Before gearing into the festivities, you may be wondering, “What is Cinco de Mayo?” Though it is fairly common to associate the holiday to Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo is truly a representation of Mexican resistance to foreign interventions, commemorating a military victory over France, and is actually a bigger celebration in the U.S. than in Mexico. But the reality is Mexican history is part of American history, producing the concept of “Tex-Mex,” and harmonizes and applauds antiquity together. So this May 5th, honor and toast to culture, history, and cuisine with this Cinco de Mayo party menu!
Your Ultimate Cinco de Mayo Party Menu
Apps and Dips
1. Homemade Salsa
Whether traditional, peach and tomato, or chipotle bacon corn, all Cinco de Mayo party menus should feature a homemade salsa!
2. Guacamole
Now onto salsas counterpart… Guacamole! Avocado supplies healthy fat, though moderating its consumption is important related to its high calorie content. So rather than countless chips, keep servings and portions in check with these guacamole cups.
3. Edamole
Swap out avocado with edamame to create edamole. Packed with flavor, fiber, and protein, the guac alternative is sure to please! Pair with raw veggie slices or homemade tortilla chips.
4. Taco Dip
Bursting with tasty ingredients and nutrients, this taco dip is sure to be a hit this Cinco de Mayo! Serve with tortilla or plantain chips.
5. Ceviche
Fresh, colorful, and nutritious, this ceviche recipe is perfect for your Cinco de Mayo party menu!
Sides
6. Mexican Street Corn
Liven up traditional corn on the cob with a flavorful Mexican twist. This street corn recipe features the fresh flavors of crema, lime and lemon juice, and cilantro, all sure to excite the taste buds!
7. Mexican Rice
Low in sodium and ample in fresh veggies, this quick Mexican brown rice is a simple, nourishing side dish for your Cinco de Mayo party.
8. Spicy Black Beans with Veggies
With just a few common ingredients, transform a can of black beans into a savory, nutritious side dish. This spicy black beans and vegetables recipe can easily be thrown together and easily adapted, including the addition of other favorite veggies or tweaked heat level.
9. Refried Beans
This healthier “refried” beans recipe is low in fat and packed with protein and fiber. The Cinco de Mayo side dish is also cost-friendly and requires little effort on your end to prepare.
Soups and Salads
10. Hatch Green Chile and Pork Stew
Crafted with the perfect combinations and flavored with hominy, tomatoes, green bell peppers, masa flour, cilantro and Hatch Green Chile, this pork stew recipe is sure to get those taste buds dancing this Cinco de Mayo.
11. Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
This chicken tortilla soup is not only bursting with flavor and nutrients, but is simple to make thanks to the help of a slow cooker. Serve with a few tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, and scallions.
12. Taco Salad
Ten ingredients, one well-balanced dish! Cohere the traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine into a healthy taco salad.
13. Mexican Chopped Salad
Fresh lime juice, honey, and garlic… And that is just for the dressing! This Mexican chopped salad is fresh, nutritious, and downright delicious.
Entrees
14. Tacos
Okay, what is Cinco de Mayo without tacos? From Thai chicken, to carne asade, to chickpea, find 11 taco variations for your Cinco de Mayo menu.
15. Beef Fajitas
Healthy and easy, this beef fajita recipe can be prepared in a quick 15 minutes! Feel free to swap out beef with chicken and shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
16. Chicken Enchiladas
These chicken enchiladas are a lighter rendition of that traditional favorite. Chicken can be swapped with lean beef or shrimp or with beans and quinoa for a vegetarian option.
17. Farmer’s Market Vegetarian Quesadillas
This vegetarian quesadilla is bursting with color and nutrients. Swap out or add veggies based on preference, including tomatoes, mushrooms, and spinach.
18. Mexican Lasagna
The traditions of Mexico and Italy harmonize into this Mexican lasagna. Chicken can be swapped for ground turkey or beef based on preference, including the dismissal of meat altogether. Top with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, scallions, and shredded lettuce.
Desserts
19. Fried Ice Cream
Skip the deep fryer and mimic the taste of traditional Mexican fried ice cream with this healthier-for-you dessert recipe.
20. Mexican Chocolate Cake
Featuring cayenne pepper or chili powder, celebrate Cinco de Mayo by relishing on a slice of this Mexican chocolate cake!
Beverages
21. Strawberry Margarita
The average frozen margarita packs on 300 to 600 calories, primarily coming from added sugars. However, this guilt-free strawberry margarita recipe features five natural ingredients and a mere 150 calories per serving!
22. Purely Pomegranate Mojito
Although recognized as a festive holiday drink, bistroMD believes this purely pomegranate mojito should be enjoyed all year, including on Cinco de Mayo!
23. Horchata
This cinnamon-flavored rice drink is a quick alternative to traditional horchata and imitates the same desirable flavors. Although the recipe is nonalcoholic, feel free to add a splash of rum if desired.
