Cinco de Mayo is more than just a celebration of Mexican heritage—it’s a time to gather with friends and family, share delicious food, and enjoy festive drinks. The flavors of Mexico are rich and diverse, and this collection of 10 Cinco de Mayo recipes will make your celebration unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a large party or having an intimate gathering, these recipes are sure to delight your guests and leave them craving more.
From savory tacos to decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. Get ready to experience bold flavors, vibrant colors, and mouthwatering dishes that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Let’s dive into these perfect Cinco de Mayo recipes!
1. Birria de Res Tacos
Birria de Res is a traditional Mexican beef stew that is both rich and flavorful. The slow-cooked beef is seasoned with a variety of spices and chilies, creating a savory, melt-in-your-mouth dish. To make Birria de Res Tacos, the beef is shredded and then served in a warm corn tortilla, often with a side of consommé (the flavorful broth) for dipping. The Birria de Res Tacos are the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and tender, making them a Cinco de Mayo favorite.
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The recipe for Birria de Res Tacos requires several key ingredients, including beef chuck, ancho chilies, cloves, and cinnamon. The slow braising process ensures the beef is incredibly tender, while the consommé adds depth of flavor. You can serve these tacos with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added freshness. Whether you’re making them at home or enjoying them from your favorite taco truck, Birria de Res Tacos are a must-try.
2. Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta
For a lighter yet flavorful option, Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta bring a Mediterranean twist to your Cinco de Mayo table. The chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Greek spices, then grilled to perfection. Topped with whipped feta, this dish is creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.
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The whipped feta takes this dish to the next level, adding a smooth and creamy texture that perfectly complements the smoky grilled chicken. Pair these chicken breasts with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s a light and refreshing option that balances out some of the richer dishes typically found on Cinco de Mayo.
3. Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
Looking for a fusion dish that combines bold flavors with a quick cooking time? Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is a perfect solution. This stir-fry features tender strips of beef, crispy broccoli, and a savory soy-based sauce, all served over ramen noodles for a comforting yet exciting dish. It’s an easy way to bring the flavors of both Mexican and Asian cuisines together.
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The key to making this stir fry stand out is the garlic soy sauce, which brings a salty umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and broccoli. You can also add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the flavor and texture. This dish is quick to make and is ideal for a busy Cinco de Mayo celebration.
4. Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake
No Cinco de Mayo celebration is complete without a sweet treat, and Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake is the perfect dessert to end the meal. Layers of creamy vanilla and strawberry ice cream are sandwiched between a crunchy cookie crust, making for a refreshing and indulgent dessert that everyone will love.
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This ice cream cake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy hosts who don’t want to worry about dessert on the day of the party. You can also customize the cake by adding fresh strawberries or other fruits for added flavor. The chocolate chip cookie crust adds a nice contrast to the creamy ice cream layers, making this dessert a delightful option for your Cinco de Mayo spread.
5. No-Bake Millionaire’s Shortbread
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both rich and indulgent without the need for an oven, No-Bake Millionaire’s Shortbread is an excellent choice. This treat features a buttery shortbread base, a caramel filling, and a layer of chocolate ganache on top, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
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The best part about this dessert is that it’s no-bake, meaning you can prepare it in just a few simple steps. The caramel layer is made from condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar, creating a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The chocolate ganache on top adds a luxurious finish that everyone will appreciate.
6. Swirled Rhubarb Bars
For a vibrant and slightly tangy dessert, Swirled Rhubarb Bars are the perfect option for your Cinco de Mayo menu. These bars feature a buttery crust topped with a creamy rhubarb filling that’s swirled for added visual appeal. The tartness of the rhubarb contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the creamy filling, creating a unique and flavorful treat.
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You can serve these rhubarb bars chilled or at room temperature, and they make a wonderful addition to a dessert table. The swirled pattern not only looks beautiful but also enhances the texture and flavor of the dessert. If you’re looking to introduce your guests to something new, this is the perfect choice.
7. Chocolate Sourdough Discard Cookies
Repurpose your sourdough discard into a sweet treat with these decadent Chocolate Sourdough Discard Cookies. The sourdough adds a subtle tang to the cookies, which perfectly complements the rich chocolate chunks. These cookies are chewy on the inside and slightly crispy on the edges, making them a delightful addition to your Cinco de Mayo spread.
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These cookies are an excellent way to use up sourdough starter discard, which often goes to waste. The chocolate chunks and the slight tang from the sourdough create a flavor combination that’s unique and indulgent. Serve them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage for the ultimate treat.
8. 3-Ingredient Ranch Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer, and 3-Ingredient Ranch Deviled Eggs are a simple and flavorful twist on the traditional version. These deviled eggs are made with ranch dressing, hard-boiled eggs, and a bit of seasoning, making them a quick and easy snack for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.
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The ranch dressing gives the eggs a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, while the seasoning adds just the right amount of kick. These deviled eggs are easy to make in advance and are perfect for serving at a casual gathering or as a fun appetizer at a larger party.
9. Whisky Grilled Baby Back Ribs
For a hearty main course, Whisky Grilled Baby Back Ribs are sure to impress. The ribs are marinated in a whisky-based sauce that adds a deep, smoky flavor, and then they’re grilled to perfection. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors makes these ribs a standout dish for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.
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The whisky marinade gives the ribs a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the meat. The ribs are tender, juicy, and fall-off-the-bone delicious. Whether you’re serving them as the main course or as part of a larger spread, these ribs are sure to be a hit.
10. Zucchini Scarpaccia
For a savory, veggie-packed dish, Zucchini Scarpaccia is a perfect option. This Italian-inspired dish features thinly sliced zucchini baked in a savory custard, creating a soft and creamy texture with a slight crunch. It’s a great side dish that pairs well with all the other Cinco de Mayo recipes.
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The zucchini scarpaccia is flavorful yet light, making it a great addition to your Cinco de Mayo menu. The custard is made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, and it perfectly complements the zucchini. You can also add a bit of garlic for an extra boost of flavor.
FAQs About Cinco de Mayo Recipes
What are some popular Cinco de Mayo dishes?
Popular Cinco de Mayo dishes include Birria de Res Tacos, Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta, and Whisky Grilled Baby Back Ribs. These dishes feature bold flavors, rich spices, and fresh ingredients that celebrate Mexican and Latin American cuisine.
Can I make these recipes in advance?
Many of the Cinco de Mayo recipes can be made in advance, such as the No-Bake Millionaire’s Shortbread and Swirled Rhubarb Bars. Preparing dishes like these ahead of time allows you to focus on enjoying the celebration with your guests.
Are these recipes suitable for all dietary preferences?
Yes, several of the recipes, like Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta and Zucchini Scarpaccia, are versatile and can be modified to accommodate different dietary preferences, including gluten-free or vegetarian options.
Conclusion
Cinco de Mayo is the perfect opportunity to indulge in delicious food, celebrate with loved ones, and enjoy the festive spirit. With these 10 Cinco de Mayo recipes, you’ll have a menu that features a variety of flavors—from spicy and savory to sweet and refreshing. Each dish is designed to bring something unique to the table, ensuring that your celebration is as flavorful as it is fun.
Whether you’re craving a classic Birria de Res Taco or looking for a fresh twist on dessert with Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake, these recipes will elevate your Cinco de Mayo gathering. So get ready to cook, celebrate, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that define this special occasion!