Quesadilla is a classic Mexican dish that consists of tortillas filled with melted cheese and other ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and beans. While quesadillas can be enjoyed on their own, they are often served with sides that complement their flavors and add a variety of textures and nutrients.
If you are wondering what to serve with quesadillas, look no further! In this article, we will explore some delicious and easy-to-make side dishes that will take your quesadilla game to the next level. From fresh salads and guacamole to rice and beans, we’ve got you covered with ideas that will satisfy your taste buds and make your next meal a hit. So, let’s get started!
Classic Sides: Guacamole, Salsa, and Sour Cream
When it comes to quesadillas, there are classic sides that go hand in hand with the dish. Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream are the trifecta of toppings that can take your quesadillas to the next level.
Guacamole is a creamy and delicious dip made from mashed avocados, lime juice, and seasonings. It pairs well with quesadillas as it balances the flavors of the dish and adds a refreshing twist. Salsa, on the other hand, is a tomato-based sauce that is a little tangy, spicy, and full of flavor. It can be mild or hot depending on your preference. Sour cream is a cooling and creamy complement to the bold flavors of the quesadillas. It also adds a smooth and velvety texture to the dish. These three classic sides will add a total burst of flavor to your dish and are a must-try.
Creative Options: Mango Salsa, Grilled Pineapple, and Cabbage Slaw
Quesadillas are a Mexican dish that has become immensely popular all over the world, courtesy of their delicious taste and versatility. If you’re looking to take your quesadilla game to the next level, then you might want to consider some creative options for side dishes. For instance, mango salsa is an unusual yet perfect pairing with quesadillas. The combination of juicy and tangy sweet mangoes with the spice of jalapeño peppers and cilantro creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors that complement quesadillas perfectly.
Another creative option is grilled pineapple. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the smoky flavor from grilling creates a delicious contrast with the savory quesadillas. You can also opt for cabbage slaw as a side dish. Made with shredded red or green cabbage, lime and cilantro dressing, and a little bit of jalapeño, the cabbage slaw is great for adding some crunch and freshness to your dish. Whether you choose mango salsa, grilled pineapple, or cabbage slaw as your side dish, they are all great options that are sure to elevate your quesadilla game to the next level.
Lighter Choices: Roasted Vegetables and Black Bean Salad
If you want to make your quesadilla meal a bit more on the healthier side, roasted vegetables and black bean salad are perfect options. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor. You can roast bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil until they are nicely charred and tender. These vegetables not only add color and nutrition to your plate, but they also complement the flavors of the quesadillas.
Black bean salad is another great option to serve with quesadillas. Black beans are high in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious and filling choice. You can make a simple salad by mixing canned black beans with chopped tomatoes, red onion, fresh cilantro, and lime juice. The tangy and fresh flavors of the salad will balance out the richness of the quesadillas. These lighter choices are perfect for those who want to indulge in their love for quesadillas while staying on track with their health goals.
Heartier Fare: Spanish Rice and Refried Beans
If you’re looking for a heartier meal to serve alongside your quesadillas, there are few options that fit the bill better than Spanish rice and refried beans. Spanish rice is a classic Mexican dish that is made by cooking white rice with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. The result is a flavorful and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, spicy goodness of a hot quesadilla.
Refried beans are another classic Mexican dish that make the ideal accompaniment to a plate of quesadillas. These mashed and fried beans are seasoned with spices and sometimes bacon or chorizo to give them a rich, savory flavor. They are filling and satisfying, providing a great source of protein that complements the flavors of the quesadillas perfectly. Together, Spanish rice and refried beans offer a complete meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of guests.
Savory Dips: Chili Con Queso and Spinach Dip
Savory dips are the perfect accompaniment to quesadillas and add an extra burst of flavor to every bite. Chili con queso, a spicy cheese dip, is a classic pairing with quesadillas. It is a smooth and creamy dip made with melted cheese, jalapenos, and diced tomatoes. Chili con queso can be made in a matter of minutes and is perfect for serving as an appetizer or a snack. It can also be used as a condiment or a topping for nachos, tacos, and burritos.
Another great option is a spinach dip, which is made with spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, and various herbs and spices. This dip is a healthy option that is extremely flavorful and adds a nice texture to quesadillas. Spinach dip is also a perfect way to sneak in some vegetables into a meal. For those who are looking to add some more heat to their dip, they can add some jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the mix. Whether you prefer a cheesy or a healthy option, both chili con queso and spinach dip are sure to enhance the taste of quesadillas.
Mexican-Inspired Accompaniments: Corn on the Cob and Grilled Cornbread
When it comes to Mexican-inspired accompaniments to serve with quesadillas, two classic options are corn on the cob and grilled cornbread. Corn on the cob is a delicious and easy side dish that can be seasoned with spices like chili powder and cumin for added flavor. Simply boil or grill the corn until it is tender and serve it alongside your quesadillas for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Another great option is grilled cornbread, which can add some variety to your meal while still keeping with the Mexican theme. Simply slice a pre-made cornbread into wedges and grill it until it is warm and slightly crispy on the outside. This can be served alongside your quesadillas and topped with butter or honey for a sweet and savory flavor combination. Overall, both corn on the cob and grilled cornbread are simple, delicious, and make great accompaniments to quesadillas.
Refreshing Beverages: Tequila Sunrise and Agua Fresca.
When it comes to serving refreshing beverages with your quesadillas, you can never go wrong with a Tequila Sunrise. This classic cocktail is a vibrant blend of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, which creates a striking sunrise-like effect in the glass. It’s the perfect accompaniment to the rich and spicy flavors of the quesadillas. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can also try a virgin version of this cocktail by omitting the tequila and adding some extra orange juice.
Another popular option for a refreshing beverage to serve with quesadillas is Agua Fresca. This traditional Mexican drink is made by blending fresh fruits or vegetables with water, sugar, and sometimes lime juice. The result is a light and refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with spicy food like quesadillas. Some popular flavors for Agua Fresca include watermelon, cucumber, and pineapple. You can easily make this drink at home with just a blender and a few simple ingredients.
Conclusion
There are endless options when it comes to serving quesadillas, from classic Mexican sides to creative twists like salsa cupcakes. The key is to find flavors and textures that complement the cheesy goodness of the quesadilla.
Whether you prefer traditional toppings like guacamole and sour cream or something more unexpected like roasted vegetables or fruit salsa, the possibilities for pairing with quesadillas are nearly limitless. So next time you’re planning a Mexican-inspired menu, get creative with your sides and enjoy the delicious and versatile quesadilla.