Held on May 5th, Cinco de Mayo is one of the most widely celebrated days each year. Celebrating victory and filled with lots of vibrant colors, here’s a guide to putting together the perfect menu this year. A delicious complement to all the fun, exciting events that will undoubtedly be happening!
The Picks!
With these recommendations, you are sure to be coming back to the kitchen every hour of the day. Here are some crowd-pleasers:
Appetizers
Chips + Guac: A classic! You can make this as easy or as creative as you want–homemade guacamole with avocados, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro is sure to make everybody happy.
Salsa Fresca: Another dip for your chips! Fresh tomatoes are great for a pre-summer celebration.
Queso Dip: And one more…because who doesn’t love cheese? This rotation of dips makes for a great balance between refreshing and hearty.
Mini Tacos: Easy to make, and a teaser of the main dish. Any fillings work–maybe some chicken or carnitas–the list goes on and on.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Garnished with chili powder and lime. Who doesn’t like some corn as an appetizer?
Tostadas: A toasted tortilla filled with meat or seafood and topped with refried beans, shredded lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes–a little bit of everything for a whole lot of fun.Â
Nachos: The one you’ve been waiting for. A great appetizer for all ages.
Main Dishes
Tacos: Here we go! Setting up a DIY taco station could be a fun idea–not only does this ensure that everyone gets the taco of their dreams, but it also makes it easier on you.
Enchiladas: Rolled corn tortillas filled with your choice of protein (maybe with some extra cheese or beans) and topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese. A side of rice and beans, for a filling meal.
Fajitas: Marinated meat or seafood with bell peppers and onions! Serve however you’d like–maybe even as a side for some tacos.
Burritos: Add some large flour tortillas to your taco station for some burritos! Reach over to your appetizers list for a side of chips and salsa, too.
Tamales: Corn masa dough filled with pork, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. Wrapped in corn husks and steamed until cooked through, you might want to stock up on these–they might be gone in seconds.
Dessert
Churros: Fried pastries with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm!
Tres Leches Cake: A sponge cake soaked in a three milk mixture (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit!
Flan: Custard dessert made with delicious caramel sauce on top when served.
Mexican Chocolate Cake: Chocolate cake–but with a kick. Cinnamon and chili powder adds the perfect amount of spice!
Paletas: For a hot day, these Mexican-style popsicles will be perfect! You can go with fresh fruit or juice, or even coconut milk.
Drinks
Margaritas: A classic. Whether you want to go with the usual lime or some different flavors, serve cold and enjoy!
Mexican Beer
Horchata: A creamy and sweet rice milk beverage flavored with cinnamon and vanilla! Perfect for all ages and tastebuds.
Agua Fresca: Fruit-infused waters! Whether you choose watermelon, cucumber-lime, or pineapple, this is perfect for a hot day.
Mexican Hot Chocolate: If it’s not as hot or it’s the end of the day, Mexican hot chocolate (cocoa, cinnamon, and chili powder) is the perfect night cap.
While this list is not exhaustive, there is sure to be something that catches your eye. Feel free to mix and match these sweet and savory bits for your Cinco de Mayo Menu.
Something Fresh
As with any celebration, a personal twist is always a great idea! Feel free to add your spin to these recipes (based on dietary restrictions, personal preferences, etc.)–and have fun with this holiday!
