10 Quick and Easy Mexican Side Dishes Your Kids Will Beg For!

Are you ready to bring the vibrant, zesty flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table? With these quick and easy Mexican side dishes, you’ll not only make your meals more exciting, but you’ll also have your kids asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds)! Mexican cuisine is full of bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and crunchy textures that kids love, and it’s easier than ever to whip up these family-friendly sides in no time. Whether you’re preparing a full Mexican feast or just looking to add a little something extra to your weeknight dinners, these recipes are sure to be a hit!

In this post, we’ll explore 10 delicious Mexican side dishes that your little ones will beg for. From cheesy Mexican rice to crispy taco night essentials, these dishes are packed with flavor but simple enough for any busy parent to make. So, let’s dive into the world of Mexican cuisine and discover how to spice up your next family dinner!

Spice Up Dinner Time with These Kid-Friendly Mexican Side Dishes

Mexican side dishes are the perfect way to elevate any meal, but finding ones that are both quick and kid-approved can be a challenge. Luckily, the following dishes are designed with simplicity and kid-friendly flavors in mind. Say goodbye to boring sides, and say hello to meals that your whole family will love!

These side dishes are more than just add-ons to your main course. They bring out the essence of Mexican cuisine, featuring ingredients like cheese, beans, corn, and rice — all wrapped up in delicious, easy-to-prepare recipes. Whether your kids are picky eaters or food adventurers, these Mexican side dishes will keep them coming back for more.

Cheesy Mexican Rice: A Creamy Delight Your Kids Won’t Resist

Who doesn’t love a cheesy, creamy bowl of rice? Mexican rice is a staple side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course, and when you add some gooey melted cheese, it becomes downright irresistible. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with kid-approved flavors, and the best part? It’s super easy to make.

To get started, you’ll need long-grain rice, chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and plenty of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. Begin by sautéing the onions and garlic in a little olive oil until they become fragrant, then add the rice and cook until it’s lightly toasted. Pour in the broth and tomatoes, and let everything simmer until the rice is cooked through and fluffy.

Once the rice is ready, fold in your shredded cheese and watch as it melts into a creamy, gooey masterpiece. The mild tomato flavor combined with the richness of the cheese makes this Mexican side dish one that kids can’t get enough of. For an extra punch of flavor, you can add some mild salsa or chopped cilantro on top. Trust me, your kids will be begging for this cheesy Mexican rice at every meal!

Taco Night Must-Have: Crispy Mexican Side Dishes to Wow the Whole Family

What’s taco night without the perfect crunchy sides? If you’re looking for Mexican side dishes that add some crispy texture to your meal, look no further. From crunchy tortilla chips to crispy taquitos, these sides are a hit with kids who love that satisfying crunch with every bite.

Start by whipping up some homemade tortilla chips. All you need are store-bought corn tortillas, olive oil, and a little salt. Cut the tortillas into triangles, brush them with oil, and bake them in the oven until they’re golden and crispy. These chips are perfect for dipping into guacamole or salsa, and they’re much healthier than the fried versions you find in stores. Your kids will love munching on these while waiting for their tacos!

Another crispy side dish that will wow the whole family is taquitos. These crunchy, rolled-up tortillas are stuffed with cheese and chicken or beef, then baked until crispy. You can serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping, making them the ultimate finger food. Kids love how fun and interactive taquitos are, and they’re perfect for taco night or any Mexican-inspired meal.

Simple Mexican Bean Salad: A Refreshing Side Dish Packed with Flavor

Beans are a key ingredient in many Mexican dishes, and this simple Mexican bean salad is a refreshing, flavorful side dish that’s also packed with nutrients. It’s colorful, zesty, and the perfect complement to any main course. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat more veggies and beans without even realizing it!

This bean salad features black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced bell peppers, red onions, and chopped cilantro, all tossed together in a tangy lime and cumin dressing. The combination of textures — from the creamy beans to the crunchy veggies — makes this salad a hit with kids.

To make the dressing, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and a little honey for sweetness. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss everything together until it’s well coated. The tangy lime and earthy cumin flavors give this salad a refreshing kick, while the beans provide plenty of protein and fiber. It’s a win-win for parents and kids alike!

Serve this Mexican bean salad as a side dish to tacos, enchiladas, or any Mexican-inspired meal. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it a great addition to your family’s dinner table.

Sizzling Mexican Street Corn: The Side Dish Kids Can’t Get Enough Of

If you’ve ever had Mexican street corn (or elote), you know it’s one of the most delicious Mexican side dishes out there. The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy mayo, and tangy cheese is unbeatable, and it’s a dish that both kids and adults adore. Best of all, it’s super easy to make at home.

Start by grilling fresh ears of corn until they’re lightly charred and smoky. If you don’t have a grill, you can also roast the corn in the oven. Once the corn is cooked, slather it with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Sprinkle the corn with crumbled Cotija cheese (or Parmesan if you can’t find Cotija), chili powder, and a little chopped cilantro for that authentic street corn flavor.

The combination of sweet corn, creamy sauce, and tangy cheese is pure magic. Kids love the messy, hands-on nature of this dish, and the mild spice from the chili powder can easily be adjusted to suit their taste. Serve this sizzling Mexican street corn as a fun, interactive side dish that will have your kids asking for more!

Conclusion

Mexican side dishes don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With these quick and easy recipes, you can bring the bold, exciting flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table, all while keeping things simple enough for busy weeknights. From cheesy Mexican rice to crispy tortilla chips, these kid-approved side dishes are sure to become family favorites.

So, the next time you’re planning taco night or just want to add a little extra flair to your meals, give these Mexican side dishes a try. Your kids will love them, and you’ll love how easy they are to make! Get ready for requests for seconds (and maybe even thirds) — these sides are just that good!

FAQs

• What are some traditional Mexican side dishes?

Traditional Mexican side dishes include refried beans, Mexican rice, street corn (elote), guacamole, salsa, and tortilla chips. These dishes are often served alongside main courses like tacos, enchiladas, and burritos.

• Are Mexican side dishes kid-friendly?

Yes! Many Mexican side dishes are kid-friendly, featuring flavors and textures that appeal to younger palates. Dishes like cheesy Mexican rice, crispy tortilla chips, and sweet corn can be easily adjusted to suit kids’ tastes, making them great options for family meals.

• How can I make Mexican side dishes healthier?

You can make Mexican side dishes healthier by using fresh ingredients, reducing the amount of cheese or sour cream, and opting for baking instead of frying. For example, instead of frying tortilla chips, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, like in a bean salad, can boost nutrition.

• Can I prepare Mexican side dishes in advance?

Absolutely! Many Mexican side dishes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Dishes like bean salads or salsas often taste even better after marinating overnight. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh.

• What drinks pair well with Mexican side dishes?

Mexican side dishes pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving fruit-infused waters, horchata, or Mexican hot chocolate. If you’re looking for alcoholic beverages, margaritas, palomas, or Mexican lagers can complement the bold flavors of your meals nicely.