It’s time to fiesta! As we approach the annual celebration of Mexico’s victory over French forces on May 5th, many of us are looking for delicious and easy ways to bring the flavors of Mexico into our homes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these 20 festive Cinco de Mayo recipes will help you throw a party that your friends and family won’t forget. From classic fajitas and tacos to innovative twists on traditional dishes like churros and corn salad, we’ve got you covered with the simplest, most flavorful ideas for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Quick Chicken Fajitas
Savor the flavors of sizzling chicken and bell peppers with this speedy fajita recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, it’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked chicken mixture onto tortillas. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Beef Street Tacos
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional tacos, this recipe uses ground beef cooked with spices and served in a crispy street taco shell with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas (street taco shells)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and your desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Guacamole with Lime
This classic recipe is a staple for any gathering, and adding a squeeze of lime juice takes it to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying creamy, tangy goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until mostly smooth.
3. Add the lime juice, red onion, and garlic to the bowl.
4. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
No-Bake Churro Bites
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats that capture the essence of churros without the need for deep-frying. These no-bake churro bites are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Once set, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form into bite-sized balls.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake churro bites are ready in just 30 minutes.
Speedy Mexican Corn Salad
This vibrant salad is a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional corn salad. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this tasty side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe is a twist on traditional enchiladas, using the Instant Pot to cook tender chicken and creamy sauce. With minimal prep work and hands-on time, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend lunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned (3-4 minutes).
3. Add enchilada sauce and stir to combine.
4. Place 2 tortillas in the pot, slightly overlapping.
5. Pour half of the chicken mixture over tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by quick release.
Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings (such as diced tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado). Enjoy!
5-Ingredient Salsa Verde
This 5-Ingredient Salsa Verde recipe is a simple yet flavorful condiment perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, you’ll be enjoying this tasty salsa in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
2. Blend until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
4. Continue blending until the salsa reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal.
Easy Margarita Shrimp Skewers
Easy Margarita Shrimp Skewers
Get ready to impress your friends with this deliciously simple appetizer that combines the flavors of margaritas and shrimp. Perfect for parties, tailgating, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons tequila (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, tequila, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite margarita-inspired dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Fast Mexican Black Bean Soup
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional black bean soup, with the added convenience of being quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this soup is packed with fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the bell pepper and cook until tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and black beans.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Nacho Bake
Get ready to satisfy your nacho cravings with this easy-to-make, one-pan wonder. This recipe combines the flavors of melted cheese, savory ground beef, and crunchy tortilla chips in a single dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 bag (12-14 oz) of tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the enchilada sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Top with shredded cheese and tortilla chips.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Queso Dip with Chorizo
This flavorful dip is a twist on traditional queso, featuring spicy chorizo sausage and melted cheese. Perfect for snacking or as a game-day gathering favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chorizo sausage
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and half-and-half. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
2. Add chopped chorizo sausage, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the dip reaches desired temperature.
4. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Mexican Rice
Add a flavorful twist to your meal with this simple and delicious Mexican rice recipe. This classic dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and it’s easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
No-Fry Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles is a popular Mexican dish that typically involves frying tortilla chips, but this recipe takes a healthier approach by baking them instead. This breakfast or brunch option is perfect for a crowd-pleasing morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional: cooked sausage, black beans, or avocado for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tortillas into quarters and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin. Toss to coat.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine the baked tortilla chips with the tomato mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Top with shredded cheese and any desired add-ins (e.g., cooked sausage or black beans).
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Chicken Tinga Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of chicken tinga with the crunch of fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining sauce.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken onto a tortilla, topping with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and queso fresco.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Speedy Pico de Gallo
Fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes! This speedy pico de gallo recipe is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or cherry)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick-pickled, so it’s ready in just a few minutes.
Effortless Flour Tortillas
Effortless Flour Tortillas: A Simple Recipe for Homemade Goodness
These tender and pliable tortillas are perfect for wrapping up your favorite fillings or using as a base for tacos, burritos, and more. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy homemade flour tortillas without the fuss.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water while kneading with your hands until dough forms.
3. Knead for an additional 5 minutes to develop gluten.
4. Cover dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth for 30 minutes.
5. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
8. Cook tortillas for 30 seconds on each side, until lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Cilantro Lime Rice
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, infused with the freshness of cilantro and the zing of lime!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork to combine the flavors.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick Refried Beans
For a flavorful and filling side dish, try this simple recipe for Quick Refried Beans. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious accompaniment to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree the beans to your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Fast Mexican Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy mousse infused with the bold flavors of Mexico. Perfect for a quick treat or a dinner party dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the dry ingredients until well combined.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
6. Stir in the Kahlúa, if using.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Simple Carnitas Sliders
Simple Carnitas Sliders Recipe
Get ready to serve up a flavorful and tender Mexican-inspired treat with these Simple Carnitas Sliders! Perfect for a crowd, this recipe yields soft, juicy pork and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and queso fresco (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork shoulder, lard or oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and braise for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble sliders by placing shredded pork onto warmed tortillas, then top with your desired toppings (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (braising) + 5 minutes (warming tortillas)
Summary
Get ready to fiesta with these 20 easy and festive Cinco de Mayo recipes! From classic fajitas and tacos to delicious dips, salads, and desserts, we’ve got you covered. Try our Quick Chicken Fajitas, Easy Beef Street Tacos, or Simple Guacamole with Lime for a flavorful start. Don’t forget our No-Bake Churro Bites and Speedy Mexican Corn Salad for sweet and savory treats. Plus, discover Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas, 5-Ingredient Salsa Verde, and more! These simple recipes are perfect for your Cinco de Mayo celebration or any day of the year.
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