11 Must-Try Cinco de Mayo Menu Ideas

Welcome guests for a casual and energetic Cinco de Mayo party. Keep the party planning simple if time is tight, or go all out with an elaborate spread with your choice of these tasty and upbeat Cinco de Mayo party ideas.

Nachos with guacamole or black bean dip on the side. Let each guest build a plate of nachos to his or her own personal preference.

Tortillas with salsa and queso dip are great for snacking while waiting on the meal, or to enjoy as a side dish.

Fish tacos let you put a lighter twist on the traditional taco. Switch out the beef or pork you would usually use, and replace with grilled fish or cubes of fried fish.

Beef burritos provide an authentic Mexican flavor. Each guest can pick their own fillings, or you can make up a batch ahead of time to save time in the serving line.

Chicken fajitas are tasty, and are a lighter protein source for fit-minded guests to enjoy. For an extra-light flavor, mix 2 or 3 tablespoons of Italian dressing in the chicken instead of Mexican spices.

Pork enchiladas have shredded pork rolled inside the tortillas, and are served with a light chili sauce on top. For guests who prefer a completely different flavor, consider topping some with a mild barbecue sauce.

Build-your-own taco salad fixings let everyone grab a plate and choose their favorites. Set out bowls of lettuce, cheese, sour cream, cheese and any other toppings you want to add.

Cocktails and mocktails to consider include tequila-based drinks, margaritas and non-alcoholic mojitos.

Churros are fried dough pastries. The fried dough gets dipped into sugar or cinnamon. These are good served alone, or along with a dip like chocolate or fruit salsa.

Fruit tacos are sweet, fried tortilla shells filled with sweetened cream cheese and each guest's choice of fruit toppings.

Fresh cubed fruit for dipping in yogurt or chocolate dip is a healthy dessert option to serve when you want something light. It delivers the sweetness some people want after a meal, and it's an easy dessert for guests to enjoy while chatting.

Colorful decorations like pinatas and party streamers help create the ambiance. Authentic Mexican-themed terracotta and colorful ceramic dishes add a pretty, themed touch when serving the food. Finally, just add some background music to get the party started.

According to the History Channel, Cinco de Mayo, or May fifth, is a popular day to honor Mexican culture. This is a great day to enjoy the warm spring weather and make memories with the people in your life. Share some savory foods, refreshing icy drinks and festive Cinco de Mayo decorations with the people you love.

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