Breakfast tacos are a wonderful, customizable Tex-Mex option that can turn any morning into a flavorful experience. But the question arises—what are good sides for breakfast tacos? A well-chosen side dish can add variety and balance to the meal, enhancing the flavors of the tacos and making breakfast more filling and satisfying.
This guide provides a range of side dish options, from classic Mexican rice and beans to refreshing fruit salads and yogurt. Let’s dive into the best sides to serve with breakfast tacos to make your next meal unforgettable. For an extra burst of flavor, consider pairing your sides and tacos with a rich sauce, like cowboy butter, perfect for dipping. Here’s a cowboy butter recipe that’s easy to make and ideal for Tex-Mex dishes.
1. Classic Sides for Breakfast Tacos
Mexican Rice
Mexican rice is a go-to side dish for any Tex-Mex meal, breakfast tacos included. Made with rice, tomatoes, garlic, and spices, it brings a rich flavor and hearty texture that complements the soft, savory fillings in breakfast tacos. For an easy recipe, try this flavorful Mexican rice with garlic and spices, perfect for adding warmth and depth to your meal.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are another classic Tex-Mex side that pairs beautifully with breakfast tacos. Rich in protein and fiber, beans offer a creamy texture and earthy flavor that balance out the taco’s fillings. Serve them warm, and for an extra twist, top them with a sprinkle of cheese or fresh cilantro.
Breakfast Potatoes
Crispy breakfast potatoes are a fantastic, filling side for breakfast tacos. Diced potatoes seasoned with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika are easy to prepare and add a crunchy contrast to the tacos. You can serve them roasted, skillet-fried, or even as hash browns.
2. Fresh and Light Sides for a Balanced Breakfast
Fruit Salad
If you’re looking for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of breakfast tacos, a fruit salad is an excellent choice. Combine fresh fruits like pineapple, mango, berries, and oranges to create a colorful, vibrant side. Fruit brings natural sweetness and provides a burst of freshness to balance the richness of tacos.
Crunchy Banana Yogurt
Yogurt is a light and creamy side option that complements the bold flavors of breakfast tacos. Try this crunchy banana yogurt, which combines the smoothness of yogurt with the sweetness of bananas and the crunch of granola. This side dish is nutritious, easy to make, and adds a nice texture to your breakfast.
Avocado Salad
Avocado is a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, and an avocado salad makes a great side dish for breakfast tacos. Simply dice avocado, mix with tomatoes, onions, and a sprinkle of lime juice, and you’ve got a refreshing salad that enhances the creamy, savory elements of your tacos.
3. Protein-Packed Sides to Boost Nutrition
Black Beans
Black beans are a fantastic, protein-rich side that can be served either warm or cold. Seasoned with cumin, garlic, and a hint of lime, black beans are filling and packed with nutrients. They’re especially good with breakfast tacos if you’re looking for a side that adds both flavor and a substantial amount of protein.
Scrambled or Poached Eggs
If you want to increase the protein content of your breakfast, consider serving an extra side of scrambled or poached eggs. Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs pair well with breakfast tacos, especially if you’re making vegetarian tacos or simply want a heartier meal.
Quick Healthy Omelette
An omelette filled with vegetables or cheese can make an excellent side dish that complements breakfast tacos. Try this quick healthy omelette recipe for a nutritious, protein-packed side that’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to your tastes.
4. Sides for a Tex-Mex Breakfast Twist
Sweet Corn Cake
Sweet corn cake, also known as Mexican corn cake, is a slightly sweet and crumbly side that pairs well with breakfast tacos. Made with fresh corn, butter, and a touch of sugar, it offers a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors of the tacos.
Churros with Cinnamon Sugar
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, churros sprinkled with cinnamon sugar make a delightful side for breakfast tacos. They’re a little on the sweet side, so they’re perfect for balancing out the savory, spicy flavors in the tacos. Serve with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping.
Mini Pancakes or Waffles
For a fun Tex-Mex and American breakfast fusion, serve mini pancakes or waffles as a side dish with breakfast tacos. The fluffy texture and mild sweetness complement the tacos, especially if you include a few berries or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
5. Sauces and Salsas to Enhance Flavor
To elevate the taste of your breakfast tacos, try adding sauces and salsas as sides:
Cowboy Butter
Cowboy butter is a savory, slightly spicy sauce that pairs well with breakfast tacos. It’s easy to make and brings out the flavors of both meat and veggie fillings in tacos. Find the recipe for cowboy butter here.
Pico de Gallo
A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness and a little heat. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for topping breakfast tacos or serving on the side.
Guacamole
Creamy guacamole is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a rich, avocado-based dip. Its smooth texture and subtle flavor add depth to breakfast tacos, whether served on top or as a side for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best sides to serve with breakfast tacos?
Great sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, breakfast potatoes, fruit salad, and yogurt. These options add variety and complement the flavors of breakfast tacos.
2. Can I serve breakfast tacos with a side of eggs?
Absolutely! Scrambled or poached eggs make an excellent protein-packed side that complements the flavors of breakfast tacos.
3. Are there sweet sides that go well with breakfast tacos?
Yes, sweet sides like churros, mini pancakes, and Mexican corn cake are fun, flavorful options that add a unique twist to your breakfast spread.
4. What sauces go best with breakfast tacos?
Salsas like pico de gallo, guacamole, and cowboy butter are popular choices. These sauces add freshness, creaminess, and spice to complement the tacos.
5. Can I serve breakfast tacos with a light, healthy side?
Certainly! Fresh fruit salad, crunchy banana yogurt, or avocado salad are all healthy, light options that pair well with breakfast tacos.
6. Is Mexican rice a good side for breakfast tacos?
Yes, Mexican rice is a classic Tex-Mex side that complements the flavors of breakfast tacos beautifully.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to what are good sides for breakfast tacos, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer something classic like Mexican rice and beans, light and fresh options like fruit salad, or indulgent choices like churros, you can find a side dish to suit any breakfast taco spread.
For a balanced meal, consider pairing your breakfast tacos with protein-packed options like black beans, a healthy omelette, or even a light yogurt-based side. So next time you make breakfast tacos, mix and match from these sides to create a flavorful, satisfying Tex-Mex breakfast that everyone will love.