Picture this: the sizzle of tender strips of meat, the charred whispers of bell peppers and onions, and that unmistakable aroma of Mexican spices wafting through your kitchen. You’ve nailed your fajitas night, but wait—what about the supporting cast? Sure, the fajitas are the showstopper, but even they need their talented co-stars.
That’s where sides come in! Now, if you’re wondering what to serve with fajitas, this article has got you covered! We’ve put together a list of 18 perfect accompaniments to take your fajita night from ordinary to fiesta-worthy.
From classic favorites to exciting new options, we’ve got something to satisfy every taste bud. So, read on and discover the perfect side dishes that will turn your fajita night into a fiesta.
What to Serve with Fajitas: 18 Delicious Sides
1. Avocado Salad
This creamy avocado salad is an exquisite contrast to the robust flavors of fajitas. Combining buttery avocados with the bright zest of lime, tomatoes, onions, and the freshness of cilantro, it cuts through the richness of grilled meats, adding a luxurious texture and refreshing taste to your plate.
2. Mexican Caesar Salad
Transform your fajita night with a Mexican Caesar Salad, blending traditional Caesar elements with bold Mexican flavors. Spicy croutons, cotija cheese, and a zesty chili-lime dressing mingle to complement the dynamic flavors of fajitas, adding a crunchy, creamy texture that’s irresistibly delicious.
3. Refried Beans
A staple in Mexican cuisine, refried beans are a hearty, comforting side that perfectly accompanies fajitas. Their creamy texture and rich, savory flavor profile act as an excellent backdrop to the vibrant tastes of your main dish. Quick to prepare, especially with our Instant Pot refried beans recipe, they’re a must-have at any fajita dinner.
4. Spicy Roasted Red Potatoes
Add a kick to your meal with spicy roasted red potatoes. Prepared in an air fryer for extra crispiness, these potatoes are seasoned with a blend of spices that complement the smoky flavors of fajitas. They’re a robust, satisfying side that brings a bit of heartiness to the meal.
5. Chili Con Queso
Delve into the creamy, spicy delights of chili con queso, a perfect dip for fajitas. It combines smooth, melted cheese with mild chilies to create a rich sauce that’s excellent for drizzling over sheet pan chicken fajitas or dipping tortilla chips, adding a velvety layer to every bite.
6. Cilantro Tomato Corn Salad
Meet the cilantro tomato corn salad—your fajita’s new best friend. With its bright colors and even brighter flavors, this salad adds a burst of summery freshness to your plate. Invigorated with aromatic cilantro, juicy tomatoes, and sweet corn, each bite is a flavor burst that’s bound to bring a smile to your face.
7. Pico de Gallo (Salsa Fresca)
Pico de Gallo, or salsa fresca, is a fresh, uncooked salsa made from chopped tomato, onion, cilantro, fresh serranos, salt, and lime juice. Its freshness enhances the fajitas by adding a crisp texture and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the meats, making each bite exciting and balanced.
8. Spanish Rice II
No fajita feast is complete without the quintessential Spanish Rice. Not just any rice, but the heralded Spanish Rice II, a beloved staple side dish that carries a warmth that can only be seasoned by tradition.
Its robust blend of tomatoes, onions, and peppers, cooked until perfectly fluffy, complements the smoky flavor of fajitas. It absorbs the juices and adds a warm, comforting element to each bite.
9. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice offers a light and aromatic side option, with the zesty flavors of lime and fresh cilantro brightening up the meal. This rice pairs beautifully with the bold spices of fajitas, providing a subtle citrus backdrop that enhances the overall flavors. Try our Instant Pot cilantro lime rice recipe to make preparation a breeze.
10. Avocado and Black Bean Dip
The Avocado and Black Bean Dip is a versatile and flavorful addition to any fajita spread. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it an ideal companion for grilled meats or a stand-alone star served with chips. High in fiber and packed with flavor, it’s a dip that keeps you coming back for more.
11. Classic Mexican Guacamole
Complete your fajita night with classic Mexican guacamole. Made with ripe avocados, this guacamole is naturally creamy and rich, enhanced with lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño for a little kick. It’s perfect for adding a cool, creamy texture to spice-laden fajitas, balancing the heat and enriching every bite.
12. Sweet Corn Tomalito
Sweet corn tomalito is a Tex-Mex favorite that pairs wonderfully with vegan fajitas. This steamed corn pudding, with its natural sweetness and soft texture, offers a comforting balance to the bold spices of your main dish.
13. Mayan Couscous
Explore the culinary delights of Mayan couscous, where Mexican flavors meet Middle Eastern textures. This couscous, perfect alongside beef fajitas, features a vibrant mix of spices and herbs, providing a hearty yet sophisticated side option. Check out our recipe for Lemon-Pistachio Israeli Couscous for a similar exotic twist.
14. Elote
Imagine the sound of corn grilling over an open flame, the aroma beckoning you to taste. Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a must-try with any fajita meal. Grilled to perfection and slathered in a tangy lime mayo, sprinkled with chili powder, and topped with cojita cheese, it’s a rich and flavorful dish that stands strong next to any fajita.
15. Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa adds a sweet and tangy element to your fajitas. With its chunks of juicy pineapple, fresh cilantro, and fiery jalapeños, it’s a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
16. Creamy Mexican Corn Dip
Dive into the indulgent world of creamy Mexican corn dip, a decadent blend of sweet corn, sour cream, and spices. This dip is not only a crowd-pleaser but also serves as a creamy counterpart to the zesty profiles of fajitas.
17. Cilantro Lime Slaw
Not just your ordinary coleslaw, this cilantro lime slaw features crunchy vegetables dressed in a tangy lime-infused yogurt dressing. It’s a refreshing side that adds a crisp texture and vibrant flavor to complement the richness of your fajitas.
18. Mexican Rice
For a side that’s hearty yet won’t overshadow your fajitas, plain Mexican rice offers the perfect complement. It offers a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meal, without overpowering the flavors of the fajitas.
Conclusion
As you’ve seen with this list, Fajita night doesn’t have to be the same old routine. With so many incredible side dishes to choose from, you can mix and match to create a brand new flavor adventure every single week.
Think creamy guacamole, refreshing pico de gallo, or hearty Spanish rice – the possibilities are endless! So, go on and try these dishes, and discover your new favorite sidekicks to turn your next fajita night into a full-on flavor explosion!
FAQ
Can I use these sides with other Mexican dishes?
Absolutely! Most of these side dishes are versatile and can be perfect pairings for your tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or any other Mexican-inspired meal.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options for fajita sides?
Of course! Guacamole is a crowd-pleaser, and grilled corn or a colourful Mexican slaw with black beans and avocado is healthy and flavorful.
I need some hearty options to fill everyone up. What are some good choices?
Classic Mexican rice or fluffy cilantro lime rice are filling and delicious. You can also try refried beans, roasted vegetables, or even a side of cheesy queso dip for dipping your tortillas.
I’m short on time. What are some quick and easy side dishes?
No problem! Open a can of corn and black beans, toss them with chopped tomatoes and cilantro, and voila – a simple side salad. Warmed store-bought refried beans or chopped fresh vegetables are also great time savers.
Are there any fajita sides that can also serve as an appetizer?
Definitely! Chili con queso is a luscious option that can double as an appetizer with chips. An avocado and black bean dip is another versatile choice that guests can enjoy before diving into the fajitas main course.
What are the best fajita sides for a barbecue or outdoor event?
At a barbecue, elote (Mexican street corn) is an absolute must-have. You might also want to serve an array of fresh salsas, like a hearty black bean salsa or a fruit-based one, which can hold up well outdoors and please a crowd.