10 Simple Mexican-Inspired Side Dishes You Can Make Anytime

You don’t need a holiday or a big dinner party to enjoy bold, vibrant side dishes inspired by Mexican flavors. These simple recipes are easy enough to whip up on a weeknight, but flavorful enough to steal the spotlight on any table.

Whether you’re serving tacos, grilled meats, or just want something crave-worthy to pair with your usual go-to meals, these sides bring color, crunch, and a little heat to your plate.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

You’ll love this Mexican Street Corn Salad, packed with grilled corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and a zesty lime flavor. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked just like I was! This recipe is a breeze to whip up, and is even better if you make it in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat it.

Get the Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe.

Green Chili Rice

Green Chili Rice is a vibrant and aromatic side dish that combines fluffy rice with the zesty flavors of green chilies, fresh herbs, and spices. This versatile recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes, adding a delightful kick to your meal.

Get the Green Chili Rice recipe.

Shrimp Aguachile

Shrimp Aguachile is a vibrant and refreshing appetizer that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any festive occasion, especially Cinco de Mayo. This Mexican coastal dish features succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty lime and chili mixture, creating a deliciously tangy flavor profile.

Get the Shrimp Aguachile recipe.

Sombrero Chip & Salsa Display

This Sombrero Chip & Dip Platter is an easy way to add flair to your party while serving up a snack everyone loves. The sombrero creates a playful display, holding a variety of tortilla chips around the brim along with various bowls of salsa and guacamole. I think your guests will find it really creative and fun.

Get the Sombrero Chip & Salsa recipe.

Mexican Red Rice

Mexican Red Rice is an essential side dish for Mexican cuisine that’s made with a combination of onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and cilantro. The rice gets its vibrant red color and rich flavor from the tomato sauce it’s simmered in.

Get the Mexican Red Rice recipe.

Easy Refried Beans

This quick and Easy Refried Beans recipe is perfect for a healthy, meatless side dish for your favorite Mexican or Tex-Mex entrees. Though it might sound difficult to make, I assure you it isn’t. It’s really just mashed up pinto beans!

Get the Easy Refried Beans recipe.

Crunchy Mexican Street Corn Croquetas

Take everything you love about Mexican street corn—sweet, smoky corn, creamy cheese, and a kick of spice—and turn it into a crispy, golden-brown croquette! These Mexican Street Corn Croquetas are the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy, making them an irresistible appetizer or side dish.

Get the Mexican Street Corn Croquetas recipe.

Easy Guacamole

Packed with good monounsaturated fats and fiber, this Easy Guacamole recipe makes a healthy and irresistible snack that you can enjoy without feeling guilty. There’s nothing better than a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips. It’s the perfect snack for any occasion. 

Get the Easy Guacamole recipe.

Classic Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo is the perfect topping for any Mexican dish because of its fresh, vibrant acidity. Add it to burritos, tacos, even refried beans.

Get the Pico de Gallo recipe.

Classic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

A classic Mexican street food, Elote or Mexican Street Corn is charred on the grill, then slathered in mayo, and topped with tangy Cotija cheese, chili powder and cilantro. It’s like corn on the cob packed with joy and happiness.

Get the Mexican Street Corn recipe.