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What is a typical Mexican dinner?
In different regions and based on cultural norms, the timing and nature of meals can vary significantly from one family to another. Focusing on the customary evening Mexican meal, it’s characterized by its comparatively lighter fare.
The usual dietary pattern in Mexico progresses from the day’s heaviest meal in the morning to the most modest one in the evening. As a result, evening meals often comprise an assortment of snack-like items rather than a full course. Nonetheless, dining out remains an option, with eateries being frequented.
However, during the evening, snack stalls often see a surge in customers, eager to purchase light bites such as nuts, dried fruits, and various savory snacks.
When it comes to a standard Mexican dinner, the menu typically includes uncomplicated yet satisfying items like quesadillas, tortillas, tamales, sweet bread, burrito, or tacos. Alternatively, some might prefer a warming beverage accompanied by bread.
What’s a good side for tacos?
Tacos are often the first dish that comes to mind when thinking of Mexican cuisine. Essentially, a taco is a traditional Mexican creation involving a small, hand-sized tortilla made from corn or wheat. This tortilla is then folded around a variety of fillings. While delicious on their own, tacos are elevated to a new level when accompanied by the right side dishes. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or any other day of the week, here are some of the most popular and complementary side dishes for tacos prepared at mexican restaurant or at home:
- Guacamole
- Refried Beans
- Vegetable Salad
- Corn on the Cob
- Salsa
- Enchilada
- Nachos
- Pinto Beans
- Jalapeno Poppers
These sides not only enhance the flavors of the tacos but also add texture and variety to the meal.
Traditional Mexican cuisine dishes
Mexico’s culinary landscape is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, ranging from the humble yet delicious tacos sold by street vendors to the hearty and traditional meals enjoyed at lunch. For those either visiting Mexico or keen to explore Mexican cuisine, delving into their traditional dishes is a great way to experience the essence of Mexican cooking. Here are some classic Mexican dishes that truly showcase the nation’s culinary heritage:
- Enchiladas: Initially made with corn tortillas wrapped around small fish, enchiladas have evolved. Today, they’re prepared with either corn or flour tortillas and filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, seafood, vegetables, or beans. They’re a quintessential choice for a traditional Mexican breakfast.
- Chilaquiles: A beloved breakfast dish, chilaquiles consist of lightly fried corn tortillas cut into smaller pieces, bathed in salsa, and often accompanied by scrambled eggs, cheese, avocado, and chicken.
- Tortas: These are Mexican sandwiches, usually served hot. Tortas are filled with a combination of meats and vegetables, offering a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Posole (or Pozole): This hearty soup is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It features hominy (or maize) and is seasoned with aromatic spices, tomatoes, shredded cabbage, and onions. Posole is traditionally served with a warm tortilla on the side.
- Tostadas: Meaning ‘toasted’ in Spanish, tostadas are a simple yet filling dish. They are made of corn tortillas fried until they’re golden and crunchy, and can be served plain or topped with a variety of garnishes such as cheese, ceviche, or meat.
Each of these dishes offers a unique taste of Mexico, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the country.
31. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a widely adored street food staple found throughout Mexico and the U.S., renowned for its tantalizing flavors and simplicity. In this particular recipe, the key to its irresistible taste lies in the preparation and combination of ingredients.
Fresh corn is grilled to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness and smokiness. Once grilled, the corn is generously slathered in a creamy blend of mayonnaise and Mexican crema, enriching it with a smooth, luxurious texture.
The dish is then elevated with a dusting of chili powder, adding a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the mayo and crema. A generous sprinkling of cotija cheese is the final touch, offering a salty, crumbly contrast to the sweet corn.
The addition of fresh lime juice is crucial, as it cuts through the richness and balances the overall flavor with its zesty, tangy notes.
This version of elote turns a simple ear of corn into a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but is also incredibly satisfying, explaining its widespread popularity.
The versatility of elote is further demonstrated in variations like elote corn soup and elote tacos, showing just how much this delightful dish has been embraced and adapted in various culinary forms.
30. Chicken Tostadas
These vibrant tostadas offer a nutritious blend of proteins from beans and chicken. They’re layered with an array of flavors, further enhanced when topped with fresh cilantro.
Serve these with a dash of hot sauce and lime wedges for an added zing. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to any meal.
29. Cadillac Margarita for a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta!
When it’s time to celebrate, especially for Cinco de Mayo, a Cadillac Margarita is the ideal choice. Among the plethora of cocktails, this version stands out, crafted with premium ingredients and a touch of orange to balance the boldness of tequila.
This recipe yields two margaritas, perfect for a cozy happy hour at home, but it’s also easily scalable for larger gatherings. Serve it alongside tacos and a simple queso dip for the ultimate festive experience. Get ready to shake up some fun with this classic drink!
28. Apple Nachos with Peanut Butter and Chocolate – Flavorful Mexican Dessert
This recipe takes a delightful spin on traditional nachos, making for a delicious Mexican-inspired dessert. Apple slices are used in place of chips, drizzled with peanut butter and melted chocolate, creating a balance of fruit, protein, and sweetness.
It’s a quick, 5-minute treat that’s both vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences. Whether as a dessert or a healthier snack option, these apple nachos are sure to be a hit.
27. Shrimp Tacos with Spicy Coleslaw
These tacos are simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The spicy coleslaw provides a zesty kick, perfectly balanced by the cool and creamy cilantro sour cream sauce. This dish is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal.
26. Pozole Rojo (Mexican Stew with Pork and Hominy)
Pozole Rojo is a rich and smoky Mexican stew, deeply flavored with a broth of dried chiles, onions, and oregano, and brimming with tender pork and hominy. This hearty stew is a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering a warm and comforting meal with a depth of flavor.
25. Easy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup (Instant Pot) Low Carb Recipe
For those on a ketogenic diet, this Chicken Tortilla Soup is a perfect choice. Prepared in an Instant Pot, it’s not only quick and easy but also gluten-free. Plus, it can be adapted to be dairy-free.
This soup, bursting with fresh ingredients, is suitable for the entire family, regardless of their dietary preferences.
24. Crispy Chicken Tortilla Casserole (5 Ingredients)
This Chicken Tortilla Mexican Casserole is the epitome of convenience, requiring only 5 minutes of prep time and just 5 ingredients. It’s an effortless yet delicious dish, ideal for those busy days when time is short but a warm, comforting meal is desired.
23. Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice Easy Dinner Recipe
This recipe harnesses the convenience of the Instant Pot to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Combining chicken, black beans, rice, and corn, it’s a well-rounded one-pot meal that’s packed with both protein and taste.
22. Cilantro Rice – Easy Mexican Recipe
Cilantro rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that complements virtually any protein. It’s both quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for adding a Latin flair to any meal. This particular recipe, shared by a friend named Michelle, highlights the fresh and aromatic nature of cilantro.
21. Carne En Su Jugo – Favorite Mexican Dinner Recipe
This dish, whose name translates to “meat cooked in its own juices,” is a traditional recipe from the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It features beef cooked in a savory tomatillo broth, creating a rich and flavorful soup. Typically served with beans, Carne En Su Jugo is a beloved Mexican comfort food.
20. Mango Habanero Salsa Recipe for Authentic Flavor Weeknight Dinner!
This salsa recipe offers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Combining the tropical taste of ripe mangos with the fiery kick of habanero peppers, this salsa is brightened with cilantro and onions. It’s an ideal accompaniment for a variety of dishes, adding a burst of authentic flavor.
19. Pulled Pork Tamales
Featuring slow-cooked pulled pork as the filling, these tamales are a testament to the delicious versatility of Mexican cuisine. The recipe includes a step-by-step tutorial, making it easy to prepare this classic dish. Perfect for batch cooking, these tamales can be frozen for a convenient make-ahead meal.
18. Southwestern Chicken Orzo and Black Bean Skillet
This dish is a lively combination of chicken, orzo, and black beans, cooked together in one skillet for a convenient and flavorful weeknight dinner. Its ease of preparation and delightful taste will make it a family favorite, requested time and again.
17. Carne Guisada Recipe (Mexican Style)
A Tex-Mex or Mexican-style beef stew, this Carne Guisada recipe involves chunks of beef simmered in a rich and aromatic brown gravy. It’s straightforward to prepare, and you likely have the ingredients in your pantry already.
16. Beef-Stuffed Poblano Peppers
These stuffed poblano peppers are a simple yet delicious dinner option. Filled with beef, they’re easy to make and are a great choice for a quick meal. Plus, for those on a ketogenic diet, poblano peppers are keto-friendly.
15. Camarones a la Diabla
Also known as Mexican Deviled Shrimp, this dish is brimming with flavor. It features plump shrimp in a spicy and savory sauce, all ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal.
14. Chili Relleno Casserole
This casserole offers all the delicious flavors of traditional chili relleno but in a more convenient casserole form. It’s simple to prepare and can be served as a main dish for dinner, breakfast, or brunch.
13. Enfrijoladas – for Mexican Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
A must-try recipe, Enfrijoladas are similar to enchiladas but are smothered in a savory bean sauce. They are versatile, suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on the filling you choose. This dish is a comforting and satisfying option for any meal.
12. Chili Lime Steak Fajitas – The Best One Pan Dinner
These fajitas are a fantastic one-pan meal, combining the zesty flavors of chili and lime with steak. They’re not only packed with flavor but are also healthy, naturally gluten-free, and ideal for meal prep.
Best mexican dinner idea!
11. Green Quesadilla (with Creamy Green Sauce)
This recipe takes quesadillas to a new level with a delicious green sauce. The recipe also includes helpful tips to ensure your quesadilla turns out perfectly every time.
Favorite mexican dish!
10. Rotisserie Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are an easy, healthy, and low-carb option for a weeknight meal. Using rotisserie chicken saves time, requiring only 10 minutes of hands-on preparation and 30 minutes in the oven.
Perfect mexican food recipe!
9. 30 Minute Easy Cheesy Enchiladas
Quick and effortless, these cheesy enchiladas are a dream for a busy night. Requiring just six ingredients, they’re cheesy and covered in a sour cream enchilada sauce, all ready in about 30 minutes.
8. Instant Pot Barbacoa Recipe – Mexican Food for Taco Nights
This recipe offers a modern twist on traditional barbacoa. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a weeknight meal, especially for taco nights. The Instant Pot makes it an easy and efficient option.
7. Mexican Fajita Steak Salad
This salad is a delightful combination of cool crisp romaine, juicy steak, and hot seared peppers and onions. The recipe includes making your own fajita seasoning and crunchy tortilla strips, elevating the dish to a new level of freshness and flavor.
6. Baked Tilapia Fish Tacos Recipe – Authentic Mexican Dinner
This Baked Tilapia Fish Tacos recipe is a quick and easy dinner option that takes less than 30 minutes. The tilapia fillets are seasoned and baked until flaky, then stuffed into soft tortillas with your choice of toppings. It’s a family favorite that’s both simple and satisfying.
5. Easy Mexican Lasagna Recipe
Combining the best of Mexican and Italian flavors, this Mexican Lasagna is a family favorite. It’s a straightforward casserole dish that’s perfect for an enjoyable dinner. The recipe also includes suggestions for tasty sides for lasagna.
4. Popular Mexican Cauliflower Rice Skillet
This recipe is a delightful vegan and gluten-free option that brings together bell peppers, corn, black beans, and tomatoes for a Mexican-inspired flavor. It’s an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish, ideal for those looking for a lighter alternative to traditional rice.
3. Chicken Enchiladas – Easy chicken recipes – Dinner ideas
Chicken enchiladas are a go-to for an effortless and delicious dinner. This recipe is straightforward to prepare, making it one of the best chicken dishes to serve for a satisfying meal.
2. Instant Pot Mexican Black Beans & Brown Rice
This healthy vegan recipe is perfect for a post-workout meal, lunchbox addition, meal prep, or an easy side dish. Made in the Instant Pot with canned black beans, it’s a convenient and tasty Mexican favorite.
1. Instant Pot Mexican Quinoa Easy Recipe
Learn how to make this quick and healthy Mexican quinoa dish in the Instant Pot. It’s vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free, resembling a rice casserole loaded with sweetcorn, black beans, salsa, and whole grain quinoa.
30+ Traditional Mexican Dishes
Bring the flavors of Mexico to your table with 31 easy Mexican dinner recipes, showcasing favorite mexican dishes.
Ingredients
- Guacamole
- Refried beans
- veggie salad
- Corn on the Cob
- Salsa
Instructions
- Choose any Mexican dinner recipes from the post that you like.
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Mexican dinner recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
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