12 Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

We know Cinco de Mayo isn’t quite celebrated in Mexico like it is in this country (Cinco de Drinko!), but we love any reason to dig into delicious Mexican fare. Here, I’ve compiled a few of my favorite recipes for a May 5th party, from fresh tomatillo salsa to tacos al pastor and chilaquiles.

 

Achiote Roasted Pork with Tomato-Habanero Salsa

Serve this achiote-scented roasted pork shoulder with habanero-tomato salsa, lots of fresh corn tortillas, limes and cilantro. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Fresh Tomatillo Salsa

This fresh tomatillo salsa has a tangy, herby, citrusy flavor with an extra kick from the jalapenos and poblanos chiles. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Thick Chile Salsa

You could use this chile salsa on the table at any meal, to braise pork, seafood or chicken, to accompany grilled beef, as a sauce for tamales, enchiladas… you name it. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Tacos al Pastor with Salsa Roja

Short of investing in a vertical broiler, this hack is the closest you’ll get to al pastor tacos at home. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

This chipotle-infused pineapple salsa pairs beautifully with any grilled meat or fish. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Chilaquiles with Salsa Roja & Fried Eggs

I like to serve this classic Mexican morning fare for dinner with my tomatillo-avocado salsa on the side. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Mexican Pork Burgers with Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa

These pork burgers, studded with bold Mexican flavors, are a perfect alternative to the typical beef patty for  your next backyard barbecue. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Black Beans

When I was in Oaxaca, I ate the simplest bean recipe that exists and it blew my mind. I’ve been playing around with the idea ever since. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Nachos with Queso Fundido

I serve this dish all the time at house parties, for both adults and kids. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Shrimp with Green Chiles & Avocado-Tomatillo Sauce

This simple dinner is deceptively complex. You can have dinner on the table in 15 minutes and the flavors are crazy good. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Tamarind Salsa

Tamarind puree gives this classic chipotle chile and tomato salsa a hint of sweetness. Get the recipe >>>

 

 

Guacamole with Pistachios & Smoked Cashew Salsa

Trust me, you’ll want to double these recipes from chef Alex Stupak. Get the recipes >>>