Cinco de Mayo Recipes

Did you know that Cinco de Mayo isn’t actually Mexico’s Independence Day? (That’s September 16.)

Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

It’s celebrated in the United States, as well as Puebla, where the victory occurred. But it’s not widely celebrated in Mexico like some might assume, given how big the celebrations can be in the United States.

While many use it as an excuse to drink margaritas and eat tacos, I feel that it’s really important to point out the history and take a moment to recognize what actually happened on this day, as well as stand in solidarity with the Mexican and Latinx communities.

Also, I urge you to read about the commercialization of Cinco de Mayo, which is how many of us were led to learn about this holiday.

Please note that if you are here for Cinco de Mayo recipes, you’re going to find dishes that are more TexMex and Mexican-inspired. There are not authentic Mexican recipes here, but they are all delicious. (After all, I am a white woman from the South, and while I love Mexican cuisine, I am no authority in it and do not claim to be.)

We’ve got plenty of drinks (including 12+ varieties of margaritas), appetizers, main dishes and more.

Some of our most popular Mexican (and TexMex) recipes for Cinco de Mayo are Cadillac Margarita, Frozen Strawberry Margarita and Cucumber Margarita.