What to Serve with Shrimp Tacos: 30+ Delicious Pairings

Hey there, taco lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that shrimp tacos are a game-changer when it comes to taco night.

But have you ever wondered what to serve with shrimp tacos to take your meal to the next level? Well, you’re in luck! I’ve spent countless evenings experimenting with different side dishes, and I’m excited to share my findings with you.

In this ultimate guide, I’ll show a variety of delicious sides that perfectly complement the flavors of shrimp tacos.

From classic Mexican sides to unique and healthy options, I’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover how to create the perfect shrimp taco feast!

Classic Side Dishes for Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to what to serve with shrimp tacos, you can’t go wrong with these timeless favorites. These classic sides have stood the test of time for good reason – they’re delicious and pair perfectly with your favorite tacos!

Mexican Rice: A staple side dish, Mexican rice adds a hearty element to your shrimp taco meal. Its tomato-infused flavor and fluffy texture make it an ideal companion.

Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, refried beans are a classic side that complements the texture of shrimp tacos beautifully. They’re also incredibly easy to make from scratch or heat up from a can for a quick and easy side dish.

Black Beans: For a healthier alternative to refried beans, try serving whole black beans. They’re packed with fiber and protein, making your shrimp taco meal more filling and nutritious. I often season mine with cumin and garlic for extra flavor.

Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Nothing says “fiesta” like elote! This grilled corn on the cob, slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, is a crowd-pleaser. It adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy element to your shrimp taco spread.

Guacamole: Creamy, rich guacamole is a must-have for any taco night. Its smooth texture and fresh flavors perfectly complement the seasoned shrimp. Plus, it’s so versatile – use it as a dip or a topping for your tacos!

Pico de Gallo: Fresh, zesty, and bursting with flavor, pico de gallo is a simple yet delicious side for shrimp tacos. The combination of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a refreshing kick to each bite.

Queso Fundido: For cheese lovers, queso fundido is a dream come true. This gooey, melted cheese dip is perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips or drizzling over your shrimp tacos for an extra indulgent touch.

These classic sides are just the beginning of what you can serve with shrimp tacos. They’re tried and true favorites that will make your taco night a hit.

Healthy Sides For Shrimp Tacos

When I want to keep things on the lighter side, I turn to fresh and healthy side dishes. These sides bring vibrant flavors and textures to your meal without being too heavy, making them ideal for shrimp tacos.

Cilantro Lime Slaw: This is my go-to side for shrimp tacos. The crunchiness of the cabbage combined with the zesty lime and fresh cilantro creates a perfect balance.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This tropical salsa adds a sweet and creamy element to your shrimp tacos. The combination of ripe mango and buttery avocado is irresistible. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and healthy fats!

Cucumber Tomato Salad: For a refreshing side, try this simple salad. Dice cucumbers and tomatoes, add some red onion, and dress with lime juice and olive oil. It’s light, crisp, and perfect for hot summer days.

Grilled Vegetables: I love serving grilled veggies with shrimp tacos. Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions seasoned with a bit of chili powder and lime juice make for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Jicama Sticks with Chili and Lime: If you’ve never tried jicama, you’re in for a treat! This crunchy root vegetable is like a cross between an apple and a potato. Cut it into sticks, sprinkle with chili powder, and squeeze some lime juice over it for a refreshing and spicy side.

Roasted Bell Pepper Salad: Roasting bell peppers bring out their natural sweetness. Slice them up, toss with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs for a colorful and flavorful side dish.

Watermelon and Feta Salad: This might sound unusual, but trust me, it works! The sweetness of the watermelon and the saltiness of the feta cheese create a perfect balance. Add some mint leaves for extra freshness.

These fresh and healthy sides not only answer the question of what to serve with shrimp tacos, but they also add a nutritious boost to your meal. They’re perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light yet satisfying.

Unique and Flavorful Sides for Shrimp Tacos

If you’re looking to spice up your taco night with some out-of-the-box ideas, I’ve got you covered! These unique and flavorful sides will take your shrimp tacos to the next level.

Pineapple Salsa: This tropical twist on traditional salsa adds a sweet and tangy kick to your shrimp tacos. The combination of juicy pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro creates a burst of flavors that perfectly complement the savory shrimp.

Charro Beans: These hearty beans are a step up from your typical refried beans. Cooked with bacon, onions, and spices, charro beans offer a rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with shrimp tacos.

Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad): If you love elote but want something easier to eat, Esquites is your answer. This off-the-cob version of Mexican street corn is creamy, tangy, and absolutely delicious.

Pickled Red Onions: I can’t get enough of these! Pickled red onions add a zesty, tangy crunch to your shrimp tacos. They’re super easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for taco night.

Chipotle Black Bean and Corn Salad: This hearty salad combines the smokiness of chipotle with the sweetness of corn and the earthiness of black beans. It’s a great way to add some extra protein and fiber to your meal.

Avocado Fries: Yes, you read that right! Crispy on the outside, and creamy on the inside, avocado fries are a unique and indulgent side that pairs surprisingly well with shrimp tacos.

Tequila Lime Shrimp Skewers: This might be cheating a little since it’s more shrimp, but hear me out. These skewers, marinated in tequila and lime, offer a different flavor profile that complements your tacos beautifully.

These unique sides not only answer the question of what to serve with shrimp tacos, but they also add an element of surprise to your meal. They’re perfect for when you want to impress your guests or just shake up your regular taco routine.

Starchy Sides and Dips for Shrimp Tacos

When I’m thinking about what to serve with shrimp tacos, I always make sure to include some hearty, starchy sides and delicious dips. These options not only help fill you up but also provide a great base for soaking up all those delicious taco flavors.

Mexican Sweet Potato Fries: I love serving these as a healthier alternative to regular fries. Seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cinnamon, they offer a sweet and spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with shrimp tacos.

Cilantro Lime Rice: This isn’t your average rice side dish. The addition of fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice elevates plain rice to a flavorful accompaniment that complements the shrimp beautifully. It’s a staple in my taco night spread!

Tortilla Chips with Salsa Verde: While not strictly a side dish, no taco night is complete without some chips and salsa. Salsa verde, made with tomatillos and green chilies, offers a tangy contrast to the shrimp tacos.

Jalapeño Cornbread: For a Southern twist on taco night, try serving some spicy jalapeño cornbread. Its slightly sweet flavor and moist texture make it a great side for soaking up any extra taco juices.

Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: These crispy, zesty potatoes are always a hit. The chili and lime flavors echo those often found in shrimp tacos, creating a cohesive flavor profile for your meal.

Queso Blanco Dip: This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for both chips and tacos. I often find myself adding a dollop to my shrimp tacos for an extra layer of indulgence.

Spicy Bean Dip: For a protein-packed side, try a spicy bean dip. It’s great with chips, but I also love spreading a little on my tortilla before adding the shrimp and toppings.

These starchy sides and dips are great for rounding out your meal and ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. They’re also perfect for soaking up any delicious sauces or juices from your shrimp tacos.

When deciding what to serve with shrimp tacos, consider the overall balance of your meal. You want a mix of flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles to create a well-rounded and satisfying feast. With these starchy sides and dips, you’re well on your way to taco night perfection!

Beverage Pairings for Shrimp Tacos

When you’re planning what to serve with shrimp tacos, don’t forget about the drinks! The right beverages can elevate your taco night from good to great. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Margaritas and Other Cocktails: Classic margaritas with a hint of lime are the perfect match for spicy shrimp tacos. Consider trying a spicy jalapeño margarita for extra heat.

Mexican Beer Options: Light Mexican beers like Corona, Pacifico, or Modelo offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of shrimp tacos.

Non-Alcoholic Choices: For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, horchata (a creamy rice drink) or agua frescas (fruit-infused water) are both refreshing choices that pair well with shrimp tacos.

For more drink inspiration, check out these Mexican drink recipes in Delish.

Tips for Balancing Flavors When Serving Shrimp Tacos

When deciding what to serve with shrimp tacos, it’s important to consider how all the flavors will work together. Here are some tips I’ve learned over years of taco nights:

Considering spice levels

If your shrimp tacos are spicy, balance them with cooling sides like slaw or creamy guacamole.
For milder tacos, you can add heat with spicy salsas or hot sauce on the side.
Remember that spice can build up over the course of a meal, so have some cooling beverages on hand.

Balancing textures

Pair crispy elements (like tortilla chips) with softer sides (like refried beans).
Add crunch to soft tacos with crisp vegetables or slaw.
Consider a mix of hot and cold sides for temperature contrast.

Complementing seafood flavors

Citrusy sides like lime-infused dishes complement the natural flavors of shrimp.
Avoid overly fishy or competing seafood flavors on your sides.
Fresh, light flavors often work best with shrimp tacos.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create a well-balanced meal that highlights your delicious shrimp tacos. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not overpower, the star of the show!

FAQs: What to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

What Are Some Popular Mexican Sides for Shrimp Tacos?

Popular Mexican sides include refried beans, Mexican rice, elote (Mexican street corn), and pico de gallo. These traditional options enhance the authentic Mexican flavors of the meal.

What Are Some Healthy Sides for Shrimp Tacos?

Healthy sides for shrimp tacos include fresh salsa, guacamole, black bean salad, or grilled corn. These options add nutrients and fiber while complementing the flavors of the tacos.

What Are Some Low-Carb Options to Serve with Shrimp Tacos?

Low-carb options include cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad. These choices keep the meal light and flavorful while reducing carbohydrate intake.

What Desserts Pair Well with Shrimp Tacos?

Light, refreshing desserts work best after shrimp tacos. Consider fruit-based options like mango sorbet or lime popsicles, or traditional Mexican desserts such as flan or churros.

What Type of Rice Goes Well with Shrimp Tacos?

Cilantro lime rice or Mexican red rice pair excellently with shrimp tacos. These flavorful rice dishes complement the tacos without overpowering them and add a satisfying element to the meal.

What Are the Best Veggies for Shrimp Tacos?

Grilled bell peppers and onions, roasted zucchini, or a crisp cabbage slaw are excellent veggie options for shrimp tacos. They add texture, nutrients, and fresh flavors to the meal.

Can I Serve Shrimp Tacos with Non-Mexican Sides?

Yes, non-Mexican sides can complement shrimp tacos well. Greek salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables are great options. The key is choosing flavors that enhance rather than overpower the tacos.

How Many Side Dishes Should I Serve with Shrimp Tacos?

For a casual dinner, 2-3 sides are usually sufficient. For larger gatherings or more formal occasions, 4-5 sides offer more variety and ensure there’s something for everyone.