Are you a fan of walking tacos but unsure of what to serve alongside them to complete your meal? Look no further! In this article, we will explore a variety of delicious options that perfectly complement the flavors of walking tacos. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a fun evening in, these mouthwatering side dishes will elevate your walking taco experience to a whole new level. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with these fantastic pairings!
Main Dish Options
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a delicious and healthy option for your walking tacos. The tender and flavorful chicken will complement the other flavors in your taco perfectly. You can marinate the chicken in a variety of seasonings, such as Mexican spices or a tangy citrus marinade, before grilling it to perfection. Sliced grilled chicken adds a protein-packed punch to your walking tacos and makes them even more satisfying.
Ground Beef
ground beef is a classic choice for walking tacos. It’s versatile and can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit your taste preferences. You can cook the ground beef with a blend of traditional Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder, or add a twist by incorporating flavors from other cuisines. The juicy and flavorful beef will provide a rich and meaty element to your walking tacos, making them a truly satisfying meal.
Grilled Shrimp
For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp is an excellent choice to top your walking tacos. The succulent and tender shrimp add a delicate and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. You can marinate the shrimp in a zesty lime and garlic marinade or a spicy chipotle sauce before grilling them to perfection. The combination of grilled shrimp and the other fresh ingredients in your walking tacos creates a taste sensation that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a delectable option that adds a smoky and savory flavor to your walking tacos. Slow-cooked to perfection and then shredded, the tender and juicy pulled pork pairs wonderfully with the crunchy taco shells and fresh toppings. You can season the pork with a blend of spices, such as paprika, cumin, and brown sugar, to give it a flavorful and slightly sweet profile. The combination of pulled pork and the vibrant flavors of the walking tacos creates a mouthwatering and satisfying meal.
Vegetarian Options
Black Bean
Black beans are a fantastic vegetarian option to add to walking tacos. They are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. You can cook the black beans with a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano to give them a flavorful kick. The hearty and creamy texture of the black beans adds substance to your walking tacos and pairs well with the other toppings and condiments.
Grilled Vegetable
grilled vegetables are a delicious and colorful addition to your walking tacos. You can grill a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and corn for a medley of flavors and textures. The smoky and slightly charred taste of the grilled vegetables adds depth to your walking tacos and provides a satisfying alternative to meat. You can also marinate the vegetables in a tangy vinaigrette or a zesty citrus marinade before grilling for that extra burst of flavor.
Mushroom
If you’re a mushroom lover, grilled mushrooms are an excellent vegetarian option for your walking tacos. The earthy and meaty flavor of mushrooms makes them a great substitute for meat. You can marinate the mushrooms in a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and herbs before grilling them to perfection. The juicy and tender mushrooms add a rich and satisfying element to your walking tacos that will please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Salads
Mexican Caesar Salad
Mexican Caesar salad is a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment to your walking tacos. This variation of the traditional Caesar salad features a zesty dressing made with lime juice, garlic, and Mexican spices. You can toss the salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful combination of textures. The tangy and creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the walking tacos, making it a delicious and well-rounded meal.
Avocado Salad
Avocado salad is a vibrant and creamy option that brings a burst of freshness to your walking tacos. You can combine diced avocados with cherry tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a simple yet satisfying salad. The creamy and buttery texture of the avocados complements the crunchy taco shells and adds a luxurious element to your walking tacos. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad will elevate your taco experience to a whole new level.
Corn and Black Bean Salad
Corn and black bean salad is a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with walking tacos. You can combine cooked black beans, sweet corn, diced red onions, bell peppers, and cilantro for a delicious and nutritious salad. The combination of the sweet corn and creamy black beans creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The freshness of the vegetables and the tanginess of the dressing make this salad a delightful addition to your walking taco spread.
Sides
Mexican Rice
Mexican rice is a classic side dish that complements walking tacos perfectly. You can cook long-grain rice with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a flavorful and aromatic base. The fluffy and slightly spicy rice pairs well with the flavors of the walking tacos and adds a satisfying and filling element to the meal. You can garnish the Mexican rice with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness and color.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and make a delicious side dish for walking tacos. You can cook pinto beans with onions, garlic, and spices, and then mash them to a smooth and creamy consistency. The creamy and slightly smoky flavor of the refried beans adds a comforting element to your walking tacos. You can serve the refried beans as a side dish or spoon them directly into the taco shells for a truly indulgent experience.
Tortilla Chips and Salsa
Tortilla chips and salsa are a classic and crowd-pleasing side dish that will enhance your walking tacos. You can serve crispy tortilla chips with a variety of salsas, such as traditional tomato salsa, salsa verde, or even a spicy mango salsa. The crunchy texture of the chips combined with the fresh and tangy flavors of the salsa create a delightful contrast to the walking tacos. This side dish is perfect for snacking and adds an extra element of fun to your taco spread.
Dips and Sauces
Guacamole
Guacamole is a must-have dip for your walking tacos. Made from ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and other seasonings, guacamole adds a creamy and tangy component to your tacos. Its richness and smooth texture complement the crispy taco shells and the other toppings perfectly. You can also customize your guacamole by adding diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, or even a touch of spicy salsa for an extra kick. This flavorful and versatile dip is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Sour Cream
Sour cream is a classic and versatile sauce that pairs well with walking tacos. Its creamy and tangy flavor adds a cooling element to the dish and helps balance out the spiciness of the other ingredients. You can dollop sour cream on top of your walking tacos or serve it on the side for dipping. Its smooth and velvety texture adds a luxurious touch to your tacos and gives them a creamy richness that will leave you wanting more.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a vibrant and fresh salsa that brings a burst of flavor to your walking tacos. Made with diced tomatoes, red onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, this salsa adds a zesty and tangy element to the tacos. The combination of the juicy tomatoes, crunchy onions, and fragrant cilantro makes for a delicious and refreshing topping. You can spoon the pico de gallo directly onto your tacos or serve it on the side for everyone to customize their own.
Beverage Options
Mexican Soda
Mexican soda is a fun and refreshing beverage option to serve with walking tacos. These sodas often come in a variety of flavors, including popular favorites like pineapple, tamarind, and grapefruit. The unique flavors and the vibrant colors of Mexican soda add a festive touch to your meal. The carbonation and sweetness of the soda help balance out the bold flavors of the walking tacos, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Margarita
Margaritas are a classic and crowd-pleasing cocktail option that goes perfectly with walking tacos. You can mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec with ice for a refreshing and tangy drink. The citrusy and slightly tart flavors of the margarita complement the flavors of the tacos and add a festive and celebratory element to your meal. You can garnish the margaritas with a salt rim or a slice of lime for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Lemonade
Lemonade is a simple and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage option that pairs well with walking tacos. You can make fresh lemonade by combining freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, and water. The tangy and sweet flavors of the lemonade provide a palate-cleansing element to the meal and help balance out the richness of the tacos. You can also add a twist by infusing the lemonade with other flavors, such as mint or berries, for a refreshing and flavorful twist.
Desserts
Churros
Churros are a delightful and indulgent dessert option that adds a sweet and crunchy element to your walking tacos. These fried pastries are typically coated in cinnamon sugar and have a crisp exterior with a soft and doughy interior. You can serve churros with a side of chocolate ganache or dulce de leche for dipping, or simply sprinkle powdered sugar on top. The warm and comforting flavors of the churros provide a satisfying end to your walking taco meal.
Flan
Flan is a creamy and decadent custard dessert that adds a touch of elegance to your walking tacos. Made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, flan has a silky smooth texture and a delicate caramel sauce. The rich and sweet flavors of the flan complement the savory and spicy flavors of the walking tacos and create a perfect balance of tastes. You can serve the flan in individual ramekins or as a large caramelized flan for everyone to share.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is a moist and creamy dessert that is sure to impress your guests. This traditional Mexican cake is soaked in a mixture of three milks – condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream – which gives it its signature richness and indulgence. The light and airy cake is topped with whipped cream and can be garnished with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and presentation. Tres leches cake is a sweet and satisfying way to end your walking taco feast.
Condiments and Toppings
Cheese
Cheese is a classic and essential topping for walking tacos. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco, to add a creamy and savory element to your tacos. The melted cheese adds richness and depth to the other flavors and helps bind the ingredients together. You can sprinkle the cheese on top of your walking tacos or mix it with the other ingredients for a gooey and cheesy delight.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a refreshing and crunchy topping that adds a burst of freshness to your walking tacos. You can use shredded iceberg lettuce or romaine lettuce for a crisp and light texture. The cool and crisp lettuce provides a contrast to the warm and savory fillings and gives the tacos a satisfying crunch. You can layer the lettuce on top of the other ingredients or mix it in for an evenly distributed green element.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a juicy and tangy topping that adds brightness to your walking tacos. You can dice fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor or use cherry tomatoes for a sweet and colorful touch. The juicy and acidic tomatoes complement the other ingredients and help balance out the richness of the meats and sauces. You can scatter the tomatoes on top of your walking tacos or mix them in for an even distribution of flavors.
Onions
Onions are a versatile topping that adds a bold and pungent flavor to your walking tacos. You can use red onions for a milder and sweeter taste or white onions for a more intense and aromatic flavor. The sharpness of the onions adds depth to the other ingredients and provides a satisfying crunch. You can slice the onions thinly or dice them, depending on your preference, and sprinkle them on top of your walking tacos.
Sliced Jalapenos
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, sliced jalapenos are the perfect topping for your walking tacos. These small and green peppers are mildly spicy and add a vibrant and tangy element to the dish. You can slice the jalapenos thinly and scatter them on top of your walking tacos for a burst of heat and flavor. The combination of the crunchy taco shells, savory fillings, and spicy jalapenos creates a tantalizing and satisfying taste experience.
Additional Suggested Toppings
Cilantro
Cilantro is a fragrant and herbaceous topping that adds a burst of freshness to your walking tacos. You can sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top of your tacos for a vibrant and flavorful garnish. The aromatic and citrusy flavors of the cilantro complement the other ingredients and create a harmonious balance of tastes. Whether you love cilantro or prefer to omit it, its addition brings a touch of brightness and complexity to your walking tacos.
Sliced Radishes
Sliced radishes are a unique and crunchy topping that adds a pop of color and a peppery bite to your walking tacos. You can thinly slice radishes and scatter them on top of your tacos for a refreshing and spicy element. The crisp texture and zesty flavor of the radishes create a delightful contrast to the other ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of radishes or looking to try something new, their addition brings a refreshing and unexpected twist to your walking tacos.
Salsa Verde
Salsa verde is a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that adds a bright and zesty flavor to your walking tacos. Made with tomatillos, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, salsa verde provides a refreshing and vibrant accompaniment to the tacos. The tartness of the tomatillos and the heat of the jalapenos create a well-balanced and flavorful sauce. You can drizzle salsa verde on top of your walking tacos or serve it on the side for dipping.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
Mini Tacos
If you’re looking for a fun and bite-sized option, mini tacos are the way to go. You can make mini versions of the walking tacos by using smaller taco shells and reducing the amount of fillings. These adorable and portable tacos are perfect for parties or gatherings where guests can grab one or two and enjoy them on the go. You can set up a mini taco station with a variety of fillings and toppings, allowing everyone to build their own custom mini tacos.
Taco Bar
A taco bar is a fantastic way to serve walking tacos and allow your guests to customize their own creations. You can set up a buffet-style spread with a variety of taco shells, fillings, and toppings, along with various dips and sauces. This interactive and customizable setup ensures that everyone can create their perfect walking tacos and tailor them to their taste preferences. A taco bar also encourages socializing and mingling as guests gather around the table to build their tacos.
Build-Your-Own Walking Tacos
For a hands-on and interactive dining experience, consider a build-your-own walking taco station. Set up a table with individual bowls of taco fillings and a variety of toppings, along with an assortment of taco shells. Each guest can grab a taco shell and fill it with their choice of fillings and toppings, creating their own unique walking taco masterpiece. This DIY approach allows guests to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations. It also adds an element of fun and engagement to your gathering.
