Dishes like parrillada and fajitas can be found on the menu of Latin American restaurants that boast a diverse selection of grilled meat.  

Parrillada and fajitas consists of marinated and grilled meats, often served with accompaniments like tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and other condiments.  

People might find them hard to tell apart because they both involve savory grilled meats, but the distinction lies in the composition, as well as their presentation 

In this post, we’ll go over what these dishes are and highlight the differences between them. 

What is parillada?

Parrillada is a traditional Latin American barbecue dish featuring an assortment of grilled meats.  

The common components include beef cuts like ribs, sausages, and flank steak, often seasoned with spices or marinades. It may also include chicken, pork, or lamb.  

The presentation typically involves arranging the grilled meats on a platter, showcasing the variety and flavors.  

It is a perfect meal for gatherings enjoyed among a group of people.  

What are fajitas?

Fajitas are a Tex-Mex dish consisting of grilled and sliced meat, commonly beef, chicken, or shrimp, served with sautéed peppers and onions.  

The meat is marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices, lime juice, and oil before grilling or pan-cooking.  

The result is tender, flavorful strips of meat with a slightly charred exterior. 

The sautéed vegetables add a crisp texture and enhance the overall taste.  

Fajitas are often served with tortillas, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. 

Difference between parrillada and fajitas

While both dishes involve grilling, parrillada consists of a mixed grill of various meats, whereas fajitas focus on grilled strips of meat served with accompaniments. 

Parrillada typically refers to a mixed grill featuring various meats such as beef, pork, chicken, and sometimes sausages.  

These meats are often marinated and then grilled, offering a diverse range of flavors and textures. Parrillada is usually served on a platter, showcasing the variety of meats cooked together. 

On the other hand, fajitas are known for grilled strips of meat, commonly beef or chicken, often cooked with onions and bell peppers.  

The meats are typically marinated before grilling, and the grilled meats are commonly served with tortillas, allowing diners to assemble the meat into wraps with additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.