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    Home » Mexico » Sides for Shrimp Tacos

    Sides for Shrimp Tacos

    Published on Jan 16, 2024 Modified: Jan 12, 2024 by Alexandria Drzazgowski.

    Shrimp Tacos are an incredibly easy and quick weeknight meal to throw together but with a flavor that tastes like takeout. Take this simple dish to the next level by pairing it with any of these 30 side dishes!

    Top view of shrimp tacos with cilantro garnished on top and half an avocado on the side.

    Shrimp Tacos are one of my favorite meals to cook for a quick weeknight dinner on a Taco Tuesday. In less than 30 minutes you can cook up some flavorful shrimp, toss it in a warm tortilla and cover it with your favorite sauces or toppings. It’s truly a dish anyone can love!

    But Shrimp Tacos are also great for a taco night when you have a bit more time to cook or when you are entertaining guests. Those are the nights when you can take this simple dish and dress it up with a dinner table full of delicious sides.

    Shrimp Tacos are an amazing choice for entertaining. Not only can your guests customize their tacos to fit their preferences but there is also a wide variety of Mexican cuisine that perfectly compliment the meal. 

    Keep reading for a list of my favorite sides to serve with the best Shrimp Tacos.

    Jump to:
    • FAQs
    • Favorite Recipes
    • Expert Tips
    • What Can You Serve With Tacos de Camaron?
    • Recipes to Serve with Shrimp Tacos
    • Pineapple Salsa Recipe
    • Homemade Pico de Gallo
    • Elote Loco
    • Homemade Guacamole Recipe
    • Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans
    • Quinoa Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta Cheese
    • Instant Pot Coconut Rice
    • Easy Queso Dip Recipe
    • Mexican Street Corn Salad
    • Instant Pot Charro Beans
    • Grilled Shishito Peppers
    • Bang Bang Sauce
    • Mexican Potatoes
    • Aji Verde Sauce
    • Chili Lime Rice Recipe with Jalapeno
    • Green Rice (Arroz Verde)
    • Coconut Milk Rice with Red Beans
    • Ultimate Restaurant Style Salsa
    • Chipotle Coleslaw
    • Mexican Corn Pasta Salad with Tomatoes
    • Skillet Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
    • Nourishing Fiesta Salad Recipe
    • Cilantro Lime Sauce
    • Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips
    • Pickled Red Onion
    • Watermelon Mojito Salad
    • Healthy Homemade Coleslaw Salad
    • Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing
    • Purple Cabbage Slaw (no mayo!)
    • Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

    FAQs

    Three shrimp tacos served in grilled flour tortillas with lime wedges garnished on the side.
    How to Choose Your Shrimp

    Before you can cook up some amazing Shrimp Tacos, you first need shrimp! Picking out shrimp doesn’t have to be complicated. 

    You can usually easily find shrimp in the frozen food section and, honestly, frozen shrimp may be more fresh than the fresh shrimp. That’s because frozen shrimp are frozen and sealed very soon after being caught, while the shrimp sold fresh may have had quite a journey to get to the store.

    I love to keep a bag of frozen shrimp in the freezer, just in case I need a quick meal! Place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw or run them under cool running water.

    If you do decide to go with fresh, you need to decide which size you want. Any size will work for tacos but you may have to adjust your cooking time for larger shrimp.

    I usually like to use medium shrimp. This way I can fit a bunch into my pan at one time without overcrowding.

    Peeling and Deveining Shrimp

    Most of the time you have the option to purchase shrimp already deveined and peeled, and I would recommend going this route to save time. But if you need to peel and devein your shrimp, the process is easy.

    Hold your shrimp in one hand and firmly grab the shell with the other. Gently twist until the meat comes loose from the shell. You can also use a paring knife to gently separate the flesh from the shell.

    Use a knife to cut out the black vein along the top of the flesh.

    How to Store Shrimp Tacos

    Shrimp Tacos can be stored and eaten again the next day but I don’t recommend storing these tacos for several days. 

    To store, save each ingredient separately. Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and place cooked shrimp in an airtight container. Place all your toppings in their own containers.

    To enjoy your leftovers, heat up the tortillas in the microwave or in the oven. Shrimp can be microwaved or heated up in a pan on the stove for a minute or two. Be careful not to overcook your shrimp when you are trying to reheat it.

    What Do You Season Shrimp With for Shrimp Tacos?

    You can season your shrimp with a wide variety of spices. I recommend starting with a base of chili powder, garlic and cumin and building off those flavors. You might prefer to add some fresh cilantro or green onions. 

    Plenty of fresh lime juice will give your tacos a delicious fresh flavor. You could also add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some additional heat and serrano peppers for a flavor explosion. 

    Are Shrimp Tacos Better with Corn or Flour Tortillas?

    The type of tortillas you use is up to your personal preference. Many people like the soft texture and the durability of flour tortillas but corn tortillas are the more traditional choice.

    You may notice many restaurants serve tacos on two flour tortillas. This is because flour tortillas break easily and doubling up makes them sturdier. Another explanation is when you eat your taco and the filling falls out you can let the second tortilla catch it and enjoy a second taco!

    What do Mexicans Eat With Tacos?

    If you were to order tacos in Mexico many restaurants will bring out a tray of toppings to add to your tacos. The toppings may include fresh cilantro, cucumbers, pickled radish, cabbage, onions and a variety of different red and green salsas. 

    Most tacos in Mexico are not served with any fresh tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream or cheese but this may vary from one region or one restaurant to the next.

    How Many Tacos Should I Prepare Per Person?

    The number of tacos a person will eat in one sitting is totally up to the individual and the size of the tacos. In general you should plan for at least two tacos per person but if the tacos are smaller, like street tacos, your guests may want at least three.

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    Favorite Recipes

    1. These Tacos de Camaron are so simple to make and burst with Baja flavor!
    2. The garlic cilantro lime slaw on these tacos from Pinch of Yum takes the dish over the top!
    3. Just when you thought Shrimp Tacos couldn’t get any easier, you find this easy Shrimp Tacos recipe for 10-minute air fryer Shrimp Tacos. Yum!

    Expert Tips

    • Shrimp Tacos cook surprisingly fast. If you are making some for a crowd, prepare your toppings before you cook the shrimp so everything can be ready at the same time.
    • Frozen shrimp are easy to buy and easy to prepare. Don’t feel guilty about using frozen-over fresh!
    • Some so many delicious salsas and sauces go perfectly with shrimp, especially those that contain sweet fruits like pineapple or mango. Experiment with several to find your favorite!
    • Warm tortillas will be more flexible and hold onto more of your taco filling. Don’t forget this step!

    What Can You Serve With Tacos de Camaron?

    a close up of pineapple and corn salsa in a mixing bowl.

    Toppings: red or green salsa, pico de gallo, red onion, guacamole, jalapenos, sour cream or queso fresco, Tabasco sauce, hot sauce, cabbage slaw, Mexican coleslaw, red onions, fresh tomatoes, fresh pineapple salsa, creamy slaw, fresh mango salsa, avocado salsa, cotija cheese

    Sides: black beans, tortilla chips, cilantro lime rice, refried beans, spanish rice, tortilla soup, Mexican street corn salad, chiles rellenos, roasted corn, Mexican quinoa salad, white rice, jicama slaw, Mexican rice

    For a drink, you can never go wrong with a Pineapple Agua Fresca Recipe! A perfect Mexican drink to serve with your delicious tacos.

    Recipes to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

    Pineapple Salsa Recipe

    Pineapple corn salsa in a large mixing bowl with red onions, tomatoes, limes, and cilantro.
    This recipe is the perfect summer recipe. Enjoy it with tortilla chips on the beach, use it to top grilled salmon, or in a burrito bowl. This recipe is quick, light, and fresh!
    Read More

    Homemade Pico de Gallo

    Chip dipped in Pico de Gallo
    This recipe for Homemade Pico de Gallo will take you only a few moments to make at home! Soon enough, you will have a refreshing, healthy, and easy snack on your table, just ready for tacos, nachos, or anything else you could desire!
    Read More

    Elote Loco

    An ear of corn on a plate topped with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, worcestershire sauce, and cheese, making Elote Loco.
    This Salvadoran Street corn is perfect for a summer snack. Elote Loco is made with corn on the cob, mayonnaise, cheese, ketchup, mustard, and salsa negra.
    Read More

    Homemade Guacamole Recipe

    A scalloped bowl piled high with guacamole with tortilla chips in front of it.
    Guacamole is a simple dish, but it’s important to know how to make it perfectly. Read on for tips on picking the right avocado, eating your guac, storage tips, and more.
    Read More

    Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans

    Bowl of Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans
    These Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans are the perfect side dish. They’re warm, comforting, homey, healthy, and hands-off. Seriously, does a recipe get more perfect than that? The black beans cook in the Instant Pot alongside cumin, oregano, and more delightful spices. Soon enough you’ll have a bowl of delicious black beans, a staple in any Cuban cuisine!
    Read More

    Quinoa Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta Cheese

    Quinoa salad in a glass bowl mixed with red onions, cheese, and chickpeas.
    This Quinoa Salad with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Feta Cheese is a blend of pure deliciousness. This superfood makes an awesome base to a salad topped with a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It is healthy and perfect as either a side dish or a main course!
    Read More

    Instant Pot Coconut Rice

    Instant pot coconut rice served on a plate with diced mango pieces and cilantro served over the top.

    This perfect, fluffy instant pot coconut rice is the easiest way to switch things up from your usual rice. It has the best mild coconut flavor, uses simple ingredients, and cooks quickly in an instant pot.

    Read More

    Easy Queso Dip Recipe

    Top view of an easy queso dip served in a bowl and garnished with cilantro and hot sauce with diced fresh tomatoes.

    You only need a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes to make this foolproof homemade queso dip recipe. Below, I give you tips and queso topping suggestions.

    Read More

    Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Mexican corn street salad served in a bowl and garnished with cotija cheese.

    This Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe (also known as Esquites) is packed with fresh flavors and cotija cheese! This is the perfect side dish that turns the classic Mexican street food into a delicious and easy to make salad!

    Read More

    Instant Pot Charro Beans

    Instant pot charro beans in a bowl, ready to serve.

    These Instant Pot Charro Beans are the best side for so many types of main dishes! The smokey, somewhat spicy, chili-like flavor makes for a true comfort food that’s easy to make and fairly hands-off for most of the cooking time.

    Read More

    Grilled Shishito Peppers

    Grilled shishito peppers on a plate and served with a creamy dipping sauce in a small bowl.

    These Grilled Shishito Peppers come together in just 15 minutes with 4 simple ingredients and serve as a delicious appetizer or side dish!

    Read More

    Bang Bang Sauce

    Bowl of bang bang sauce with a spoon resting in it.

    This homemade bang bang sauce is mildly sweet, slightly spicy, and will take your shrimp, wings, and tacos from good to GREAT! Using only 5 ingredients, you probably have everything you need to make a batch right now.

    Read More

    Mexican Potatoes

    Crispy Mexican potatoes.

    These tasty little oven-baked Mexican potatoes are twice cooked, then tossed in a spicy flour and cornstarch coating to make each bite perfectly crispy. 

    Read More

    Aji Verde Sauce

    Aji verde sauce in a small bowl garnished with cilantro.

    Creamy, herby with just a bit of heat, this aji verde is bursting with fresh, lively flavor.

    Read More

    Chili Lime Rice Recipe with Jalapeno

    Dutch oven of chili lime jalapeno rice and limes garnished on top.

    The ever popular cilantro lime doesn’t quite get made the same in our house. We make this version of Jalapeno Lime Rice in this house. It takes your cilantro lime rice up a notch with a touch of heat. I prefer this over any other cilantro lime rice.

    Read More

    Green Rice (Arroz Verde)

    Spoon resting in a bowl of green rice or arroz verde.

    Green rice is a traditional Mexican side dish seasoned with fresh herbs and mild poblano peppers, giving it a distinctive flavor and beautiful green hue. This Mexican green rice recipe (Arroz Verde) pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats and seafood.

    Read More

    Coconut Milk Rice with Red Beans

    Belizean Rice and Beans in a pile on a plate surrounded by avocado and cilantro.
    This Belizean Rice and Beans recipe is a great way to change up your rice and beans flavor. The rice is cooked with coconut milk to give the dish a rich, tropical flavor. Serve this as a side with any protein for a yummy meal!
    Read More

    Ultimate Restaurant Style Salsa

    Bowl of restaurant style salsa with tortilla chips surrounding it.

    If you love Restaurant Style Salsa, also known as Salsa Roja, you will love this homemade salsa recipe! With this easy blender salsa recipe, you can enjoy the bold and authentic flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant salsa at home in just 20 minutes!

    Read More

    Chipotle Coleslaw

    Chipotle coleslaw served in a bowl.

    Traditional Coleslaw gets a makeover with a terrific smoky spicy homemade Coleslaw dressing! Chipotle Coleslaw is a great sandwich topper and BBQ side dish –  a summer staple for picnics, parties and barbecues.

    Read More

    Mexican Corn Pasta Salad with Tomatoes

    Bowl of Mexican corn pasta salad with tomatoes ready to enjoy.

    This Creamy Mexican Pasta Salad with Corn and Sun Dried Tomato Dressing is a comforting, creamy, and smoky dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture!  First, you get creaminess and depth, as well as smokiness and a hint of sweetness from the sun-dried tomato dressing.  Then you get freshness from the tomatoes and a burst of sweetness from the corn.  Finally a bite from the scallion and cilantro.  It’s the perfect comfort side dish or add beef, chicken, or shrimp and call it a meal! 

    Read More

    Skillet Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread

    Jalapeno cheddar cornbread in a skillet and ready to serve.

    Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread the perfect snack for the big game! Or to dip in your chili. Or to snack on while watching Netflix. Or whenever you want, actually. This cheesy cornbread is super delicious and satisfying. It comes together quickly and makes for easy snacking.

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    Nourishing Fiesta Salad Recipe

    Fiesta salad in a bowl with a wooden spoon resting on top.

    This fiesta salad recipe is filled with just a few simple ingredients, is easy to toss together, and is so flavorful! A delicious bottled dressing gives it an unexpected kick and makes for quick & easy prep. Add shredded chicken or sauteed ground beef if you want a high-protein, main dish salad.

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    Cilantro Lime Sauce

    Cilantro lime sauce served in a glass cruet.

    Make this cilantro lime sauce recipe easily and with just a few ingredients. It is the perfect complement to shrimp tacos or when used as a delicious dressing on your favorite leafy salad!

    Read More

    Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips

    Homemade baked tortilla chips next to a bowl of guacamole.

    You can make your own crunchy homemade tortilla chips that are crispy just like the deep-fried version, but make them completely in the oven. It’s easy to make crispy tortilla chips just like the ones at your favorite Mexican restaurants.

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    Pickled Red Onion

    Pickled red onions in a closed mason jar.

    Upgrade taste and flavor of your tacos, burgers, salads, and toast with easy to make refrigerator pickled red onion. Add a few slices of pickled red onion for bright, tangy, zippy flavor to any sort of Mexican dish.

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    Watermelon Mojito Salad

    Watermelon mojito salad served on a small plate.

    With the sweetness of watermelon, tangy feta, mint, and lime, this watermelon mojito salad is a fresh summer salad perfect for a picnic, potluck, BBQ, or easy dinner at home!

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    Healthy Homemade Coleslaw Salad

    Homemade healthy coleslaw salad in a bowl ready to serve.

    This homemade coleslaw salad recipe is easy to make and made with a healthy creamy dressing that’s made with yogurt instead of mayonnaise. A Fresh and refreshing healthy salad that is perfect for every occasion and better than store-bought. Ready in just 20 minutes.

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    Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing

    Mexican chopped salad drizzled with avocado dressing.

    Delicious vegan Mexican chopped salad with avocado dressing makes the perfect lunch salad or an easy side dish to any Mexican feast. This gluten-free salad is packed with fresh veggies, dietary fiber, and plant-based protein.

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    Purple Cabbage Slaw (no mayo!)

    Purple cabbage salad without mayo in a bowl to serve.

    This purple cabbage slaw is crunchy and super delightful. And the citrusy peanut butter dressing is so incredibly good that you’ll want to put it in all your salads – no kidding. Forget the mayo-laced coleslaw. You’ll not miss it one bit.

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    These Air Fryer Tortilla Chips are incredibly easy and delicious – they are warm, crunchy, and taste just like restaurant-style tortilla chips, but without all the fuss and excess oil. 

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