Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Secret Ingredient

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Secret Ingredient as we prepare our favorite Mexican recipes. Cinco de Mayo is an opportunity to explore Mexican culture and cuisine. The holiday commemorates the Battle of Puebla, a Mexican army victory during the Franco-Mexican War. Although a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, the day has become a popular celebration in the United States.

What better way to celebrate than to eat delicious Mexican food? We’ve gathered a variety of our favorite Mexican dishes that are sure to be popular, whether you’re having a weeknight family dinner or a casual party. From guacamole and enchiladas to chili and tacos, everyone will be in the mood to celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Just don’t forget the homemade margaritas.

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Guacamole

Guacamole comes from the ancient Aztec civilization and translates loosely as “avocado sauce.” The dish has long been popular throughout Mexico and later spread into the U.S. There are many versions of guacamole from simple recipes of mashed avocado with salt to more elaborate mixtures with spices, chiles, and fresh veggies. It can be served as an accompaniment or garnish to grilled meats or chicken, added to tacos or as a stand-alone appetizer or snack with chips.

Perfectly ripe avocados are needed to make delicious guacamole. The fruit should be slightly soft when you squeeze it. Secret Ingredient likes a simple recipe with creamy avocados, fresh red onion, poblano or serrano peppers, tangy lime juice, cilantro, juicy tomatoes, garlic, salt and pepper.  It’s easily customizable, so increase or decrease the number or variety of peppers for the perfect level of heat or add more lime for additional tang. The lime juice will also help to keep your avocadoes from turning brown.

Another great Mexican garnish or appetizer is Pico De Gallo. You can easily make a great Pico De Gallo with a few fresh ingredients and some chopping. It is important to find the highest-quality tomatoes for the best results. During the winter, we use ripe grape tomatoes. Secret Ingredient suggests allowing this dish to sit for an hour or two before serving to allow the flavors to blend. It is best to serve it the same day it is prepared and not refrigerate. 

Serve Enchiladas to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

Enchiladas are popular because they can be versatile. Choose your favorite filling of meat, sautéed veggies, cheese, or a combination. Feel free to make your own enchilada sauce or purchase one from the store for a quick meal.

Secret Ingredient loves enchiladas because they are great for a crowd or can easily be heated on a busy weeknight. Prepare them ahead of time and just bake them right before you plan to eat. They freeze well and are just as delicious as leftovers. 

Our clients go crazy for this recipe, Chicken and White Bean Enchilada recipe from Skinnytaste.com.

Nothing Says Celebration Like Margaritas

The margarita is a classic for good reason, it is simple and delicious. Fresh lime juice, triple sec and good tequila are all you need. A good tequila is definitely important since there are only three ingredients. Add a salted rim to really step your cocktail up a notch. Take your margarita to the next level with these suggestions from Secret Ingredient.

• Use mezcal instead of a tequila. The mezcal will give the classic margarita a smokier taste.
• Add some spice! Spicy margaritas are all the rage. Add a few slices of jalapeño to your cocktail or add some spice to your rim. There are many great spicy margarita rim salts you can buy or find on the Internet.
• Add some pineapple in addition to the lime juice for a sweeter margarita.

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Chili

Chili is a type of stew often made with some combination of peppers, beans, meat, tomatoes, and spices. Recipes vary drastically in different regions and most people have their favorite chili recipe. Some people frown upon beans in chili while in Cincinnati chili is served over spaghetti. This dish is so versatile and full of flavor, there is no question why it’s so popular. If you are looking for a great vegetarian option, we love a hearty quinoa chili. It is protein-packed and comfort food you can feel good about.

The Perfect Side Dish to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

Black Bean Salad with Corn is the perfect Mexican side dish. It is one of Secret Ingredient’s favorite dishes because it can also serve as a chunky dip when served with chips or a filling for burritos or quesadillas. It’s packed with flavor from the corn, tomatoes, and cilantro, and has a kick from fresh garlic, jalapeno, and red onion. Be sure to chop all the ingredients small. The fresh lime juice and salt make all the flavors pop. This salad is one that is better when it has time to sit and let the flavors combine.

Celebrate with Secret Ingredient

This time of year is always filled with wonderful celebrations. From bridal showers, graduation parties, birthday celebrations and simple summer get togethers. Celebrate your next event with Secret Ingredient. We will take care of the menu planning, shopping, cooking and cleanup so you can enjoy your guests and event. Visit our boutique catering page to learn more about our event offerings and view our sample menus. Contact us today to reserve your date.

Cheers,