Celebrating Cinco de Mayo

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican heritage and pride. Celebrating Cinco de Mayo is fun because it allows you to cook all your favorite Mexican specialties and mix up some special margaritas. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day (that's on Sept. 16th), instead it marks the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces in 1862.

This year, Cinco de Mayo falls on a Saturday, so it'll be even easier to whip up some tasty treats and have fun with family and friends. For this party we've decided to focus on our all-time favorite Mexican dishes from start to finish- a refreshing margarita, expertly made chips and guacamole, flavorful enchiladas and finally a tres leches cake.

Watermelon Cilantro Margaritas (Food52)
Start your party with a refreshing margarita.
Ingredients: Tequila, Triple Sec, Watermelon Juice, Lime Sour Mix, Cilantro, Ice

Guacamole with Fresh Corn & Chipotle (Epicurious)
This is the perfect dip for fresh tortilla chips.
Ingredients: Ripe Avocados, Canned Chipotle Chile, Fresh Corn, Tomato, Lime Juice, Sour Cream, Green Onion

Chicken Enchiladas Suizas (Food Network)
Enchiladas are our all-time favorite Mexican entree.
Ingredients: Serrano Chiles, Sour Cream, Tortillas, Onion, Garlic, Chicken Broth, Tomato, Chicken, Oil, Cilantro, Queso Fresco, Salt

Tres Leches Cake (MyRecipes)
This delicious cake is  made with three different types of milk.
Ingredients: Milk (Evaporated, Sweetened Condensed, Regular), Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Baking Powder, Butter, Salt, Flour, Cream, Eggs
 

Time to get excited for Cinco de Mayo!

Any other favorite themes, ingredients or dishes you'd like us to highlight? Post them in the comments section! You can also Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter for recipes, tips and more.