Cinco de Mayo is this weekend. I don’t celebrate like I did in college, but I still love marking the day with authentic Mexican food prepared at home.
Do you know what Cinco de Mayo commemorates? Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, marks the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States it has grown into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, especially in communities with large Mexican-American populations.
If crowds aren’t your thing, consider celebrating at home with a delicious spread. Here are a few of my favorite dishes that are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
One of my go-to recipes is my Grilled Beef Fajitas. They’re simple to make and come together quickly—the marinade has just three ingredients. Most people use flank steak for fajitas, but my family prefers boneless sirloin. Flank can be tough or stringy if not prepared perfectly, while a good sirloin delivers consistent tenderness and flavor.
No Cinco de Mayo feast feels complete without guacamole. I love guacamole in so many ways—on sandwiches, as a soup topping, on toast, on eggs, or even blended into smoothies. One of my favorites is a mango guacamole served with homemade tortilla chips; its sweet and savory balance is irresistible.
I also have a soft spot for a rich, cheesy dip. If you’re craving something ooey and gooey, try my hot cheese dip—it’s indulgent and always a crowd-pleaser.
If heavy, rich dishes aren’t what you want, consider lighter but flavorful options like chicken, corn, and black bean enchiladas. These offer satisfying texture and bright flavors without weighing you down.
Another classic is chicken tortilla soup. It’s comforting, easy to make in larger batches, and perfect for serving a group. This soup showcases the savory, tangy, and warming notes that make Mexican cuisine so memorable.
For a healthier yet addictive appetizer, try Skinny Loaded Sweet Potato Bites. They deliver bold flavor while remaining a lighter option—great for guests who want something tasty but not heavy.
Whether you’re deciding between going out to celebrate or hosting a small gathering at home, these recipes give you delicious, approachable options. Share them with family and friends and enjoy a relaxed, flavorful Cinco de Mayo.
So what are you waiting for? Enjoy great food with friends and remember to drink responsibly.
Tools I used to make these dishes: