What To Serve With Enchiladas? 22 Ideal Add-Ons For You 2021

The question “what to serve with enchiladas” pops up in your mind when you want to change your taste with enchiladas because you’re tired of the classic tacos. However, you don’t know what side dishes can go with this delicious food?

In this post, I will give you 22 flavorful must-try side dishes that are perfectly served with your enchiladas! With my list, you won’t need to look any further. The most excellent “candidates” are right here for you now. I’m sure you will absolutely find the best ones in my collection!

22 Companions To Make Your Enchiladas A Party Queen!

My list will be divided into four sections: Salsa and dipping sauces, salads, rice dishes and other treats, and drinks! And here are my quick introductions:

Salsa & Other Dips

• Chips And Salsa
• Pico De Gallo (Fresh Salsa)
• Pineapple Salsa
• Guacamole
• Frijoles Refritos (Refried Beans)

Salad & Slaw

• Mexican Coleslaw
• Jicama with Mango Slaw
• Bell Pepper Salad
• Southwestern Quinoa Salad
• Ensalada de Nopales (Cactus Salad)

Rice

• Mexican Rice
• Saffron Rice
• Cilantro Lime Rice
• White rice

Drinks

• Hibiscus Lime Iced Tea
• Honey Mint Lemonade
• Paloma (Sparkling Grapefruit Cocktail)
• Indian Pale Ale
• Apple Cider Sangria

Other Treats

• Elote (Grilled Mexican Street Corn)
• Black Bean Soup
• Jalapeno Poppers

Are you ready for this enchiladas’ side dish-finding journey? I know you must have been in a hurry now. I won’t let you wait any longer. Let’s get started!

Salsa & Other Dips – Perfect Picks To Push Up The Flavor

Almost every Mexican dish is cemented with dipping sauces, especially Salsa. However, in my list today, not only do I suggest the three most savory salsas to go with enchiladas, but also two other savory dipping sauces!

1. Chips And Salsa

Nothing compares to traditional Mexican chips and salsa. With a combination of sour, spicy salsa and lightly salted tortilla chips, this dish is like an explosion of flavors!

Classic salsa is always the simplest but the best pick for enchiladas. All you need to do is combine chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers with some salt, sugar, and lime juice!

Trust me. Your enchiladas will taste a hundred times better!

2. Pico De Gallo (Fresh Salsa)

Pico de gallo is also another type of salsa. However, do not confuse them with traditional salsa. Although they have almost the same ingredients, their textures are very different.

While traditional salsa has a more liquid texture that can be cooked or uncooked, pico de gallo has a denser and chunky texture. In addition, pico de gallo’s ingredients will always be fresh, uncooked, and prepared with a knife instead of putting into the blender.

From the outside, pico de gallo looks more like a salad than a dipping sauce.

3. Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa? Looks crazy. But don’t get me wrong, I’m talking about you! Yep, this salsa might drive you crazy with its fresh taste and vibrant appearance!

With just one glance, I bet you’ll fall in love with this pineapple salsa at first sight! The blend of striking, eye-catching colors from pineapples, red bell peppers, cilantro, jalapenos, and red onions will make you drool even if you have not tried it.

And what about after trying them out? I have to tell you: Perfect! The sour, sweet, spicy flavor of this salsa will bring more freshness to your enchiladas. It is not a wrong choice!

4. Guacamole

When it comes to classic Mexican side dishes, how can you ignore guacamole? Like salsa, this is one of those quintessential dips accompanying many famous Mexican dishes, including enchiladas!

Guacamole will be a perfect match when it meets enchiladas. Add this dipping sauce to your movie night menu. The sweetness and richness of the avocado, along with the slight saltiness of the enchiladas, this iconic pair will please all your beloved friends!

Plus, if you don’t mind, add tortilla chips to round out the flavor.

5. Frijoles Refritos (Refried Beans)

Refried bean is a Mexican dip made mainly from pinto beans. However, depending on each region and individual preferences, the main bean ingredient of this side dish can also be from other kinds of beans such as black, Peruano, or red kidney beans.

Full of flavor with a thick texture, I’m sure this dipping sauce will be an impeccable companion to your enchiladas.

What? You say they’re too fat because they’ve been “refried”? No no no! In the Spanish name of refried bean, refried is “frijoles,” which means “well-fried,” not fried twice. So feel free to add them to your menu!

Creamy refried beans could be the one. You can see this video to know more:

Salad & Slaw – Fresh Energies To Your Meal

Salad and slaw? Yes, it’s a must-have side dish in your meal with enchiladas! Here I will tell you five fresh and delightful salads you can not miss in your enchiladas night!

1. Mexican Coleslaw

What can balance the richness and creaminess of enchiladas than Mexican coleslaw? I mean, the crispness of the cabbage, the sourness of apple cider vinegar, and the aromatic smell of cilantro. Mexican Coleslaw is a refreshing, healthy salad for your greasy party.

This salad is Mexico’s version of cabbage salad, but they’re much more than that. They include not only cabbage but also thinly sliced carrots, jalapeno pepper, red onions, cumin, etc.

Don’t you believe me? Then try it now. This symphony will be a hit to your taste!

2. Jicama With Mango Slaw

Mangoes and enchiladas? It sounds like there’s not any connection between them, but you are wrong! Mango jicama slaw will be the side dish that breaks your prejudices!

With the sweet taste of jicama and the mild sourness of mango, this fresh salad and rich enchiladas will make your day. You ask me what jicama is? Well, you probably won’t find them at a normal supermarket. Let’s go to the Asian market. You will easily find them.

You didn’t hear it wrong. This vegetable is also very popular in Asian cuisine.

Note: When buying mango, remember not to choose ripe mangoes. Look for a slightly firm mango instead!

3. Bell Pepper Salad

Do not be afraid. It is not as spicy as you think! In contrast, bell peppers are mildly sweet peppers, though they still have a slight hint of chili flavor inside.

Buy all three colors of bell pepper (red, green, yellow), and they will make your salad look more vibrant. Then, cut the bell peppers into strips, mix them with other ingredients. You will have a light spicy and fresh bell pepper salad!

Moreover, remember to add a pinch of garlic salt to enhance the flavor. You will have a delicious side dish.

4. Southwestern Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a granular plant. They look like grains, but they’re not actually in the grain’s family. Quinoa is rich in protein and fiber.

Mexicans use Quinoa in many of their recipes. You would think they are more suitable as a main course, right? But in fact, they are also used to make salads! And actually the Southwestern quinoa salad would be my second pick in my next-coming dinner (after chips and salsa).

The Southwestern quinoa salad will provide you with a significant amount of protein. If you eat them with enchiladas, your stomach will be full for the whole day. But don’t worry, drink a cup of honey lemon tea after eating. It will be beneficial for your body’s digestion.

5. Ensalada De Nopales (Cactus Salad)

Ensalada de Nopales, is  also known as Cactus salad. This is the ultimate Mexican salad.

The main ingredient of this salad is nopales – a Mexican superfood. Nopales is a type of cactus, grown for its leaves and fruit. They are rich in vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients; so they are usually used as a healthy cooking ingredient.

If you want a salad that’s new and different but still goes well with your enchiladas, give Ensalada de Nopales a chance! You won’t be disappointed. I guarantee.

You haven’t tried cactus salad before? If not, what are you waiting for? You can see this video to know more:

Double The Nutrients With Delicious Rice Dishes 

Rice is an indispensable food in almost every Mexican meal. In addition, it actually goes really well with other Mexican food, including Enchiladas. Here, let’s look at my picks below of 4 best rice dishes!

1. Mexican Rice

When it comes to rice-related dishes, of course, Mexican rice will be the best pick! This rice goes on almost every meal of Mexican families. It’s an indispensable beloved dish of many of my Mexican friends too.

Since this rice and enchiladas are the same Mexican food, they will be seasoned with similar condiments. As a result, it supports each other’s flavors without turning them into disjointed textures.

With just some garlic, carrots, peas, and tomato sauce, you’ve got delicious and nutritious rice that can be served with enchiladas.

2. Saffron Rice

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. It’s actually the pistil of the Crocus sativus flower. Since the harvesting process is done manually, their prices are incredibly high. However, for all its culinary and medicinal value, saffron is well worth it!

What? You say you don’t have money to buy them? Come on. To cook this saffron rice, you only need a small amount of saffron to give the rice an attractive red color. Moreover, the fragrant flavor of saffron mixed with minced onions and bell peppers will absolutely make your mouth water!

Note: If you decided to make this side this, invest in the qualified saffron! Go to a reputable spice merchant to buy it.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice

Good news for cilantro lovers here! The cilantro lime rice is absolutely for you (what about cilantro haters? Check out Mexican rice and Fiesta saffron rice!).

Despite its simple ingredients, cilantro lime rice is irresistibly delicious. Cilantro goes especially well with fried garlic and lemon juice when cooking them with rice. On the other hand, a little spicy taste from red pepper flakes will also make you want more and more!

I love cilantro! So you all can understand why this rice dish will be completely on the menu with enchiladas in my family’s upcoming dinner!

4. White Rice

If you want a side dish that is starchy but simple and not too greasy, steamed white rice is here to meet your needs!

Depending on your preference, you can choose long grain rice or round grain rice. Then, carefully wash the rice. DON’T skip this step! Otherwise, your rice will have a strange smell after cooking.

After washing the rice, add water (each type of rice will need a different amount of water). Finally, put it in the rice cooker. You will have a delicious bowl of white rice in just 30 minutes!

Note: If you don’t have a rice cooker, go to buy them now! It is a “super secretary” in Asian rice cooking!

Don’t know how to cook rice? This detailed guidance will lead you.

Drinks – A Perfect Dot For Your Enchiladas Night

I’m sure you’re also looking for a delicious drink for your enchiladas, right? My list of drinks below will satisfy all of you as it includes basic drinks from tea, juice, cocktail to beer and wine!

1. Hibiscus Lime Iced Tea

After a full and rich enchiladas dinner, I personally would prefer a refreshing floral or fruity tea instead of any other beverage. And for me, the perfect pick is hibiscus lime iced tea.

This drink I first enjoyed at a friend’s house. Her mother was an excellent bartender. While I was there, she invited me to hibiscus lime iced tea she made herself.

It is a drink with a combination of hibiscus flowers’ aroma and the slight flavor of lime. This drink is definitely a match of enchiladas. It will dispel the fatty feeling stuck in your throat, refreshing you after a heavy meal.

2. Honey Mint Lemonade

Will you get into trouble with sleeping if you drink tea at night? Then honey mint lemonade completely belongs to you.

The sourness of lemonade, like lime, will remove the fat of enchiladas and its accompaniments. Moreover, the sweet taste of honey will calm the acid in lemonade, creating a pleasant feeling for your stomach. And what’s more refreshing than mint?

Save the recipe for this drink right now. You won’t regret this!

3. Paloma (Sparkling Grapefruit Cocktail)

You just want a cocktail? No problem. Enjoy a cup of Paloma after finishing your enchiladas! This cocktail is also very easy to make because its ingredients are very simple.

Paloma is a light alcoholic drink because it contains tequila. In addition, the other two main ingredients of this drink are lime juice and a grapefruit-flavored soda. The mild sour taste with a little bit of gas will keep you hooked!

I also have a little trick for you: add salt around the rim of the glass to enhance the flavor of Paloma.

Paloma will absolutely blow your mind! You can see this video to know more:

4. India Pale Ale

I know there are thousands of fantastic beers in the world. However, today I would like to recommend you Indian pale ale.

Indian pale ale is a light beer with a very distinct  bitter taste. When sipping Indian pale ale, you can also feel the piney, earthy, floral, and citrus flavors.

With an alcohol content of 4.5–20%, Indian pale ale is not too strong, which is suitable for gatherings. And most importantly, to me, it is an ideal partner for enchiladas!

5. Apple Cider Sangria

Those who are familiar with Spanish cuisine will certainly hear about Sangria. This is a drink made from red wine and fruit.

In Spanish, sangria means bloodletting. I think maybe because of the color of red wine.

However, apple sangria is not traditional sangria. This drink is made from fruit (apple, orange, pomegranate), apple cider, and white wine. White wine is not the dominant ingredient. In other words, it won’t get you drunk after the meal with enchiladas.

Other Treat – Diverse Your Enchiladas Flavor

Excluding salsa and salad, don’t be afraid to add other tasty side dishes. They will not put your enchiladas down but diversify your enchiladas flavor instead! And here will be my three options.

1. Elote (Grilled Mexican Street Corn)

In addition to rice dishes, corn is also a great pair with enchiladas. Try to make elote! This Mexican street corn is a strong shot with a combination of the sweetness of corn, and the richness of sour cream, cheese, mayo.

Not over yet, a little guajillo chile powder and the sourness of lemon juice will turn this dish into a street masterpiece.

Although it’s considered street food, elote can almost be eaten with many Mexican dishes. And enchiladas are no exception as well.

2. Black Bean Soup

Black Bean Soup is a soft, creamy, and easy-to-make soup. Moreover, this soup is also made with simple ingredients that I’m sure you already have in your kitchen! Prepare black beans, onions, carrots, garlic, and if you like, bell peppers also.

This nutritious hot soup goes well with enchiladas during cozy dinners with the gathering of all family members. I’m sure everyone in your family will absolutely love it.

Oh, I almost forgot to give you this tip: Crunchy tortilla chips are also a good pair to make this soup more flavorful.

3. Jalapeno Poppers

This is the last enchiladas that I want to recommend to you, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t taste as good as the ones above. Conversely, its taste will probably make you want it again, again and again!

This dish includes Jalapeno peppers, commonly used in Mexican recipes, and cheese as the main ingredients. In addition, it is covered with a layer of crispy panko on the top.

After being removed from the oven, their light spicy, greasy and cheesy scent will invade your kitchen. When you eat, cover them with cool ranch or blue cheese. I’m sure you’ll want to have more jalapeno poppers in your future meals.

Complete Your Enchiladas With These Amazing Side Dishes!

All the side dishes I have suggested to you are diverse and unique. Pick any of the recommendations above from my list if you haven’t found the right dips, salads, rice dishes, or drinks to go with enchiladas. You will love them as soon as you taste them!

Not only that, I’m sure your friends and family will also enjoy them. I’m honest.

And now, have you already found out the special treats for enchiladas from my list? Please let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to share if you have any recipes that can be a perfect pair with enchiladas!