What to Eat With Tamales in 2025: 8 Mexican Classics!

Tamales are rich, savory, and deeply satisfying on their own, but the right side dishes can elevate them into a full-on feast. Whether you're enjoying a homemade batch or grabbing some from your favorite local spot, pairing them with bold and balanced flavors makes all the difference.

I’ve rounded up some of the most delicious ideas to serve with tamales. From tangy slaws to creamy beans and refreshing salads, these sides bring variety, texture, and just the right contrast to your plate. Dig in and find your perfect match!

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

1. Super Easy Guacamole

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Slice avocados and scoop into a mixing bowl.

2. Mash to your desired texture with a fork.

3. Add lime juice and salt.

4. Stir in chopped tomato and red onion.

5. Mix in optional ingredients if using.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Overview 🔍

Tamales are rich and savory, so a spoonful of fresh guacamole adds brightness and a cooling balance. The lime and tomato keep things vibrant, while the creamy avocado texture plays well with the soft masa in tamales. It’s a simple side that complements without overpowering.

This is one of my favorite pairings. It takes almost no time, works with every tamale filling, and always disappears fast at the table! It’s easily one of the easiest recipes you could ever make. I like mine chunky with lots of lime and a bit of optional jalapeño for some extra kick.

2. Simple & Tasty Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat lard or oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté chopped onion until soft and golden.

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Stir in beans and water or broth.

5. Mash to your desired consistency.

6. Simmer until thickened, stirring often.

7. Season with salt and optional toppings.

Overview 🔍

Refried beans are one of the most traditional and satisfying sides for tamales. They offer a creamy, savory base that balances out the soft masa and bold fillings. Whether your tamales are stuffed with spicy meats or mild cheese, these beans bring warmth and depth to every bite.

To me, this is a must-have side. It’s simple, deeply flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. I like to top mine with a little cheese and cilantro, and they’re just as tasty spread on the plate or scooped up with a warm tortilla.

3. Pork Tamales With Smoked Chili Sauce and Mango

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat the oven to 450ºF. Submerge corn husks in warm water to soften.

2. Peel and chop garlic, finely chop chipotles, slice scallions, chop onion and poblano pepper, peel mango, and cut into chunks.

3. In a medium bowl, combine masa harina, 1¼ cups water, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and set aside.

4. Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Add onion, garlic, and poblano pepper, cooking until softened, about 4–5 minutes.

5. Add ground pork, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up.

6. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and ½ cup of water, then remove from heat.

7. Remove corn husks from water, pat dry. Fill each husk with a layer of masa, pork mixture, and a little queso fresco, then top with another layer of masa. Wrap and place on a baking sheet, seam-side down.

8. Bake tamales for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

9. For the sauce, combine chipotle chiles, smoked paprika, and half of the chili powder in a small pot with 1 cup water and the remaining tomato paste. Simmer until sauce reduces by half.

10. Thread mango chunks onto skewers, squeeze lime juice over top, and sprinkle with remaining chili powder.

11. Once tamales are golden, remove them from the oven and spoon sauce over them. Serve with mango skewers and garnish with chopped scallions and remaining queso fresco.

Overview 🔍

Pork tamales are an unforgettable combination of smoky, savory, and sweet. The rich pork and masa are complemented by the zesty mango and chipotle sauce, offering a variety of textures and flavors that balance out each bite.

These particular tamales perfectly blend heat, sweetness, and savory goodness. The chipotle sauce gives them depth, while the mango skewer adds a fresh contrast. It’s an exciting twist on the classic tamale that makes it feel both traditional and innovative.

4. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Bring water, rice, oil, and salt to a boil in a saucepan.

3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

5. Fluff rice with a fork.

6. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Overview 🔍

Cilantro lime rice adds a fresh, citrusy note that lightens up the richness of tamales. The mild tang of lime and herbaceous cilantro gives you a clean, aromatic side that pairs especially well with spicy or cheesy tamale fillings.

I love this rice because it's so easy and versatile. It doesn’t overpower the main dish but livens up the plate. It’s also one of those sides that works hot, warm, or even cold in a pinch.

5. Traditional Mexican Pico de Gallo

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Dice tomatoes and chop onion, jalapeños, and cilantro.

2. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.

3. Add lime juice and salt.

4. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.

Overview 🔍

Pico de gallo is a refreshing, zesty side that pairs perfectly with tamales. The fresh tomatoes, crisp onions, and spicy jalapeños provide a vibrant contrast to the rich, savory tamale fillings. It adds a burst of flavor that’s light but packed with freshness.

I love it because it’s the perfect way to bring a burst of freshness to your meal. It’s quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser, especially with tamales that are on the heavier side. The tangy lime really brightens up the dish!

6. Grilled Corn

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Grill the corn on a barbecue for about 2 minutes per side (4 in total); alternatively, roast in the oven at 400ºF for about 15 minutes.

2. Slather with butter, dust with salt and pepper, and serve!

Overview 🔍

Corn on the cob brings a crunchy element to otherwise mushy tamales. While tasty, the tamales really get elevated by the freshness and unique flavor of the corn with butter.

I like it because it’s super simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also very low in calories – you can even skip the butter or cut the amount in half to make it even lower-calorie.

7. Jicama Slaw

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Peel and thinly slice the jicama and carrot using a knife or mandoline slicer.

2. Shred the red cabbage and chop the cilantro.

3. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.

4. Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

5. Toss until everything is well coated and season to taste.

Overview 🔍

Jicama slaw is a crisp, refreshing side that complements tamales with its light texture and bright flavors. The crunchy jicama pairs perfectly with the soft masa, while the tangy lime and fresh cilantro bring a burst of zest. It’s an ideal contrast to rich or spicy tamale fillings.

This slaw is a game-changer! It’s super simple to make, yet it adds such a satisfying crunch and fresh flavor to any tamale meal. I love how the tangy lime really cuts through the richness of the tamales without overpowering them. Plus, the jicama is unique and not seen every day, especially in the US.

8. Charro Beans

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight.

2. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté chopped onion until soft.

3. Add garlic and sliced jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes.

4. Stir in cumin and chili powder, then add beans (or canned beans) and water or broth.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30–40 minutes (if using dried beans).

6. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

7. Stir in fresh cilantro and season with salt to taste.

Overview 🔍

Charro beans are a savory and smoky side that pairs wonderfully with tamales. The beans absorb all the spices, offering deep, earthy flavors that complement the richness of the tamales. The heat from the jalapeño adds just the right amount of kick, while the cilantro provides a fresh finish.

I love serving charro beans with tamales because they’re hearty and full of flavor. The slow cooking process makes them incredibly tender, and they’re perfect for soaking up any extra salsa or sauce. Plus, they’re a great option for adding a bit more protein to your meal.

FAQ

What goes well with tamales for dinner?

Tamales are rich and hearty, so pairing them with lighter, fresh sides can help balance the meal. Rice, beans, and salads work well to complement the tamales’ texture and flavor. You want something that won’t overpower but instead enhances the overall experience.

The Easy Cilantro Lime Rice is a great option because its zesty, fresh flavor contrasts beautifully with the rich tamales, adding lightness and vibrancy to the meal.

What are you supposed to eat with tamales?

Tamales are often served with sides that add contrast and enhance the flavors of the dish. Common options include rice, beans, or a light slaw, which balance the tamales' savory richness with a bit of crunch or freshness.

I really like the Jicama Slaw – it’s a great match because its crisp texture and citrusy, tangy flavor provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory, hearty tamales.

What do you dip tamales in?

Dips for tamales typically add extra richness or a bit of spice. Whether it's a creamy dip or a tangy salsa, something that adds moisture and enhances flavor can elevate the tamales experience.

For instance, the Super Easy Guacamole works well because its creamy texture and fresh, zesty flavor balance the tamales' heat and provide an extra layer of richness.

How are tamales traditionally served?

Tamales are traditionally served wrapped in corn husks, often accompanied by a variety of sides like beans or salsas. The simplicity of these sides allows the tamales to be the star of the meal while enhancing the overall flavor experience.

One option you might love is Pork Tamales with Smoked Chili Sauce and Mango. It’s a perfect traditional twist, served with a smoky sauce and mango skewers, adding a delightful mix of heat and sweetness.