Favorite Authentic Cinco de Mayo Foods

This collection of Mexican Cinco de Mayo foods will help you put together a festive, fun, and delicious menu to celebrate!

Is it even a party if there isn’t food?! That’s the best part! Get ready to excite your taste buds with delicious dishes celebrating Mexican heritage.

Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration on May 5. That day commemorates the Mexican military victory of the Battle of Puebla over the French Empire in 1862. Here in the United States, it’s a day to celebrate Mexican culture. The celebration is complete with Mexican cuisine!

This list of delicious Mexican-inspired recipes will help you put together a fabulous Cinco de Mayo menu. Make sure to bookmark this post because these dishes are perfect for any fiesta!

With everything from salsas, to appetizers, main courses, desserts, as well as drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), it’s easy to put together an entire spread. There’s something here for everyone.

Mix up a margarita, grab a chair, and stay a while!

Above: Virgin Mango Margarita Mocktail Recipe

Cinco de Mayo Drinks

Margaritas are the obvious choice when you’re looking for the perfect Cinco de Mayo drink! But a classic margarita is just the tip of the iceberg.

They come in just about any fruity flavor imaginable. For the ultimate refreshment, try a frozen margarita. Or try a virgin margarita for a non-alcoholic option.

Additionally, Cinco de Mayo drinks don’t stop at margaritas!

Frozen Berry Margarita Recipe

This sweet and fruity frozen berry margarita recipe whips up easily for a vibrant, refreshing cocktail. It’s perfect for an adult Cinco de Mayo fiesta, Taco Tuesday night, or any celebration!

Check out this recipe

Virgin Mango Margarita Mocktail Recipe with Meyer Lemon

This virgin mango margarita mocktail recipe with Meyer lemon is bursting with sweet and tangy fruit flavor. It’s the perfect family-friendly non-alcoholic drink for Cinco de Mayo or any summer party!

Check out this recipe

Hibiscus Iced Tea

You just need three ingredients to create this refreshing Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Iced Tea). While it originated in Jamaica, it's very popular in Mexico and Latin America, too!

Check out this recipe

Paloma Cocktail

Made with fresh grapefruit juice, grapefruit soda, lime, and tequila, this Mexican Paloma Cocktail is refreshing and citrusy, without being overly sweet. It’s perfect for Cinco de Mayo and a nice change from sipping on margaritas.

Check out this recipe

Honeydew Basil Spicy Margarita

If you love a good spicy margarita, then you have to try this recipe that uses honeydew and fresh basil. A little bit sweet and a little bit spicy, this margarita on the rocks is a must make for summertime!

Check out this recipe

Raspberry and Citrus Mezcal Cocktail

Smoky, slightly sweet and a bit tart, this refreshing mezcal cocktail is muddled with fresh raspberries and mint and garnished with a Tajin rim.

Check out this recipe

Above: Tomatillo Salsa from Flavor the Moments

Mexican Salsas

Salsas are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or topping your favorite tacos or rice bowl. Mexican salsas in particular are packed with the flavor and nutrition of fresh ingredients. Grab a corn chip or a spoon and dig in!

Pico de Gallo Recipe (Mexican Salsa Fresca)

Pico de Gallo Recipe (also called Mexican Salsa Fresca) takes just 10 minutes to make and transforms a few ordinary ingredients into a bright-flavored fresh salsa that you can pair with everything from tacos to tortilla chips, or eat on its own as a salad.

Check out this recipe

Tomatillo Salsa

You’ll never buy green salsa from the store again after trying this easy Tomatillo Salsa recipe! It’s fresh and vibrant and includes just a few simple ingredients. There’s no cooking involved, so it comes together in just 10 minutes!

Check out this recipe

Mango Habanero Salsa

This fresh and vibrant mango habanero salsa packs a spicy kick! The sweetness of a fresh juicy mango, herbaceous cilantro and onions, kissed with habanero is absolutely delicious. This habanero mango salsa recipe is going to have you coming back for seconds, if you can handle the heat!

Check out this recipe

Black Bean And Corn Salsa

Black bean and corn salsa is one of my favorite appetizers/snacks and it’s always a crowd favorite! It has such a deliciously fresh and vibrant flavor with just a perfect blend of ingredients. It is the perfect refreshing dip or topping.

Check out this recipe

Watermelon Pico de Gallo (Salsa)

For something sweet, spicy, and juicy for your Cinco de Mayo celebration, enjoy Watermelon Pico de Gallo.

Check out this recipe

Pineapple Salsa

This easy pineapple salsa recipe has everything you look for in a party appetizer! It's fresh, super delicious, sweet, savory and spicy at the same time. It's also vegan and gluten free.

Check out this recipe

Above: Mini Steak Quesadillas with Mushrooms from All That’s Jas

Mexican Appetizers

Cheesy dips, crunchy chips, and fresh ceviche! Mexican appetizers feature bold flavors and a variety of textures to keep it interesting as well as delicious.

Easy Low Carb Chile Relleno Dip (15 Minute Dip Recipe)

With three kinds of cheese and green chilies, this gooey low carb Chile Relleno Dip takes the cheese factor to the extreme and packs a punch of flavor!

Check out this recipe

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Ultra crispy air fryer tortilla chips are a healthier snack option and go perfectly with salsa and guacamole! The recipe has been tested with white and yellow corn tortillas and includes five different flavor options!

Check out this recipe

Fresh Mexican-Style Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado

You will just love this Mexican shrimp ceviche recipe. It’s a colourful and appetizing recipe with fresh shrimp, along with various salad ingredients and other flavours.

Check out this recipe

Mini Steak Quesadillas With Mushrooms

Mini Steak Quesadillas are filled with succulent beef, mushrooms, and melted cheese in a soft tortilla toasted until crisp. This crowd-pleasing appetizer comes together in less than 30 minutes!

Check out this recipe

Smoked Brisket and Beer Queso Dip

Grab the tortilla chips and serve up this creamy Smoked Brisket and Beer Queso. Fool-proof dump and go recipe that is quick and easy to make for Cinco de Mayo.

Check out this recipe

Mini Chicken Enchilada Cups

These Mini Chicken Enchilada Cups are a quick and easy way to do enchiladas! Customize them with your favorite toppings for a delicious Mexican dinner or party appetizer!

Check out this recipe

Palmito Ceviche (Vegan Hearts of Palm Ceviche)

This vegetarian ceviche made with hearts of palm makes for a delicious Cinco de Mayo appetizer. It's refreshing and zesty, tossed with fresh lime juice and served with chips or tostadas. This is a recipe everyone can enjoy!

Check out this recipe

Above: Black Beans Recipe

Cinco de Mayo Side Dishes

Rice and beans are staples in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. And for good reason! It’s because they’re hearty, nutrient-dense, and delicious! Any of these sides dishes would be a beautiful addition to a Cinco de Mayo menu.

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice made in the Instant Pot is full of flavor and really easy to make. And turns out light and fluffy every single time. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free.

Check out this recipe

Easy Creamy Refried Beans

Simple ingredients and a delicious spice blend make for Easy Creamy Refried Beans! Serve them as a side dish next to your favorite Mexican food or dress them up with toppings for the main event…you can't go wrong here. As a bonus: kids love them too!

Check out this recipe

Quinoa a la Mexicana

Quinoa a la Mexicana is a healthy and flavorful dish of quinoa, tomatoes, chiles, onion, and a simple lime and olive oil dressing. "A la Mexican" is the combination of tomatoes, chiles, and onion!

Check out this recipe

Crockpot Borracho Beans

These crockpot borracho beans are so easy to make with pinto beans. They’re absolutely delicious after they have been simmering all day.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Enchilada Rice

Instant Pot Enchilada Rice is a delicious Mexican casserole recipe that’s perfect for potlucks, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or an easy weeknight meal at home. Make this easy one-pot enchilada rice in just 30 minutes.

Check out this recipe

Black Beans Recipe

This easy, from-scratch Black Beans recipe combines bold savory flavors like onion, garlic, and smoky cumin with humble beans, and transforms them into something special. Two pantry-staple SECRET ingredients are added at the end to create a wonderfully balanced flavor profile!

Check out this recipe

Above: Fish Taco Bowls with Avocado Crema from Platings and Pairings

Salads for Cinco de Mayo

One of the best things about Mexican cuisine is how colorful it is. This is especially true of salads! What better way to eat the rainbow, right?!

You can integrate these salads into any Cinco de Mayo spread. Additionally, quite a few of them are satisfying as a stand-alone meal.

Turkey Taco Bowl Recipe

This Turkey Taco Bowl Recipe is a well-balanced, easy lunch or dinner that’s perfect for meal prep! These bowls are good for picky eaters too; you can set up a “taco bowl bar” so everyone can add their favorite toppings.

Check out this recipe

Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad

Delicious vegan Mexican chopped salad with avocado dressing makes the perfect lunch salad or an easy side dish to any Mexican feast. This gluten free salad is packed with fresh veggies, dietary fiber and plant based protein.

Check out this recipe

Flavorful Mexican Buddha Bowl

Try this 30-minute Mexican Buddha Bowl as a healthy Cinco de Mayo main dish! Bursting with flavors and textures, it’s a true hit with the whole family and easily customizable.

Check out this recipe

Mexican Avocado Salad

This tomato, cucumber, and avocado salad is a healthy Mexican side dish to serve alongside tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and more! With only five main ingredients, this side dish whips up in under 15 minutes.

Check out this recipe

Homemade Chipotle Burrito Bowl Recipe

Skip the takeaway and try this homemade chipotle burrito bowl instead! Layered with rice, ground beef, beans, corn, fresh veggies, and cheese, this quick and easy burrito bowl recipe is easily customized.

Check out this recipe

Fish Taco Bowls with Avocado Crema

30-minute Fish Taco Bowls with Avocado Crema make for a fresh, tangy, and zesty weeknight dinner. Super fun and a flavorful swap for everyday tacos!

Check out this recipe

Mexican Corn Salad Recipe

This Mexican Corn Salad Recipe combines buttered sweet corn, salty cotija cheese, bright cilantro and lime, and zippy jalapeno and garlic with a punchy, creamy dressing to cool it down.

Check out this recipe

Above: Short Rib Tostadas Recipe with Pineapple Salsa and Cotija Cheese

Latin American and Mexican Dinners

With Mexican and Latin American classics like enchiladas, tostadas, and picadillo, you will love cooking your way through this list! But don’t wait until Cinco de Mayo to cook these dinners. A lot of them are freezer-friendly. Because of this, these dishes are perfect for meal prep!

Green Chicken Enchiladas Recipe with Salsa Verde

This cheesy Green Chicken Enchiladas Recipe with Salsa Verde recipe boasts added nutrition from kale in a creamy, piquant sauce. Using rotisserie chicken makes it weeknight-friendly!

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Picadillo Recipe

Inspired by classic Cuban Beef Picadillo, this quick and easy Instant Pot spin on the traditional recipe includes sweet raisins, salty pimento-stuffed olives, and dry white wine.

Check out this recipe

Crispy Chile Rellenos

There are few things better in life than a Crispy Chile Relleno {Chili Relleno}, fried to golden perfection, stuffed with a roasted chilies and plenty of melted cheese.

Check out this recipe

Easy Beef Enchiladas

Easy simple and classic Beef Enchiladas made with few ingredients under 30 minutes. A fun recipe that is quick enough for a weeknight dinner or a delicious meal for the weekend!

Check out this recipe

Guacamole Chicken Melts

Chicken slathered with guacamole is a low-carb way to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo favorite.

Check out this recipe

Grilled Tajin-Seasoned Chicken Fajitas

With its mild heat and kick of lime, Tajin is the perfect seasoning to add to chicken fajitas. Juicy, tender and flavorful Grilled Tajin-Seasoned Chicken Fajitas with grilled peppers and onions are a fun, festive meal that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face!

Check out this recipe

Low Carb Beef Chili Recipe (Beanless Chili)

To keep the carbs down in this low carb beef chili recipe, we skip the beans (you won’t even miss them!). We use a combination of ground beef and ground sausage to pack a ton of flavor. And we don’t skimp on the vegetables!

Check out this recipe

Short Rib Beef Tostadas Recipe with Pineapple Salsa and Cotija

This short rib beef tostadas recipe with pineapple salsa and cotija features melt-in-your-mouth-tender meat paired with sweet and spicy fresh pineapple salsa. Cotija cheese adds creamy texture and a touch of salty flavor for a perfect balance.

Check out this recipe

Above: Flank Steak Tacos from My Baking Addiction

Taco Recipes for Cinco de Mayo

Bookmark this post for Taco Tuesday, Cinco de Mayo, or anytime you’re craving tacos! The beauty of tacos is how quick and easy they are to make. If you set up a taco bar with a variety of toppings, dinner is done!

Tilapia Fish Tacos Recipe with Cabbage Slaw

This 30-minute Tilapia Fish Tacos Recipe with Cabbage Slaw has just the right balance of sweet and spicy flavors, topped with a fresh crunchy cabbage slaw!

Check out this recipe

Flank Steak Tacos

If taco night is a weekly occurrence at your house, you’ll want to add these Flank Steak Tacos into the rotation! Top the marinated and grilled flank steak with pickled onions, avocado, and crema for a delicious homemade taco.

Check out this recipe

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Take the work out of dinner with these warm and juicy Crockpot Chicken Tacos. Made with mojito lime seasoning, hard cider, onion, and lime, you get the sweet, you get the spicy, and you get the good time!

Check out this recipe

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are the ultimate taco for shrimp lovers! Succulent shrimp are piled into warm tortillas and topped with a chunky tropical inspired salsa and a creamy, spicy chipotle crema.

Check out this recipe

Birria Tacos

Birria Tacos are pan-fried shredded meat tacos in a corn tortilla with a rich chili sauce. Goat or beef is slow cooked in an amazing warmly-spiced sauce for an incredible explosion of flavor.

Check out this recipe

Homemade Mighty Taco Beef Copycat

Deliciously seasoned with just the right touch of spice, this copycat recipe for homemade Mighty Taco Beef was inspired by the popular Buffalo taco joint. Now that I moved to the other end of the country, it's a life-saver when a hometown craving hits.

Check out this recipe

Above: Margarita Cupcakes from Barley & Sage

Cinco de Mayo Desserts

Let’s talk dessert! Tres leches cake, Mexican paletas, sweet tamales, churros, spiced Mexican chocolate, and fried ice cream to start. And the list goes on! These desserts are the perfect ending for your Cinco de Mayo celebration. They’re sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth!

Mexican-Spiced Triple Chocolate Muffins (Aka Mexican Hot Chocolate Muffins)

Mexican-Spiced Triple Chocolate Muffins are full of nutritious ingredients, and feature deep chocolate flavor with a hint of cinnamon and cayenne. If you’re a fan of Mexican Hot Chocolate, these muffins are for you!

Check out this recipe

Fried Ice Cream

Skip the deep fryer with this easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream. Creamy vanilla ice cream is coated in a buttery, crunchy cinnamon cornflake shell with a secret ingredient for even more texture and flavor. The chocolate and caramel syrup, whipped cream, and maraschino cherry are the perfect finish to this fun and simple dessert!

Check out this recipe

Lime Tamales

Traditional sweet Mexican Lime Tamales are perfect for Cinco de Mayo! Lime Tamales are a traditional Mexican sweet tamal.

Check out this recipe

Tres Leches Cake

This is the best authentic Tres Leches Cake recipe! A light sponge cake soaked in three different types of milk making it sweet, ultra moist, and crazy delicious. There’s nothing quite like this easy traditional Mexican dessert!

Check out this recipe

Mexican Paletas Popsicles

These colorful Mexican Paletas (fruity popsicles), made with four ingredients are easy to make and refreshing on hot summer days.

Check out this recipe

Margarita Cupcakes

Wish you could have your margarita and eat it too? These boozy margarita cupcakes are made with real tequila and topped with lime frosting!

Check out this recipe

Cajeta – Milk Caramel Sauce

Cajeta may be the most delicious caramel that you’ve never tasted. This milk caramel is luscious!

Check out this recipe

Churro Cheesecake Bites

These easy Churro Cheesecake Bites are a delicious dessert! You’ll be surprised at how easy they are to make too.

Check out this recipe

Margarita Bars

This margarita bars recipe is a dessert that comes together super fast. It’s perfect for Cinco De Mayo!

Check out this recipe

Easy Cocadas Recipe – Mexican Coconut Candies

Cocadas are coconut treats from Mexico. These soft, chewy coconut mounds are mixed with dulche de leche and studded with macadamia nuts. Cocadas are like macaroons, but much better!

Check out this recipe

Homemade Churros

Crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside Homemade Churros are made with just a few simple ingredients and fried until golden-brown, then rolled in cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy sweet exterior. Also known as Mexican donuts, this easy recipe for homemade churros are even better than the ones you get at Disneyland!

Check out this recipe

Mexican Chocolate Crème Brûlée

Mexican Chocolate Crème Brûlée is a fabulous Cinco de Mayo dessert. Every rich, chocolatey bite is subtly spiced with cinnamon, and the creamy texture is over the top! Whether you serve this for the holiday, or any day, it’s sure to make you happy.

Check out this recipe

Carlota de Limón (Mexican Lime Icebox Cake)

Carlota de Limon is a Mexican lime icebox cake that needs just 5 ingredients. So easy and mouthwatering.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Kahlua Flan

This Instant Pot Kahlua Flan has a silky smooth texture and it's swimming in caramel for the ultimate dessert served anytime of the year, not just for Cinco de Mayo!

Check out this recipe

Let’s Connect

I love hearing from you!
Did you enjoy this post? Please let me know.
You can also tag @anediblemosaic on social media.
To stay up-to-date, follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter!
xoxo, Faith