I cannot think of a cuisine in the United States that has a more broad appeal than Mexican food. Granted my locality lends itself to an abundance of good Mexican food with influence from the Southwest as well. I think for me discovering my love for the spicy, earthy flavors so young it’s my ‘go to’ for a festive mood with relaxed ease. It is not fussy food to prepare or to eat. Even when dining at the upscale Rick Bayless Mexican restaurants in Chicago there was no pretense.
Like St. Patrick’s Day, the holiday of Cinco de Mayo had been adopted by many as their own and as an opportunity to celebrate. We have a special local Mexican restaurant with some divey overtones and an outdoor patio that can’t be beat. It seems to change hands every few years but fortunately is under new ownership serving up healthy ‘fresh Mex’ down to their Margaritas. That will be our choice for Cinco de Mayo but I know there are many areas where Mexican food, or Mexican-inspired food is not as readily available. I’ve whipped together a list of ideas that should suite any climate or food preference. They are not all bonafide Mexican dishes but all bear the spice and personality of traditional Mexican food even if in an adapted form!
However you plan to spend Cinco de Mayo, may you be surrounded by good friends and good food!
Starters
Cheesy Ham and Black Bean Nachos
Salsas
Main Dishes
Smoked Chorizo Soft Tacos with Grilled Peach and Corn Salsa
Chipotle Chicken Soft Tacos and Pepper Jack Quesadilla
Grilled Coffee-rubbed Bison Tacos
Desserts
Cinnamon-Sugar Gluten Free Churros
Libations (alcoholic and not)
Smoky Watermelon Jalapeno Margarita
Watermelon infused Tequila Margaritas
Champagne Mango-Lime Agua Fresca
Come check out even more recipes in the Cinco de Mayo Recipe section!
Carolyn says
I so have to pin these to my cocktail board. I look forward to the day we can have a cocktail together, Toni!
Toni Dash says
That is the nicest comment I’ve had! I too look forward to that and I’m sure there is a conference overlap in our future! Thanks for pinning.
Batya says
These look terrific and I see my favorite for grilled peach and corn salsa! All of these will work well for the baby shower I’ll be attending before I head over for a Cinco de Mayo bash. Nice collection!
Toni Dash says
I’m so glad! These recipes are all delicious to me with beautiful full flavors too!
The Mom Chef ~ Taking on Magazines One Recipe at a Time says
I LOVE this round-up! We don’t do anything for Cinco de Mayo (or St. Patrick’s for that matter), but I’m willing to forego our non-partying for one of those meals. I remember drooling over the Tijuana Train Wreck when you first posted it so that just may be dinner.
Toni Dash says
Sounds like you now have a plan for Cinco de Mayo Christiane! Tijuana Train Wreck is very easy and fun anytime I think! And we just got a load of snow so the fact it’s warm sounds good too!
Mr. & Mrs. P says
Awesome collection of Mexican dishes!!!
Toni Dash says
So glad you like them! It is definitely one of my favorite types of food.