Welcome to your ultimate guide for celebrating Cinco de Mayo with flair and flavor, without stretching your wallet! Whether you're gathering with family or hosting a small get-together, making this vibrant holiday special is all about the joy of good food and company.

We’re excited to share a festive meal plan that promises to delight your senses and honor the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. From a hearty breakfast to a delightful dinner, these dishes are simple to prepare, delicious, and designed to keep your budget in mind.

Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo with these mouth-watering recipes that are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

BREAKFAST: Huevos Rancheros

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas

• 8 eggs

• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans

• 1 cup salsa

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup queso fresco, crumbled

• Cooking oil

Instructions:

• Warm the refried beans in a small pot.

• In a skillet, lightly fry the tortillas in a bit of oil until just crispy. Set aside.

• In the same skillet, fry the eggs to your liking.

Assemble the huevos rancheros by spreading a spoonful of beans on each tortilla, then place an egg on top, spoon some salsa over, and garnish with avocado slices, queso fresco, and cilantro.

Lunch: Chicken Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 8 flour tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers

• 1/2 cup diced onions

• 1 tsp taco seasoning

• Cooking oil or butter

Instructions:

• Sauté the bell peppers and onions until soft.

• Mix in the shredded chicken and taco seasoning.

• On a tortilla, spread a portion of the chicken mixture, sprinkle some cheese, and top with another tortilla.

• In a skillet, heat a bit of oil or butter, and cook the quesadilla on each side until golden and the cheese is melted.

Cut into wedges and serve.

Snack: Tortilla Chips with Salsa

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of tortilla chips

• 1 cup store-bought or homemade salsa

Instructions:

• Simply serve the tortilla chips with salsa for dipping.

Dinner: Tacos de Carnitas

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups chicken broth

• Corn tortillas

• Toppings: diced onions, cilantro, lime wedges, sliced radishes

Instructions:

• Season the pork with cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• In a pot, add a bit of oil and brown the pork chunks. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until soft.

• Add the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 2 hours until the pork is tender and pulls apart easily.

Shred the pork and serve it on warmed corn tortillas with your choice of toppings.

DESSERT: Mexican Chocolate Churros

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water

• 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Oil for frying

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for coating

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for coating

• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, for coating (optional for a spicy kick)

Chocolate Sauce:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• A pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

Make the dough:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water, sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons oil. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Stir in flour and vanilla until the mixture forms a ball.

• Heat oil for frying in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).

  Pipe and fry:

  • Spoon the dough into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe strips of dough into the hot oil, about 4 inches long. Fry until golden; drain on paper towels.

  Coat the churros:

  • Combine 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and chili powder. Roll drained churros in sugar mixture.

  Make the chocolate sauce:

  • Heat the cream in a small pot until it begins to bubble. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring until smooth.

Serve churros warm with the chocolate sauce for dipping.

We hope this meal plan has brings a little extra zest to your celebration. These recipes are not only budget-friendly but are bursting with the flavors that embody the spirit of this festive day.

Remember, the essence of Cinco de Mayo is in the enjoyment of shared meals and cherished moments with loved ones. So, relish in the leftovers, if there are any, and bask in the laughter and stories that filled your home.

Happy Cinco de Mayo to you and yours!

If you have a suggestion for next month’s meal plan, let us know.