Two days until the big fiesta and I can hardly contain my excitement. Cinco de Mayo is one of the two annual parties I host at Chateau Logena, and I take it very seriously. This year feels especially celebratory because we skipped last year and we’re throwing the first party in our new home — a proper fiesta housewarming. Everything is planned, from the music to the tableware, and of course the food and drinks.
I’ve finalized the menu, which features handhelds, shareable sides, hearty mains, and refreshing cocktails — everything you’d want for a festive Cinco de Mayo spread. If you’re planning to host your own gathering or simply want to celebrate with a Mexican-inspired meal, the recipes below are my go-to choices. I’ve included a variety of options so you can mix and match, plus a few healthier picks for guests who prefer lighter fare. Recipes from the book are noted in italics with page numbers.
Domesticate ME!’s Favorite Cinco de Mayo Recipes:
SHAREABLE APPS AND SIDES
Spicy Bean and Cheese Taquitos
Chipotle Hummus with Chili-Lime Pita Chips
Spicy Pulled Chicken Sliders with Bacon-Queso Guacamole
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers p. 124
Boss Bean Dip p. 128
Chipotle Chicken Taquitos p. 130
Fiesta BBQ Chicken Nachos p. 135
Vegetable Fajita Salad with Chipotle Vinaigrette p. 192
Chipotle Street Corn p. 171
These shareable starters are perfect for grazing before the main meal. Bite-size taquitos and loaded dips travel well, while the street corn salad adds bright, smoky flavors. Make some items ahead—dips can be prepared the day before and warmed sliders or taquitos reheat quickly.
TACOS AND ‘DILLAS
Fiery Barbecue Flank Steak Tacos
Spicy Chicken Quesadillas with Corn, Black Beans, and Caramelized Onions
Crispy Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa and Avocado Salsa Verde
“Chickpotle” Mexican Pizza
Skirt Steak and Avocado Quesadillas p. 138
Fish Tacos with Mango-Avocado Salsa and Chipotle Crema p. 119
“Taco Bell” Beef Tacos p. 214
Tacos and quesadillas are party essentials. Offer a variety of fillings—beef, chicken, fish, and vegetarian—so guests can assemble their favorites. Prepare salsas and toppings in bowls for a self-serve taco bar to keep lines moving and allow personalized plates.
FIESTA MAINS
Stuffed Poblano Quinoa Bake
Chicken Meatball Fajita Skillet
Roasted Sweet Potato, Kale and Black Bean Enchiladas
Portobello Fajitas with Chipotle Cashew Cream
Grilled Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa Verde p. 157
Loaded Chicken Enchiladas p. 78
Main dishes should be substantial and satisfy a crowd. Vegetarian casseroles, hearty enchiladas, and skillet dishes are ideal for feeding many without fuss. These recipes bring bold flavors and can be portioned easily for guests.
BEBIDAS!
Skinny Blood Orange-Basil Margarita
Strawberry Mexican Mule
Watermelon-Basil Mezcal Margarita
Clementine-Jalapeño Margarita
Grapefruit Margaritas
Grapefruit Beergarita p. 287
Jalapeño Mule p. 284
Cocktails make the party. Offer a signature margarita, a spicy mezcal option, and a lighter mule for variety. Prepare a pitcher or punch bowl for easy refills and leave garnishes—lime wedges, salt, and fresh herbs—on the side so guests can customize their drinks.
Serena’s Cinco de Mayo Menu:
* Bean and Cheese Taquitos (sliced in half for bite-size portions)
* Skirt Steak and Avocado Quesadillas from The Dude Diet
* Taco Bar with pulled chicken and seasoned ground beef (I’ll double or triple the pulled chicken used in this slider recipe and make extra beef using the Dude Diet taco recipe.)
* Loaded Nachos using the same seasoned beef and pulled chicken as the tacos
* Chips and Dips: guacamole, pico de gallo, and mango salsa (I’ll make the mango salsa from this recipe)
* Spicy Watermelon Margaritas (similar to a sparkling watermelon punch but with jalapeño-infused tequila, extra lime, and a bit more brightness)
Whether you’re hosting a large party or a relaxed dinner with friends, these recipes and menu ideas will help you create an authentic, flavorful Cinco de Mayo celebration. Plan ahead where you can, keep a few make-ahead dishes in rotation, and set up stations so guests can serve themselves. Most of all—have fun and enjoy the food, drinks, and good company.