The best sides for Burritos are Nachos, Tortilla Chips and Salsa, Black Bean and Corn Salad, Mexican Rice, and Mexican Bean Stew.
Nachos pairs well because it adds richness that rounds out the plate.
For a lighter option, try Mexican Bean Stew. Mexican Bean Stew is a lighter option if you want something less heavy on the table.
Oh, burritos. They're a hug wrapped in a tortilla, right?
Now, we've got them down pat, but what about their dance partners?
Those sides that improve the meal from great to epic.
Think less of a side dish sprint and more of a flavor marathon. Ready?
And maybe thirds. Who's counting, anyway?
Why Should You Consider Serving Side Dishes with Burritos?
Everybody loves burritos.
You can put anything in them if you are adventurous enough.
But why stop there?
Food is best in variety; that's why it is far more exciting to see an arrangement of dishes spread out than just a single pot.
One-pot meals can be great too, but why settle for that when you can have so much more?
Add excitement and more flavor to your meals with these side dishes you can serve along with burritos.
7 Perfect Side Dishes for Burritos
Here's a detailed answer with a table comparing the key characteristics of the 7 best side dishes to serve with Burritos:
| Side Dish | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Nachos | Crunchy and cheesy, offers a flavorful and indulgent accompaniment |
| Tortilla Chips and Salsa | Classic and versatile, provides a light and refreshing option |
| Black Bean and Corn Salad | Fresh and bright, adds a healthy and colorful element to the meal |
| Mexican Rice | Flavorful and aromatic, goes with the spices in the Burritos |
| Mexican Bean Stew | filling and satisfying, adds protein and fiber to the meal |
| Chili Con Carne | Spicy and savory, enhances the flavors of the Burritos |
| Mexican Coleslaw | Creamy and tangy, balances the richness of the Burritos |
Here is a closer look at each side dish in more detail:
1 - Nachos
Nachos are the most popular Mexican dish in the United States.
You can find them in every corner of the country, from restaurants to roadsides.
They are also one of the most loved stadium and theatre snacks.
You can turn this beloved snack into something a little homier and filling with just a little work.
All you have to do is spread the tortilla chips on a baking tray and grate cheese over them.
Then it's time to have some fun as you add whatever you like as a topping.
Here are some suggestions:
- Olives.
- Shredded Turkey.
- Shredded Chicken.
- Chopped tomatoes.
- Corn.
- Onions.
- Peppers.
2 - Tortilla Chips and Salsa
For an even quicker fix than nachos, you can make a salsa dip for tortilla chips.
Since burritos are finger food, tortilla chips are the perfect side dish.
This side will suit any occasion you need it for, from date night to sports events.
Salsa is healthy for you too, full of Vitamin C and other nutrients like potassium.
One of the best things about salsa dip is that you can make it in only 5 minutes if you have the ingredients on hand.
Salsa ingredients: tomatoes (fresh or canned), jalapenos, garlic, cilantro, onion, spices, and a sweetener like honey.
3 - Black Bean and Corn Salad
A good salad is a perfect side for almost any other dish.
Salads add freshness and zest to go with the savory and rich main dish.
We say that no meal is complete without a good salad to round it off.
Our choice of salad to serve with burritos is black bean and corn salad.
This salad has that zest you want from a Mexican meal, and the beans and corn make it filling.
This salad will leave you satisfied after eating.
A major bonus of this salad is that black beans are incredibly healthy for you.
Even though they are high in carbohydrates, they help regulate your blood sugar, making this an excellent choice for people with diabetes.
4 - Mexican Rice
Rice is a frequent side to pair with burritos and other Mexican foods.
Rice is one of the most beloved foods globally, and many cultures have their version of fried rice.
Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, will make a superb companion to burritos.
Just these two dishes can make a complete meal for your friends and family.
Mexican rice combines rice with onion, corn and tomato sauce for a well-rounded dish that is savory and nutritious.
5 - Mexican Bean Stew
If you hated beans as a child, even though your mother insisted you eat them, this stew might change your mind.
Mexican cuisine is famous for its use of beans, making their food as healthy as it is delicious.
Mexican Bean Stew is as healthy as food gets.
This dish is perfect for vegetarian diets, meaning anyone can enjoy it.
The main ingredients you will need are tomatoes and beans and various spices like garlic, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
Canned tomatoes and beans will make this easier to prepare.
6 - Chili Con Carne
When you think of Mexican food, Chili Con Carne may be a dish that pops into your head.
But, you may be surprised to know that it is actually the official dish of Texas.
Of course, it has its roots in Mexican cuisine, but many living in the southern United States have made it their signature dish.
With that kind of legacy, you can be sure that this Tex-Mex dish will be a hit with your guests.
7 - Mexican Coleslaw
If you are serving up burritos that have more than just a little heat in them, you need something to cool you off.
Coleslaw with a Mexican twist is one of the best sides you can serve with a spicy burrito.
Mexican Coleslaw is just like regular coleslaw, with a healthy cabbage base, just with a bit of added flavor in the dressing.
Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt 'n pepper, lime juice and a dash of honey to your sliced cabbage and carrots.
For an extra spicy kick, add some hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nachos is the most popular choice because it goes with the flavors and textures of Burritos without overpowering the plate. Most home cooks pick this because it adds contrast and rounds out the meal.
Look for sides with brightness or acidity to cut through richness. Nachos brings the right contrast.
A squeeze of citrus or a vinegar-dressed salad achieves a similar effect if you want something lighter.
A good side dish either contrasts or goes with the dominant flavor. If the main is rich and savory, something with acidity or crunch balances the plate without competing.
Can side dishes be swapped based on dietary needs?
Yes.
Most classic pairings have easy swaps - substitute roasted vegetables for grain sides, or use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb option.