Ah, carnitas! Who doesn’t love that crispy, juicy goodness?
We can all agree that carnitas make everything better. Tacos, burritos, or even just a bowl of rice—it’s hard to go wrong.
Now, let’s talk sides. Sometimes we need a little extra to round out our meal. Personally, we’ve tried everything from simple sautéed veggies to zesty slaws, and trust us, the right side can elevate your carnitas game.
We’re here to share our top picks that perfectly complement those tender bites of pork. Get ready for some mouthwatering options that will leave your plates licking clean!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Carnitas
Here are thirteen of our favorite side dishes to pair with carnitas:
1 – Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote is a summer classic that screams “fiesta!” This dish combines sweet corn with a tangy, creamy spread. We love how it’s then coated with crumbled cheese and spices, giving it a fiesta in every bite.
The charred corn adds a smoky flavor, while the mayo-lime mixture brings brightness. It’s a crunchy, zesty side that pairs perfectly with carnitas. Trust us, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds!
2 – Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo is like the refreshing sidekick we all need.
This fresh salsa bursts with flavours from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
The crunch from the veggies and the zesty kick make it a standout.
We love how it adds brightness to any plate, especially the rich taste of carnitas.
It’s simple, fresh, and ready to be the star of your next taco night!
3 – Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is like a burst of sunshine on your plate. This side brings a zingy flavor that dances well with rich meats. The fresh cilantro adds a herby taste, while the lime juice gives it a tang that brightens up every bite.
We love how the rice absorbs those flavors, turning a simple grain into a lively companion for carnitas. The result is a refreshing mix that just works.
4 – Black Bean Salad
Let’s talk black bean salad. This side dish is all about that hearty goodness. It features tender black beans tossed with fresh veggies.
The crunch from bell peppers and onions plays nicely with the beans. A splash of lime juice adds a zesty kick. Each bite brings a balance of earthiness and brightness. It pairs well with carnitas, giving your plate a lovely contrast in flavors.
5 – Jicama Slaw
Jicama slaw is a crunchy revelation on your plate. We love its crisp texture paired with a tangy lime dressing. This slaw has a refreshing bite from the jicama, complemented by the brightness of lime and a hint of spice.
Adding shredded carrots and cilantro enhances the slaw’s depth. Every bite is a crisp, vibrant experience that contrasts beautifully with rich carnitas. It’s the perfect side to keep things light and lively.
6 – Roasted Poblano Peppers
Roasted poblano peppers are a smoky delight. They deliver a mild heat that warms your palate without overwhelming it.
Each bite reveals a creamy texture, especially when grilled just right.
We enjoy their charred exterior paired with fresh toppings like cheese or herbs. It’s a side that balances spice and smoothness perfectly.
These peppers transform any meal with their rich flavor. They’re a fun twist that brings depth to our carnitas spread.
7 – Guacamole
Guacamole is that creamy, dreamy dip we all crave. It’s rich and smooth, with ripe avocados taking center stage. Lime juice adds a tangy pop that livens up each bite.
We love how fresh cilantro brings in herbaceous notes, while diced tomatoes add a nice splash of colour and a bit of sweetness. This dip pairs perfectly with crunchy chips or as a topping for carnitas. Enjoy this vibrant treat any time!
8 – Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is pure joy on a plate. The caramelized sweetness pairs so well with savory dishes. Each slice brings a tropical vibe, with a slight char that enhances its natural sugars.
This side is juicy and bright, making it a fun contrast to rich meats like carnitas. We love how it adds zing to every bite without feeling heavy. It balances flavors effortlessly and makes our meals feel a bit more festive.
9 – Refried Beans
Refried beans are our go-to comfort food that feels like a warm hug. They’re creamy and savory, with just the right amount of seasoning.
Each bite brings a hearty texture that complements any meal. The blend of spices can really vary, giving us a smoky or slightly spicy kick depending on how they’re made. We like to dollop them next to our carnitas, adding depth and a satisfying contrast.
10 – Avocado Crema
Avocado crema brings a creamy touch to your plate. It’s smooth and rich with ripe avocados stealing the spotlight.
Lime juice makes it tangy, while fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous kick.
We love how it drizzles nicely over carnitas or acts as a dip for chips.
Each bite is bright and refreshing, effortlessly brightening our meals. It’s that perfect topping that no dish should miss.
11 – Chili Lime Roasted Sweet Potatoes
We absolutely adore chili lime roasted sweet potatoes. These gems are sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once. The roasted edges provide a lovely crunch while the insides stay soft.
The chili powder adds a vibrant kick, perfectly balanced by the zesty lime juice.
Every bite delivers a hearty flavor that complements carnitas beautifully. These sweet potatoes will surprise your palate and keep you reaching for seconds—who can resist that combo?
12 – Mexican Zucchini
Mexican zucchini is a vibrant addition to our table. It shines with fresh, light flavours that brighten any dish. Tossed with spices like cumin and chili powder, it brings a subtle heat that plays well with the creamy textures of carnitas.
We enjoy it sautéed with garlic and onions for a delicious depth. Every bite is a crunchy, zesty experience that’s both wholesome and satisfying. It’s a perfect way to sneak in some greens!
13 – Tomatillo Salsa
Tomatillo salsa is like the zesty friend everyone needs at a party. It offers a bright and tangy flavor that wakes up your palate.
The tomatillos bring a mild tartness, while the garlic adds depth. We love how a hint of cilantro gives it that fresh kick.
Every spoonful adds a refreshing twist to dishes. This salsa is perfect on tacos or as a simple dip. It’s a vibrant addition to our meals.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.