15 Best Sides for Fajitas You’ll Find Amazing
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
- Spanish Rice
- Salad
- Mayan Couscous
- Fresco Salsa
- Traditional Mexican Guacamole
- Avocado and Black Bean Dip
- Refried Beans
- Grilled Avocados
- Mexican Street Corn
- Black Beans and Rice
- Mexican Rice
- Mexican Quinoa
- Chorizo Con Papas
- Cilantro Tomato Corn Salad
- 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:
- Avocado salad
- Cucumbers and tomato combo salad
- Caesar salad with shrimp
- Chopped salad with cilantro lime vinaigrette
- 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.