I typically host an annual Cinco de Mayo party but that will be out of the question for 2020 as we all continue to do our part to flatten the curve through physical distancing.
That being said, I’m still hoping to inspire a little bit of festive spirit for this Mexican holiday by sharing a round-up of some of my favourite recipes that celebrate Mexican cuisine.
Celery Margarita
Made with both celery juice and a celery salt syrup, this non-traditional celery margarita brings a grassy freshness and complex sweetness to this classic agave-based cocktail.
Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
Pork shoulder is transformed into fork-tender carnitas in just 30 minutes with the help of the Instant Pot. A dish that would normally take 12 hours in the slow-cooker is now a feasible weeknight dinner option. Cooked with Mexican beer, lime juice, and plenty of chili powder, these instant pot pork carnitas are the kind of crowd-pleasing fare that you’ll be happy to have leftovers of.
Picante Pineapple Hibiscus Punch
I served this pitcher cocktail at my Cinco de Mayo party last year and it was a huge success. Made with chilled hibiscus tea, pineapple shrub, tequila, lots of lime juice, freshly sliced jalapeño and fresh mint – this Picante Pineapple Hibiscus Punch really fires on all cylinders.
Herbed Israeli Couscous Salad with Corn and Feta
This fresh salad is somewhat evocative of Mexican street corn but with Israeli couscous to add density, handfuls of fresh herbs thrown in and a sprinkle of pine nuts to add texture. I could easily devour several bowls of this Herbed Israeli Couscous Salad with Corn and Feta.
Tequila Surprise
Tequila and Campari are a match made in heaven – especially when balanced out by passionfruit and cinnamon syrups. This tropical cocktail is just the ticket to get you in the spirit for a little stay home fiesta. Aptly named, the Tequila Surprise.
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Grilled cod paired with a spicy, fresh mango salsa and chipotle crema is your ticket to flavour town. These Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa come together in just 20 minutes and will have you going back for seconds.
Triple Agave & Grapefruit
This cocktail is called Triple Agave & Grapefruit because it utilizes agave in three forms: tequila, mezcal, and agave syrup (infused with jalapeños for a bit of zip). The smoky character of mezcal stands up to the spicy jalapeño agave syrup and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice brings a refreshing tartness for a well-rounded drink.
Mexican Potato Salad
This is not your aunt’s potato salad. This Mexican Potato Salad is exploding with flavour, made with fresh corn, red pepper, jalapeño, cumin, garlic, green onion, and garlic. I love a good potato salad, but this is among my favourites.
Spicy Mango Margarita
I’m going to shoot you straight, this Spicy Mango Margarita was easily one of my favourite cocktail recipes from last year. This sipper puts that jalapeño agave syrup from the Triple Agave & Grapefruit cocktail to good use in a completely different flavour arrangement.
Avocado Cilantro Lime Dip
Deceptively healthy, this Avocado Cilantro Lime Dip was in heavy rotation when I completed Whole30 back in January. This dip goes equally well with tortilla chips or crudités – always a good option to have on hand for snacking and a nice alternative to guacamole.
Tequila Monkey Gland
The “monkey gland” is classically a gin-based cocktail but I’ve swapped out the juniper-forward gin for agave-based tequila. Combined with lemon juice, orange, grenadine, and an absinthe rinse – this Tequila Monkey Gland will instantly transport you to sunnier climes.
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