Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

How many of you actually know the history of Cinco de Mayo? After doing a little research to refresh my memory, I thought I would share the info with you! Might make for some good bar conversation tomorrow... :-)

May 5th signifies the day on which the Mexican militia conquered the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 (the French were trying to take control over Mexico). Today, Cinco de Mayo is largely celebrated in the state of Puebla, Mexico, and is an increasingly popular celebration north of the U.S.-Mexico border (albeit a popular commercialized celebration)...

Now that you have your history lesson, I thought I would share with you some easy ideas for an impromptu Mexican fiesta if you're in the mood...

1. Chips and salsa. For super delicious salsa, make your own by combining white/yellow onion, tomatoes, tomatillos, fresh cilantro, salt, lime juice and your choice of peppers. You can't go wrong with this, so have fun and experiment with the flavors.


2. Guacamole. Make easy guacamole by mixing some of this salsa into mashed avocados.


3. Margaritas! One of my favorite concoctions, you can take the traditional lime-flavored margarita and add a twist. Jazz it up with an assortment of fruit flavors by adding fresh strawberries or mangos.


4. Flautas. These are softer versions of rolled tacos (or taquitos). The difference between taquitos and flautas is that taquitos are made with corn tortillas and flautas are made with flour tortillas. Both are stuffed with your choice of filling (like shredded beef or chicken) then fried in oil to a crispy perfection.


5. Spanish rice. You can't have a good dish of Mexican food without tasty rice to compliment the meal. Click here for a yummy and easy recipe from Chelsie Kenyon.


6. Dessert. Cut flour tortillas into triangle pieces and cook pieces in hot oil until lightly browned and crisp. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel. Dust both sides with cinnamon and sugar. Mmm!


7. Decorations. Of course, you can't have a party without fun decor! Buy a pinata and fill it with candy. Fill glass vases with limes, lemons, oranges, or bright flowers to use as table centerpieces. Click here for instructions on how to make your own tissue paper flowers.

However you may choose to spend your Cinco de Mayo, please celebrate responsibly!