Did you know that Cinco de Mayo was first celebrated on American soil? It’s true! Even though the date commemorates Mexico’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla (NOT Mexican Independence Day), the first Cinco de Mayo parades and parties were help by Mexican-American communities in California and the West during the American Civil War. Today, Cinco de Mayo is observed in many countries as a celebration of Mexican heritage and culture.
Many of the foods consumed on this day are fried, smothered in cheese–or both!–and washed down with beer or tequila. You can indulge in the fun without defeating your diet and fitness goals by choosing healthier Latin-inspired foods. Here are 20 recipes to help you have festive meals all day, plus 3 ideas for drinks that won’t derail your diet.
BREAKFAST
TACOS
Crunchy Spicy Shredded Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
MORE MAIN DISHES
Baked Trout with Lime and Cilantro
Salmon Burritos with Chili-Roasted Vegetables
SNACKS AND SIDES
DRINKS
Mexican Chocolate
Instead of alcoholic beverages, make your chocolate Shakeology into a Cinco de Mayo treat. Use ½ cup almond milk, 1 scoop of Chocolate Shakeology, and spike it with a pinch of cinnamon and ancho chile powder.
Michelada Cocktail
This refreshing Mexican cocktail has only 100 calories! Mix one bottle of Mexican beer, the juice of 2 limes, and 1 tsp. hot sauce (like Tabasco). Serve over ice, in two glasses.
Skinny Margarita
If you’re going to enjoy a margarita, this is our favorite. It has a bright flavor and is also light on calories just 140 Combine 1.5 oz. of silver tequila, 1 oz. fresh lime juice, 1 oz. fresh orange juice, and 1 tsp. agave nectar in a shaker. Shake and serve over ice and garnish with a slice of orange or lime.
