15 Best Sides for Fajitas You’ll Find Amazing

AndrewByAndrew Updated on

Growing up, I always loved Mexican food. My family and I would go to our favorite Mexican restaurant every week and order the same dishes. But there was one dish that I could never quite figure out: fajitas.

What were they? What did they taste like? And most importantly, what sides went best with them?

I eventually learned that fajitas are a type of Mexican dish made with grilled meat, vegetables, and tortillas. They are typically served with a variety of sides, including rice, beans, salsa, and guacamole.

Now that I know what fajitas are, I’ve been experimenting with different side dishes to see what goes best with them.

The truth is, I love eating fajitas with side dishes! They’re so flavorful and unique, and it’s always a fun experience to try out new sides. Today, I’m going to share my top twelve picks for the best sides for fajitas.

What to Serve with Fajitas

  1. Spanish Rice
  2. Salad
  3. Mayan Couscous
  4. Fresco Salsa
  5. Traditional Mexican Guacamole
  6. Avocado and Black Bean Dip
  7. Refried Beans
  8. Grilled Avocados
  9. Mexican Street Corn
  10. Black Beans and Rice
  11. Mexican Rice
  12. Mexican Quinoa
  13. Chorizo Con Papas
  14. Cilantro Tomato Corn Salad
  15. Spicy Roasted Potatoes

Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a great side dish for fajitas because it’s so flavorful and filling. The rice is cooked with garlic, onion, tomatoes, and spices, which gives it a rich flavor that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas. Plus, the rice is a great way to bulk up the meal and make it more filling.

When I make Spanish rice, I like to use brown rice for an extra nutritional boost. Brown rice is higher in fiber and nutrients than white rice, and it has a nutty flavor that I love.

To make the best Spanish rice, be sure to cook the rice in chicken or beef broth instead of water. This will give the rice more flavor and make it moister.

Salad

A salad is a great way to lighten up a meal. But, a fresh salad with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing can also be a great way to add flavor and texture to fajitas.

If you’re wondering what type of salad to make, here are a few suggestions:

  1. Avocado salad
  2. Cucumbers and tomato combo salad
  3. Caesar salad with shrimp
  4. Chopped salad with cilantro lime vinaigrette
  5. Mexican slaw

I love pairing any of these types of salad with my fajitas because they give the meal a bright, fresh flavor. And, they’re all wonderful ways to get my daily dose of vegetables.

Additionally, the dressing on the salad can help to balance out the flavors of the fajitas. A light vinaigrette or citrus dressing is a great option.

Mayan Couscous

Mayan couscous is a type of pasta that is made from corn flour and spices. It has a unique flavor that pairs well with the bold flavors of fajitas.

This is a great option for those who are looking for a gluten-free side dish. The health benefits of corn make it a great choice for those looking to add more whole grains to their diet.

To cook Mayan couscous, simply simmer it in water or broth until it is tender. Then, fluff with a fork and serve.

Fresco Salsa

Fresco salsa is a type of salsa that is made with fresh ingredients. It’s usually made with tomatoes, onions, coriander, and lime juice.

This salsa is a great side dish for fajitas because it’s full of fresh flavor. And, the acidity from the lime juice helps to balance out the flavors of the meal.

Traditional Mexican Guacamole

I love this side dish because it’s so flavorful and fresh. The avocado provides a creaminess that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas. And, the lime juice gives it a bright, tangy flavor.

To make traditional Mexican guacamole, simply mash an avocado with a fork. Then, stir in diced onion, diced tomato, fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Season to taste with salt, garlic, and pepper.

Avocado and Black Bean Dip

This dip is a great option for those who want a hearty side dish. It’s made with black beans, avocado, and spices.

I love this dip because it’s full of protein and healthy fats. And, the avocado gives it a creamy texture that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas.

Refried Beans

Refried beans are a type of bean that is mashed and then fried. They’re a popular side dish in Mexican cuisine.

I love refried beans because they’re so flavorful and filling. The beans are usually cooked with onions, garlic, and spices. This gives them a rich flavor that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas.

To make the best-refried beans, be sure to use fresh beans. And, don’t forget to add a little bit of fat, such as lard or bacon grease, to the pan when you fry them. This will give the beans a rich flavor and a smooth texture.

Grilled Avocados

Now, this side dish is for those who really love avocados. Grilled avocados are a great way to add creaminess and flavor to fajitas.

My favorite thing about grilled avocados is that they have a smoky flavor that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas.

Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn is a type of grilled corn that is coated in a creamy sauce. It’s popular street food in Mexico.

This side dish is so flavorful and filling. The corn is usually cooked with mayonnaise, sour cream, spices, and cheese. This gives it a rich flavor that pairs well

Black Beans and Rice

Beans and rice is a popular side dish in Mexican cuisine. It’s also a wonderful method to increase your protein and fiber intake.

I love black beans and rice because it’s so filling and flavorful. The rice is usually cooked with onions, garlic, and spices. This gives it a rich flavor that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas.

Mexican Quinoa

Yes, quinoa is a type of grain, but it’s so versatile. I love to use it in place of rice when I’m making Mexican dishes.

Mexican quinoa is a great side dish for fajitas because it’s full of protein and fiber. And, it has a nutty flavor that pairs well with the grilled meats and vegetables in fajitas.

Whenever you are serving quinoa, be sure to add some lime juice. This will give it a bright flavor.

Chorizo Con Papas

This one is special, not just because it’s delicious but because it was my late grandmother’s favorite recipe. Chorizo con papas is a type of potato dish that is made with chorizo, potatoes, and spices.

Apart from honoring my grandmother’s memory, I love this dish because it’s so flavorful and hearty.

If you want to make the best chorizo con papas, be sure to use fresh chorizo. And, don’t forget the potatoes. I like to use Yukon gold potatoes because they’re so creamy and delicious.

Cilantro Tomato Corn Salad

This is a very refreshing side dish that is perfect for summertime. It’s a salad that is made with fresh tomatoes, corn, fresh basil, red onion, cilantro, and lime.

I love this salad because it’s so light and flavorful. The tomatoes and corn are in season during the summertime which makes them extra delicious.

Spicy Roasted Potatoes

These days, nobody can resist a good roasted potato. And, these potatoes are extra special because they’re coated in a spicy seasoning.

If you’re looking for a little bit of spice in your life, then these roasted potatoes are for you. They’re the perfect side dish for fajitas.

A list of other Options

Vegetable Side Dishes

  • Salad
  • Grilled Peppers
  • Spicy Roasted Zucchini
  • Garlic Cauliflower
  • Mexican Pickled Carrots

Rice and Starchy Side Dishes

  • Spanish Rice
  • Mexican Street Corn
  • Black Beans and Rice
  • Mexican Rice
  • Roasted Potatoes
  • Mexican Quinoa
  • Mayan Couscous
  • Spicy Roasted Potatoes

Miscellaneous Side Dishes

  • Fresco Salsa
  • Traditional Mexican Guacamole
  • Avocado and Black Bean Dip
  • Refried Beans
  • Grilled Avocados
  • Chorizo Con Papas
  • Cilantro Tomato Corn Salad
  • Sweet Corn Tomalito
  • Instant Pot® Chicken Posole Verde
  • Jeff’s Chili Con Queso
  • Green Tomato Soup
  • Hominy Casserole

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fajitas healthy for a diet?

Fajitas can be a part of a healthy diet. The key is to watch the amount of oil and sodium that you’re consuming.

Do you eat fajitas with cheese?

It’s not traditional to eat fajitas with cheese. However, some people like to add shredded cheese to their fajitas.

What type of tortillas are used for fajitas?

There are many different types of tortillas that can be used for fajitas. The most common type is the flour tortilla.

Conclusion

There is nothing like a good Tex-Mex meal. The flavors are complex and spicy, and the combination of textures is always a delight.

Fajitas is not an exception. What we see here is a meal that is traditionally composed of a few simple ingredients that are combined to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.

The great thing about fajitas is that they can be made with any type of protein, whether it be chicken, beef, shrimp, or even tofu. And, there are endless possibilities when it comes to sides.

In this article, we’ve explored some of the best side dishes for fajitas. From salads to rice dishes to roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone. So, the next time you’re making fajitas, be sure to try one of these sides. You won’t be disappointed.

Andrew

Chef