Bean And Cheese Enchiladas: The Perfect Side Dish Pairings

what goes with bean and cheese enchiladas besides rice

Bean and cheese enchiladas are a delicious and hearty meal, and there are plenty of sides to serve alongside them. While rice is a popular choice, there are several other options to choose from. For instance, a simple side salad, such as a tomato, avocado, and corn salad, pairs well with the enchiladas. Chips and salsa are another great option to keep things simple, and a lime wedge or lime juice can add a tangy twist. If you're looking for something more substantial, you could try making Mexican chicken and rice or beef and bean burritos.

Characteristics Values
Type of Dish Chips and salsa, side salad, roasted vegetables, or simple salad
Ingredients Beans, cheese, rice, enchilada sauce, vegetables, meat, seasonings
Preparation Method Bake, roll, fry, assemble, cook, stir, blend, grill, drizzle
Cooking Utensils Oven, skillet, blender, baking dish, saucepan, microwave
Cooking Temperature 350°F, 400°F

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Try a side salad, like a tomato, avocado and corn salad

If you're looking for a side dish to accompany your bean and cheese enchiladas, why not try a refreshing and light side salad? A tomato, avocado, and corn salad can be a perfect complement to the hearty and cheesy enchiladas. This salad option is a great way to add some freshness and crunch to your meal, balancing out the richness of the enchiladas.

When making this salad, start by chopping ripe, juicy tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. You can use any variety of tomatoes you like, but heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes can add a burst of flavor. Next, peel and dice a ripe avocado, adding a creamy texture and healthy fats to your salad. For the corn, you can use fresh corn kernels or opt for grilled corn to enhance the sweetness. Mix these three ingredients together in a bowl.

To take your salad to the next level, you can add some diced red onions for a sharp flavor and a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. If you want to make it spicier, chop up some jalapeños and toss them in. Season your salad with salt and pepper, and maybe a drizzle of olive oil, to taste. You can also add some chopped fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.

This side salad is an excellent choice to serve alongside your bean and cheese enchiladas. It's a simple yet delicious option that your guests will surely enjoy. It's a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables, and it pairs perfectly with the Mexican flavors of the enchiladas. So, next time you're planning a Mexican-themed dinner, don't forget to include this tasty and healthy side salad!

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Chips and salsa

  • Chipotle salsa: This salsa has a super smoky flavour that will add a nice kick to your meal.
  • Tomatillo salsa: A tangy and mild salsa that will balance out the spice of your enchiladas.
  • Black bean salsa: This salsa includes garlic and lime, adding a unique twist to your classic bean and cheese enchiladas.
  • Red pepper salsa: Fire-roasted red peppers provide a nice charred flavour to your salsa.
  • Habanero mango salsa: This salsa is fresh and fruity, with a nice kick from the habanero peppers.

In addition to the traditional salsa options, you can also get creative and experiment with different dips for your chips. Here are some ideas:

  • Guacamole: Avocados provide a creamy texture and a mild flavour that goes well with spicy enchiladas.
  • Pineapple salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa that will add a unique twist to your meal.
  • Chorizo dip: A savoury and spicy dip made with a layer of cream cheese and a delicious chorizo and tomato mixture.
  • Baked fiesta dip: Something a little heftier to go with your chips.

So, the next time you're serving bean and cheese enchiladas, don't forget to add some chips and salsa on the side! Experiment with different types of salsas and dips to find your perfect pairing.

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Roasted vegetables, like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, zucchini, spinach or corn

If you're looking for a side dish to serve with bean and cheese enchiladas, roasted vegetables are a great option. Here are some ideas for roasted vegetables that would pair well with your enchiladas:

Mushrooms

Roasted mushrooms have a rich, earthy flavour that can complement the beans and cheese in the enchiladas. They also have a meaty texture, adding a satisfying bite to your meal. Simply toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they're tender and golden brown.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and fibre, and they taste delicious when roasted. Their natural sweetness can balance out the savoury flavours of the enchiladas. Cut them into cubes, toss them in olive oil and your choice of spices (cumin and paprika work well), and roast them until they're soft and slightly crispy on the outside.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that takes on a whole new flavour when roasted. It becomes tender and slightly sweet, making it a perfect side dish for enchiladas. Cut the zucchini into slices or wedges, drizzle with olive oil, and roast them until they're golden brown. You can also add some spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to enhance their flavour.

Spinach

Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that can be roasted to perfection. It wilts down and takes on a slightly nutty flavour, making it a tasty addition to your meal. Simply toss fresh spinach leaves in olive oil, spread them out on a baking sheet, and roast them in the oven until they're slightly crispy. You can also add some sliced onions or garlic to enhance their flavour.

Corn

Corn is a classic side dish for Mexican cuisine, and it can be roasted to add a smoky flavour. You can roast corn on the cob or cut the kernels off and roast them separately. For a simple roasted corn side dish, toss the corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until slightly charred. You can also add some chilli powder or lime juice for an extra kick of flavour.

By serving any of these roasted vegetable options as a side dish, you'll add not only flavour but also a boost of nutrients to your meal. Enjoy your bean and cheese enchiladas with a delicious and healthy twist!

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A simple side salad

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz chopped lettuce (a mix of romaine and spring lettuce works well)
  • 1-2 Roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4-1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1-2 cups croutons (freshly made or store-bought)
  • 1/4-1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta (optional)

For the dressing:

  • 3 TBSP quality olive oil
  • 1 TBSP white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt, or season to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

  • Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk, or add to a mason jar and shake well to mix.
  • Prepare the vegetables as described in the ingredients list.
  • Combine the vegetables, croutons, and optional cheese in a large bowl and mix.
  • Whisk or shake the dressing once more, then dip a lettuce leaf into it to taste. Adjust the seasoning/ingredients if desired.
  • Pour half of the dressing over the salad before serving, and toss to combine. Serve with the remaining dressing on the side so that each person can add their ideal amount to their salad. Enjoy!

This salad can be customised with whatever vegetables you have on hand, and you can also add extras like pepperoncini peppers, sliced olives, banana peppers, or chopped broccoli. If you want to make it more of a meal, you could also add a protein like chicken or shrimp, and/or some croutons.

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Sour cream

When serving sour cream with bean and cheese enchiladas, it can be offered as a topping or dip to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. It can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as salsa, to create a unique sauce that complements the enchiladas.

Frequently asked questions

Some side dishes that go well with bean and cheese enchiladas include chips and salsa, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, zucchini, spinach or corn.

Some good toppings for bean and cheese enchiladas are sliced or pickled red onion, jalapeno, thinly sliced radishes, sliced avocado or guacamole, lime wedges, sour cream or strained yogurt, hot sauce, and/or additional salsa.

Some variations on the bean and cheese enchilada recipe include adding meat like ground beef, turkey, or shredded chicken, or making them vegan by using non-dairy cheese and tortillas made with oil or shortening instead of lard.

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