What To Serve With Carne Asada ( 7 Yummy Sides to Try )
I was scrolling through Pinterest, looking for recipe ideas for my upcoming cookout, when I happened to see a pin for what to serve with carne asada. I clicked on it and started reading the article. But as you would probably guess, the options weren’t that great.
So, I decided to do my own research and figure out the best side dish recipes for carne asada. To do so, I’ve had to try a lot of different recipes and cooking techniques.
But I eventually came up with the best side dish recipes that I think will go great!
What To Serve With Carne Asada
- Quesadillas
- Pinto Beans
- Mexican-Style Cornbread
- Salsa
- Fresh Guacamole Sauce
- Elote
- Beans With Rice
Quesadillas
While carne asada is traditionally served with rice and beans, there are a variety of other side dishes that can complement this flavorful dish. One option is quesadillas.
Quesadillas are a type of Mexican sandwich made with tortillas and cheese. They can be served either plain or with a variety of fillings, such as meat, vegetables, or beans.
Quesadillas are a suitable side dish for carne asada because they are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit any taste. In addition, they offer a contrast in texture and flavor to the hearty carne asada.
Quick Recipe: Quesadillas
- Ingredients: Flour tortillas, shredded cheese, cooked chicken (optional), bell peppers (optional)
- Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Instructions:
- Place a tortilla on a hot skillet.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese and optional ingredients like cooked chicken or bell peppers.
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are a delicious side dish that can be enjoyed with many different meals. When paired with carne asada, they help to create a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
The beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, both of which are essential for a healthy diet. In addition, they are low in fat and calories, making them a great choice for those watching their weight.
Pinto beans can be prepared in a variety of ways, and they can be enjoyed either hot or cold. For the best results, cook the beans until they are tender but still firm, and then add your favorite seasonings.
Quick Recipe: Pinto Beans
- Ingredients: Canned pinto beans, garlic, onion, cumin, salt, pepper
- Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Instructions:
- Sauté garlic and onion in a pot.
- Add pinto beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Mexican-Style Cornbread
When it comes to choosing the perfect side dish for your carne asada, look no further than Mexican-style cornbread. This delicious bread is packed with flavors that complement the smokiness of grilled steak perfectly.
Cornbread also has the advantage of being a relatively hearty side, which means it can stand up to heartier entrees without getting lost in the shuffle.
Best of all, Mexican-style cornbread is incredibly easy to make. Simply mix some cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, and then stir in some milk and eggs. Add some butter to the batter, pour it into a hot pan, and you’re done.
Quick Recipe: Mexican-Style Cornbread
- Ingredients: Cornmeal, flour, baking powder, eggs, milk, canned corn, jalapeños, cheddar cheese
- Average Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix cornmeal, flour, and baking powder.
- Add eggs, milk, corn, diced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar.
- Pour into a greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Salsa
Salsa is a common side dish for carne asada. It can be used as a condiment, topper, or dipper. Salsa is also a good source of vitamins A and C, and it is low in calories.
One benefit of using salsa as a side dish for carne asada is that it can help to cut down on the fat content of the meal. Salsa is also a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate digestion.
Additionally, salsa adds flavor and texture to the dish. When choosing a salsa to use as a side dish for carne asada, it is important to select one that compliments the flavors of the meat.
For example, if the carne asada is spicy, a milder salsa would be a good choice. Conversely, if the carne asada is mild, a spicier salsa would be a good option.
Quick Recipe: Salsa
- Ingredients: Tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, pepper
- Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Instructions:
- Chop tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
- Mix with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Fresh Guacamole Sauce
There are a few cases where using fresh guacamole sauce as a side dish for carne asada can be beneficial.
First of all, the sauce can help to moisten the meat and keep it from drying out.
Second, the sauce can add a touch of flavor to the dish that may be otherwise bland.
Finally, the sauce can provide a bit of texture contrast, making the dish more interesting to eat.
When choosing a recipe for carne asada, be sure to select one that compliments the flavors of the sauce. For example, a recipe with cumin and chili powder would pair well with the smooth, creamy texture of guacamole.
Quick Recipe: Fresh Guacamole Sauce
- Ingredients: Avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, pepper
- Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Instructions:
- Mash avocados in a bowl.
- Add chopped onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well.
Elote
Elote, or Mexican grilled corn, is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be used with a variety of main courses. For example, it pairs well with carne asada, a grilled steak that is popular in Mexican cuisine.
The benefits of using elote as a side dish are numerous. First, it adds flavor and texture to the steak. Second, it is a healthy option, as it is low in fat and calories.
Third, it is easy to prepare and can be made in advance. Finally, elote is a suitable side dish for a variety of recipes, including carne asada tacos and carne asada burritos.
In terms of comparisons with other side dishes, elote is a healthier option than fried potatoes or refried beans. It also has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other side dishes such as rice or salad.
Quick Recipe: Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
- Ingredients: Corn on the cob, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, chili powder, lime
- Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Instructions:
- Grill corn until charred.
- Slather with mayonnaise and roll in crumbled Cotija cheese.
- Sprinkle with chili powder and a squeeze of lime.
Beans With Rice
While beans and rice are commonly thought of as a side dish, they can be a great addition to a variety of main courses. For example, beans with rice are a perfect side for carne asada.
The hearty flavors of the beans complement the rich taste of the meat, and the rice helps to soak up any extra grease.
Additionally, beans with rice are a highly nutritious dish. The beans are packed with protein and fiber, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates. This makes it a perfect option for those looking for a balanced meal.
Finally, beans with rice are extremely versatile. It can be made using different types of beans and spices, and it can be served either hot or cold. As a result, it can be paired with a wide variety of recipes.
Quick Recipe: Beans With Rice
- Ingredients: Cooked rice, canned black beans, garlic, onion, cumin, salt, pepper
- Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Instructions:
- Sauté garlic and onion in a pot.
- Add rice, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until rice is tender or ready
- Serve
Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing What To Serve With Carne Asada
What are some good side dishes for carne asada?
There are a variety of good side dishes for carne asada. Some popular options include salsa, guacamole, elote, and beans with rice.
What is the best way to choose a side dish for carne asada?
When choosing a side dish for carne asada, it is important to consider the flavors of the meat. For example, if the carne asada is spicy, a milder salsa would be a good choice. Conversely, if the carne asada is mild, a spicier salsa would be a good option.
What are some common mistakes people make when choosing a side dish for carne asada?
One common mistake people make when choosing a side dish for carne asada is selecting a dish that is too heavy. This can overwhelm the flavors of the meat and make the meal less enjoyable.
Another common mistake is choosing a side dish that does not complement the flavors of the carne asada. For example, pairing a sweet salsa with a spicy carne asada can result in an unpleasant flavor.
What are some tips for choosing a side dish for carne asada?
Some tips for choosing a side dish for carne asada include considering the flavors of the meat and selecting a dish that is not too heavy.
Additionally, it is important to choose a side dish that will complement the flavors of the carne asada.
How do I know if a side dish is too heavy for carne asada?
A good rule of thumb is to avoid side dishes that are high in fat and calories. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the side dish does not overpower the flavors of the carne asada.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to serve with carne asada, there are a variety of delicious and easy options. By considering the flavors of the meat and choosing a dish that is not too heavy, you can create a perfect pairing.
So go ahead and try out a few of these options at your next grill out! Your guests will be sure to enjoy the fantastic flavors.
What To Serve With Carne Asada ( 7 Yummy Sides to Try )
Ingredients
- Quesadillas
- Pinto Beans
- Mexican-Style Cornbread
- Salsa
- Fresh Guacamole Sauce
- Elote
- Beans With Rice
Instructions
- Choose your preferred recipe
- Prepare the ingredients needed to complete the recipe
- Prepare your side dish