15 Mexican masterpieces to kick off Cinco de Mayo

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If you’re gearing up for Cinco de Mayo and need some recipe ideas, we’ve got you covered. From zesty tacos and loaded nachos to cool, refreshing drinks, the list below is packed with dishes that promise to be both easy to make and big on flavor. So, whether you’re throwing a big bash or just having a few friends over, these recipes are sure to make your celebration a hit.

Carne asada nachos on a sheet pan.
Carne Asada Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Beef Bowls

Mexican shredded beef bowls with plantains, rice and beans and peppers.
Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Beef Bowls. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Prepared in a slow cooker, this dish is an excellent choice for a hassle-free Cinco de Mayo meal. It includes shredded beef, rice, beans, plantains, and peppers, offering a well-rounded meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Beef Bowls

Serrano Cucumber Margarita

Serrano cucumber margarita with black salt rim.
Serrano Cucumber Margarita. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This spicy and refreshing margarita combines serrano and cucumber, ideal for a festive and lively happy hour at your Cinco de Mayo party.
Get the Recipe: Serrano Cucumber Margarita

Carne Asada Nachos

Carne asada nachos on a sheet pan.
Carne Asada Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These nachos are loaded with freshly grilled carne asada steak, pico de gallo, cheese, guacamole, jalapeños, lime crema, and cilantro, making them a standout dish for any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada Nachos

Blackened Salmon Tacos

Blackened salmon tacos in blue tortillas.
Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Topped with quick pickled radishes, red onion, and avocado cilantro cream, these tacos served on blue corn tortillas make for a flavorful bite. They’re a great seafood option for your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

Sopa de Lima

Sopa de lima in a bowl with lime slice garnish and cilantro.
Sopa de Lima. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Originating from Cancún’s Mexico Lindo Cooking School, this lime soup embodies the traditional flavors of the Yucatán, making it a culturally rich addition to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Lima

BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

BBQ pulled pork nachos on a plate.
BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cheddar cheesy with BBQ pulled pork, these nachos are loaded with fresh toppings like pickled red onions and cilantro. Add beans, corn, and tomatoes for a fuller meal, perfect for pleasing a crowd.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Mexican ground beef skillet recipe with melted cheese.
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pan meal uses taco seasoning for a robust flavor and can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for a quick Mexican-inspired meal during your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Brisket Nachos

Mexican nachos in a cast iron skillet.
Brisket Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Utilize leftover shredded beef brisket for these nachos, which are loaded with BBQ sauce and customizable toppings. They’re easy to prepare and great for a casual party setting.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Nachos

Mexican Stuffed Onions

Cheddar chicken stuffed purple onions on a plate with a fork.
Mexican Stuffed Onions. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These onions are filled with couscous, chicken, salsa, cilantro, and a generous amount of cheese, making them a vibrant option for your Cinco de Mayo celebration. They bring a playful twist to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Stuffed Onions

Mexican Pulled Pork Sliders

Mexican pulled pork sliders on a white plate.
Mexican Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These sliders feature slow-cooked pork in green salsa, offering a simple yet flavorful option for your festivities. They are ideal for serving as a snack or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Pulled Pork Sliders

Lamb Tacos

Lamb tacos with radishes, red onions, onions and sliced green chiles.
Lamb Tacos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Opt for something different with these tacos filled with shredded braised lamb, offering a rich alternative to the traditional beef fillings.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Tacos

Jicama Salad

Julienned jicama, mango and pepper salad with a honey lime dressing in a metal bowl.
Jicama Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This salad mixes jicama, mango, red pepper, and cucumber with a honey lime dressing, offering a refreshing side that pairs well with any grilled dish or Mexican meal.
Get the Recipe: Jicama Salad

Mexican Vegetable Soup

Mexican vegetable soup with quinoa in a bowl.
Mexican Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This soup is rich in nutrients with quinoa, making it a hearty vegetarian choice that’s ready in less than 20 minutes. It’s easily adaptable to whatever veggies you have, making it a practical choice for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Vegetable Soup

Margarita Ice Pops

Margarita ice pops on ice with lime slices and cilantro.
Margarita Ice Pops. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Coconut cilantro margarita ice pops serve as a fun and refreshing way to enjoy a drink, perfect for cooling down during your celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Margarita Ice Pops

Blackened Shrimp Tacos

Blackened shrimp tacos with jalapeño corn salsa.
Blackened Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Featuring a homemade salsa with cherries, grilled corn, and jalapeños, these tacos are a fantastic summer meal choice, blending sweet and spicy tastes for your Cinco de Mayo.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Tacos

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