Cinco de Mayo is a time to honor Mexican heritage, and what better way to celebrate than with classic recipes from my abuela. My abuelita is a fantastic cook, and her recipes keep people coming back for seconds. These 17 dishes are rooted in tradition, offering a taste of Mexico’s rich food culture. From savory meats to zesty salsas, each recipe showcases the simple yet robust flavors that are characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
Pepita Salsa Macha
Pepita Salsa Macha is a rich, nutty sauce that can elevate any dish with its depth of flavor. It takes just 30 minutes to prepare, blending pumpkin seeds (pepitas), dried chilies, and garlic into a versatile condiment. The taste is complex, with a balance of heat, nuttiness, and a hint of acidity. This salsa macha is perfect for drizzling over tacos or grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Pepita Salsa Macha
Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa combine the heartiness of black beans with the zest of homemade salsa. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish features main ingredients like black beans, bell peppers, and a variety of spices, resulting in a taste that is both smoky and slightly sweet. It’s a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. The colorful salsa adds a fresh and vibrant touch to these tacos.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas
Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas offer a surf-and-turf twist on a classic Mexican dish. With a total time of 40 minutes, this recipe includes juicy steak, succulent shrimp, and a mix of bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with traditional fajita spices. The result is a savory and slightly smoky flavor combination that’s both filling and easy to prepare. This one-pan meal simplifies cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas
Beef Barbacoa
Beef Barbacoa is a slow-cooked favorite that takes about 8 hours to reach its full, tender potential. The main ingredients include beef chuck roast, chipotle peppers, and a blend of Mexican spices that infuse the meat with a rich, smoky flavor. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth dish with a spicy kick that’s perfect for tacos or burritos. Despite the long cook time, the result is well worth the wait.
Get the Recipe: Beef Barbacoa
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread is a savory, crumbly bread with a spicy twist, ready in about 35 minutes. This gluten-free recipe features cornmeal, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños, creating a taste that’s both sharp and with a noticeable heat. It’s an excellent side dish that pairs well with soups and chili. The cheesy kick in each bite makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
Crispy Plantain Chips
Crispy Plantain Chips are a simple yet satisfying snack that takes only 20 minutes to make. Using just plantains and a sprinkle of salt, these chips offer a natural sweetness contrasted by a salty crunch. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional chips and work well as a side or a standalone snack. Their crispy texture is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Plantain Chips
Matzo brei chilaquiles
Matzo brei chilaquiles transform a traditional Jewish breakfast into a Mexican-inspired dish in just 30 minutes. The main ingredients are matzo, eggs, and a spicy tomato sauce, which together create a taste that’s rich, slightly spicy, and comforting. This dish is a unique fusion that’s perfect for brunch or a casual dinner. It’s a creative twist on classic chilaquiles.
Get the Recipe: Matzo brei chilaquiles
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas are a flaky and delicious handheld treat, ready in about 45 minutes. They’re filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices, resulting in a warm, meaty flavor encased in buttery pastry. These empanadas are perfect for parties or as a filling snack. The golden puff pastry adds an elegant touch to these traditional favorites.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
Mexican Quick Pickles
Mexican Quick Pickles are a tangy and crunchy addition to any meal, ready in just 10 minutes plus chilling time. This recipe uses vegetables like carrots, radishes, and jalapeños, which are pickled in a vinegar-based brine. The taste is a vibrant combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. They’re an easy way to add brightness to tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Quick Pickles
Quesabirria Tacos
Quesabirria Tacos are a cheesy, juicy sensation that boasts a cook time of about 4 hours. They combine tender, spiced beef with melted cheese in a crispy tortilla, creating a taste that’s rich and savory with a hint of spice. This dish is a blend of traditional Mexican birria and quesadillas, offering an irresistible texture. It’s a trendy dish that’s gaining popularity for its flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos
Halloumi Tacos
Halloumi Tacos are a delightful vegetarian option that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. With grilled halloumi cheese as the star, these tacos are complemented by fresh vegetables and a squeeze of lime, resulting in a salty and tangy flavor profile. The firm texture of halloumi makes it an excellent meat substitute. These tacos are a fresh and satisfying choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Tacos
Spiced Grilled Corn
Spiced Grilled Corn is a smoky and aromatic side dish that’s ready in about 25 minutes. This recipe features corn on the cob seasoned with a blend of Middle Eastern spices, offering a taste that’s both sweet from the corn and warm from the spices. It’s a simple yet impactful dish that’s perfect for outdoor barbecues. The spices add an exotic twist to a traditional favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Grilled Corn
Fried Marinated Tofu
Fried Marinated Tofu is a versatile and flavorful vegan dish that can be prepared in 35 minutes. The tofu is marinated in a savory sauce and then fried until golden, resulting in a taste that’s deeply savory with a satisfying texture. It’s a great protein option for tacos or as a standalone dish. This tofu is a tasty way to enjoy a meat-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu
Quick Pickled Jalapeno Peppers
Quick Pickled Jalapeño Peppers are a zesty condiment that can be made in just 10 minutes, plus cooling time. These peppers are pickled in a simple brine, creating a taste that’s both fiery and tangy. They’re perfect for adding a spicy kick to nachos, sandwiches, or salads. The quick pickling process ensures a crisp, fresh bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Jalapeno Peppers
Blackened Cod Tacos
Blackened Cod Tacos feature flaky cod with a bold spice crust, ready in about 20 minutes. The fish is seasoned with a homemade blackening spice mix, giving it a taste that’s smoky and a little spicy. These tacos are a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The blackened crust adds a delicious complexity to the mild cod.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod Tacos
Spicy Tofu Tacos
Spicy Tofu Tacos are a plant-based option that packs a punch, with a total time of about 40 minutes. The tofu is seasoned with a fiery spice blend and then grilled or pan-fried, resulting in a taste that’s both spicy and smoky. These tacos are filling and flavorful, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a meatless alternative. The spice blend imbues the tofu with a depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos
Pink Fish Tacos
Pink Fish Tacos are a visually appealing and tasty dish that’s ready in approximately 30 minutes. They feature a pink-hued fish, thanks to a special marinade, and are topped with a creamy slaw for a taste that’s tangy and slightly sweet. The colorful presentation makes them a standout option for a festive meal. These tacos offer a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pink Fish Tacos