A true classic in Latin American and Spanish kitchens, picadillo is a delicious dish made from ground beef and sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes, with spices like cumin and cinnamon. (Some versions even include ingredients like as olives, capers and raisins!) Forget spending hours searching for the perfect side dishes to complement your picadillo. I’ve done the work for you and compiled an amazing list of over 20 side dishes that pair wonderfully with this classic dish!
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Yes, picadillo is great for meal prep. It holds up well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated. Its flavors also tend to deepen and improve over time, making it a convenient and tasty option for prepared meals throughout the week.
Can picadillo be made with other types of meat?
Yes, while traditional picadillo is made with ground beef, you can also use ground pork or turkey. Some variations also use chicken or vegan substitutes. Try my version of Picadillo made with ground turkey!
What is the origin of picadillo?
Picadillo has its roots in Spain and has become a beloved dish throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. The name “picadillo” comes from the Spanish word “picar,” which means “to chop” or “mince”.
How is picadillo served in different countries?
Cuba: Typically served with rice and black beans, and sometimes fried plantains. Mexico: Often served with tortillas, rice, and sometimes in stuffed peppers or empanadas. Puerto Rico: Served with rice and beans, or used as a filling for empanadas.
Ordinary white rice is transformed into the best savory side dish in this Garlic Rice recipe! Super fluffy and loaded with garlic and butter, one taste and you’ll never settle for blah rice again.
Mexican Street Corn Salad with Pearl Couscous puts a fun twist on elotes. Smoky grilled corn, a creamy cumin-lime dressing, and pearl couscous combine to create this delicious salad.
Jazz up the cans of black beans in your cupboard with this Mexican Black Beans recipe. It’s a low-fuss skillet recipe that’s quick and easy, and made with warm and smoky Mexican-inspired flavors. Serve them with tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, fajitas, and more!
This Arugula Salad recipe with red wine vinaigrette is my go-to green salad. The arugula has a peppery bite to it which pairs wonderfully with the acidity of the vinaigrette.
Quick Pickled Onions are so easy to make at home. With just 5-minutes you can have your red onions pickling. You can store them in the fridge for up to two weeks!
Add a healthy boost of nutrients to your dinner with this easy Sauteed Spinach. Baby spinach is added to a skillet along with garlic and olive oil, then sauteed gently to create a simple side dish that pairs with any meal!
This Easy Pineapple Salsa is light and fresh with just a hint of heat. It makes an amazing dip for chips but is also amazing as a topping for grilled fish, pork tacos or picadillo!
This Chimichurri Sauce recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make with simple ingredients & your blender or food processor. This cilantro chimichurri sauce for steak is also delicious with chicken, pork, seafood and roasted vegetables.
This fresh and vibrant Guacamole recipe is so easy! Mix it up in minutes for a creamy dip, a delicious topping for nachos, or to serve on Taco Tuesday.
Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips are made using store-bought corn tortillas. Just cut them into wedges, season them with Mexican spices, spray with oil & bake for a perfectly crispy, dippable chip!
This fresh, easy Pico de Gallo recipe is a classic Mexican salsa made from tomatoes, onions, lime, chiles, and cilantro. It’s a delicious snack to enjoy with chips or as a topping on tacos, eggs, and burrito bowls!
Israeli couscous with tomatoes is a delicious side dish. Pearl couscous tossed with burst cherry tomatoes & topped with a crispy garlic & shallot, chile oil.
These Air Fryer Pita Chips are a healthier alternative to deep-fried pita chips but don’t skimp on flavor or crunch! Easy to make with customizable flavors, they’re the perfect party snack to pair with your favorite dips and spreads.
Tostones are twice-fried plantains that are soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Here’s a tostones recipe you can make at home!Recipe: Foreign Fork
This Mexican Cornbread keeps all the moist and buttery sweetness of classic cornbread but adds two types of gooey melted shredded cheese and diced jalapeños for a spicy flavor kick. Super easy to make and perfect with soup, chili and more!Recipe: The Forked Spoon
Corn ribs – my new favourite way to eat corn on the cob. For the best, season before cooking, then douse with garlic butter after.Recipe: Recipe Tin Eats
Ceviche De Camaron is one of the ultimate healthy Mexican dishes. Fresh seafood + lots of “good for you” veggies, can’t get better than this!Recipe: Muy Delish
Did you Make Any of These Side Dishes for Picadillo?
Please leave a comment and rating below, if you loved this round up of delicious side dishes for picadillo. Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.
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Full Recipe
What to Serve with Picadillo: 20+ Side Dishes
A true classic in Latin American and Spanish kitchens, picadillo is a delicious dish made from ground beef and sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes, with spices like cumin and cinnamon. (Some versions even include ingredients like as olives, capers and raisins!) Forget spending hours searching for the perfect side dishes to complement your picadillo. I've done the work for you and compiled an amazing list of over 20 side dishes that pair wonderfully with this classic dish!
Heat 1 TBSP olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook the onions for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are translucent. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds longer, until fragrant.
Add the rice, 3 ½ cups broth, bay leaf and salt and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender.
Meanwhile, add the spinach, green onions, remaining ½ cup broth and 1 TBSP olive oil to a food processor or blender and process into coarse green paste.
Stir into the cooked rice and allow to stand, covered, for a few minutes.
Fluff rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!
Can I pour you a glass of wine? Let’s have some fun in the kitchen! Maybe some pasta? A juicy steak? I’ve got loads of yummy, easy recipes for you! Because cooking should feel as comfy as your favorite yoga pants. ♥
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