Recipes for Your Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Dust off that molcajete and get ready to whip up some guacamole, because Cinco de Mayo is upon us. Take advantage of the holiday and throw a Mexican celebration of epic proportions!

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo isn’t actually Mexico’s Independence Day (it’s September 16, for the record). Instead, the fifth of May memorializes the triumph of the underdog Mexican army over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. But enough history lessons – are you ready to party like it’s 1862?

From flavorful fajitas to cool, refreshing salads to guac, there’s no shortage of traditional Mexican spreads when it comes to these celebrations, and we’ve got the recipes you need to make your fiesta the most happenin’ one on the block. And yes, we know all of the food can get a little overwhelming, so if you want healthier versions of calorie-laden favorites, then tempt your taste buds with these 12 recipes:

 

Apps and Dips

1. Classic Mexican Guacamole – Of course this has to be first on the list! There are endless guac possibilities, but when in doubt, keep it simple! This classic and chunky recipe from Avocados From Mexico uses minimal ingredients in the perfect amounts to let avocados star front and center.

2. Pico de Gallo – You could run to the store and pick up the pre-made kind … or you could quickly chop up tomatoes, onions, and cilantro and make your own. This recipe is super simple and full of fresh flavor and heat. You won’t regret DIY-ing this one.

3. Mango Salsa – This salsa is so versatile, you can use it as a dip, or make a big batch and also serve over chicken or fish! This colorful salsa is super easy to make, as well as being sweet, spicy, and absolutely delicious.

4. Black Bean Tortilla Soup – This broth-based soup is the healthier version of the classic Mexican tortilla soup. Make extra for tomorrow’s lunch or another night, and experience even richer tastes when you dig into the leftovers.

5. Classic Ceviche – Combine fish (or shrimp) with lime juice and spicy chiles and take your taste buds on a refreshing trip south of the border.

 

Sides

6. Chickpea, Avocado, and Feta Salad – When you’re hosting a get-together, you need to get food on the table fast. This recipe is just the thing. Serve up a heart-healthy, filling combination of nutty garbanzo beans, avocado, zesty lime, and tangy feta to get the party started.

7. Mexican Chopped Salad – This bright and colorful take on the classic chopped salad includes charred peppers, tangy tomatillos, crunchy jicama and creamy avocado.

8. Southwestern Black Bean Salad – The star of this salad is the black bean, a nutritional powerhouse that deserves to be the centerpiece of your party! A tasty hint of lime, with the added kick of jalapeño, make this salad a bit different from the usual.

 

Main Dish

9. Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas – If you’re slammed with party prep, throw your ingredients into the slow cooker in the a.m. and come home to a pot full of delicious carnitas begging to be wrapped up in a tortilla and topped off with a fresh, homemade salsa.

10. Chicken Fajita Bake – Turn classic fajitas into a quick-prep dinner bake that everyone will devour. With spices already on hand, it only takes four ingredients and a couple of steps. And the best part? It’s all baked together in one sheet pan – making clean up a breeze!

11. Black Bean and Salmon Tostadas – Pickled jalapeños, cilantro, and avocado perk up your salmon for a quick tostada topping. The layers of flaky salmon, creamy black bean spread, crunchy cabbage, and tangy sour cream really sing!

12. Grilled Salmon Soft Tacos – Fish tacos are all the rage, and for good reason. These bad boys take only about 20 minutes to prepare, and they’re well worth it. These are topped with cabbage slaw, citrus salsa, and cilantro crema, keeping them light and flavorful. Delicioso!

Share this articleShare on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterPin on Pinterest

Leave a Reply

Top Stories

Not a member? Sign Up

Got an idea for us?

Email: news@ahealthieramerica.org