any unwanted additives.

“Pickling is such a simple process and it’s a great way to preserve foods while adding flavor.” -Joel Robuchon

So next time you’re making fish tacos, don’t forget to add some pickled red onions for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition! Your taste buds (and body) will thank you.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

When it comes to finding a side dish that pairs well with fish tacos, black bean and corn salad is an excellent choice. This refreshing and colorful side dish features ingredients that perfectly complement the flavors of fish tacos.

Ingredients

The ingredients for black bean and corn salad include:

• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ small red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Add in the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and red onion. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. If you’re using cilantro, sprinkle it over the top as a garnish.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your personal tastes and preferences. Consider experimenting with some of these variations:

• Add a diced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Swap out the black beans for kidney beans, white beans, or chickpeas.
• Replace the red bell pepper with diced tomatoes or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
• Add some heat by incorporating a minced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Black bean and corn salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it as a side dish for fish tacos topped with fresh salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
• Use it as a filling for vegetarian wraps or burritos.
• Add it to mixed greens for a hearty main-course salad.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a more substantial meal.

“Corn is a wonderfully sweet vegetable that pairs perfectly with savory black beans and tangy lime juice – you really can’t go wrong!” -Rebecca Firkser

Black bean and corn salad is an excellent choice when seeking a tasty and nutritious side dish to complement fish tacos. The best thing about this recipe is its versatility, giving it the potential to be enjoyed in a variety of different ways.

Frequently Asked Questions