Shrimp tacos are a delicious and versatile meal that can be enjoyed in many different ways. The key to pairing side dishes and drinks with shrimp tacos is complementing the flavors of the shrimp and other taco fillings. When choosing what to serve alongside shrimp tacos, you’ll want to consider sides that add color, texture, and freshness.
What proteins pair well with shrimp in tacos?
While shrimp are often the star of the show, you can mix in other proteins to make shrimp tacos heartier and more filling:
- Chicken – Grilled, shredded chicken pairs nicely with shrimp. Go for bold seasonings like cilantro-lime or chipotle.
- Steak – Thinly sliced flank or skirt steak gives a tasty contrast to plump shrimp. Marinate the steak in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder.
- Tofu – Diced and cooked crispy, tofu makes shrimp tacos more vegetarian-friendly. Toss it in the same seasoning as the shrimp.
- Beans – Black or pinto beans add fiber and protein. Drain and rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium.
In addition to another protein, you can serve shrimp tacos with any of the following:
Cheese
Melty cheese adds creaminess and richness to shrimp tacos. Popular choices include:
- Monterey Jack – Mild and melty, it complements the shrimp without overpowering their flavor.
- Cheddar – For a sharper flavor that stands up to spicy shrimp tacos.
- Pepper jack – With a kick of heat that mimics the Mexican seasonings.
- Queso fresco – A salty, moist cheese that crumbles nicely over the top.
Salsas and sauces
A dollop of salsa or sauce adds moisture and an extra flavor punch. Recommended options:
- Pico de gallo – A fresh salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime. Keeps the tacos feeling light.
- Guacamole – Cool, creamy avocado balances the shrimp’s texture nicely.
- Chipotle aioli – Smoky chipotle peppers whipped into garlicky mayonnaise.
- Green salsa – Made with tomatillos and green chiles instead of red tomatoes.
- Mango salsa – Sweet mango is a refreshing contrast to spicy shrimp.
Crunchy toppings
A sprinkling of crunchy toppings before serving brings texture and visual appeal. Recommended toppings include:
- Shredded cabbage – Provides color and refreshing crispness.
- Pickled red onions – Tart and tangy, they cut through the richness.
- Radish slices – Mild spicy bite and crisp crunch.
- Chopped cilantro – Fresh herb flavor and green color.
- Crumbled cotija cheese – Salty, dry Mexican cheese with great crunch.
- Crushed tortilla chips – Sturdy chips hold up to taco fillings.
- Avocado – Creamy, rich cubes add color and contrast.
What sides pair well with shrimp tacos?
Shrimp tacos pair great with fresh, colorful sides that don’t overpower their flavor. Here are some recommended options:
| Side Dish | Description | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish rice | Rice cooked with tomato sauce and spices | Works nicely with Mexican flavors |
| Coleslaw | Shredded cabbage and carrots in creamy dressing | Crunchy and fresh-tasting |
| Black bean salad | Black beans, corn, tomato, cilantro | Bold flavors and colors |
| Street corn salad | Grilled corn, red onion, cilantro, lime, chili powder | Smoky and spicy |
| Jicama salad | Thinly sliced jicama, mango, chili powder | Crunchy and mildly sweet |
If you want to serve shrimp tacos for a lighter meal, try sides like:
- Tomato salad – Cherry tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime
- Fruit salad – Pineapple, mango, jicama, chili-lime seasoning
- Cucumber salad – Thinly sliced cucumbers in vinaigrette
What kinds of drinks pair well with shrimp tacos?
When pairing drinks with shrimp tacos, you’ll want beverages that complement the tacos without overshadowing the seafood. Here are some excellent choices:
Margaritas
A classic margarita with lime juice, orange liqueur, and tequila nicely echoes the Mexican flavors in the tacos. Salted rim optional. For variety, try mango, strawberry, peach, or jalapeño margaritas.
Mexican beer
Crisp Mexican lagers like Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, or Dos Equis are very drinkable with shrimp tacos. Micheladas also work well – they’re like beer Bloody Marys seasoned with lime juice and chili sauce.
Tropical cocktails
Frozen piña colada or daiquiri cocktails complement the shrimp with their fruit flavors. Or try a mojito made with rum, mint, and lime.
Cola
Mexican Coke, made with real cane sugar, has a fuller flavor that stands up to the tacos. Jarritos makes excellent fruit-flavored sodas as well.
Horchata
This sweet rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon provides a nice contrast to spicy shrimp tacos.
Jamaica
An agua fresca made from dried hibiscus flowers, it has a tart cranberry-like taste that works well with shrimp.
Sparkling water
For an alcohol-free option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a splash of fruit juice. Good for palate cleansing between bites.
Putting it all together – sample menus
Using all the elements discussed above, here are some recommended complete shrimp taco menus:
Menu 1
- Shrimp tacos with pico de gallo
- Spanish rice
- Refried beans
- Margaritas
Menu 2
- Shrimp and steak tacos
- Coleslaw
- Guacamole
- Mexican beer
Menu 3
- Shrimp and black bean tacos
- Jicama salad
- Chips and salsa
- Jamaica agua fresca
With so many tasty fillings, toppings, sides, and drinks to choose from, the possibilities are endless for fantastic shrimp taco meals that take the flavors to the next level!
Conclusion
Shrimp tacos are endlessly versatile and pair well with a variety of flavors. Cheese, salsas, crunchy toppings, and sides like Spanish rice, street corn salad, and coleslaw complement shrimp taco fillings. Classic margaritas, Mexican beer, and fruity cocktails make excellent beverage choices. With the right combinations, you can create amazing shrimp taco meals that offer flavors, textures, colors, and creativity.