Read on for a full roundup of Vegan Recipes for Cinco De Mayo! See the drinks, snacks, and main course ideas for a plant-based, Mexican-Inspired feast.
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire during the Battle of Puebla (this is not the same thing as Mexican Independence Day, which is September 16!). In the United States, however, this holiday has grown in popularity more so as a way to celebrate Mexican-American culture and heritage. This was driven in large part by advertising campaigns in the 1980s for beer, tequila, and wine brands.
This post includes all of my favorite vegan Mexican-adjacent recipes to help you celebrate! It’s important to not that these are not authentic takes – if you’re looking for those I recommend the fantastic book Provecho by Edgar Castrejón.
A List of Vegan Cinco De Mayo Food and Drink Recipes
4 Ingredient Piña Coladas
If you like piña coladas…you’re going to love such a simple preparation! This piña colada recipe with coconut milk, lime juice, pineapple and rum evokes classic beach-y flavors that are SO refreshing. Ready in just 10 minutes with four ingredients!
Strawberry Limeade (Cocktail Option)
This healthy Strawberry Limeade will be your favorite summer refresher! A perfect pair to classic cookout foods, it’s sweet, tangy, and easily customized. Topped with mint for a cooling summer beverage!
Mojito Slushies
These Frozen Mojito Slushies are the perfect treat on a hot day! Easily made nonalcoholic, they’re packed with refreshing flavor from fresh mint and citrus juice. Blend up a batch and watch how fast it’s gone!
Melon Agua Fresca
This refreshing Melon Agua Fresca is just what you need to beat the heat! Easily made with a base of cantelope, it’s a bright and non-alcoholic drink to carry you through the end of summer.
Salted Watermelon Margaritas
These Salted Watermelon Margaritas are the most refreshing way to cool down this summer! With just 5 healthy ingredients (and a frozen option), you can easily beat the heat in style. Whole food ingredients in a party-ready cocktail, alcohol optional, and ready in just 10 minutes!
Strawberry Rhubarb Margaritas
Strawberry Rhubarb Margaritas are a perfect celebration of summer! It is made with an infused simple syrup, tequila, and some fresh orange juice. Easily made nonalcoholic as well!
3-Ingredient Vegan Queso Dip
This creamy 3-Ingredient Vegan Queso Dip will be your new favorite party food! Ready in just 5 minutes with just three ingredients, it’s the perfect topping for nachos & wonderful for dipping chips. Everyone will be asking for the recipe because it’s the BEST ever!
Creamy Kale and Potato Tacos (from Chaia)
These Creamy Kale and Potato Tacos are inspired by those served the classic Washington, D.C. restaurant Chaia! This version uses a cashew cream sauce base to cook crispy potatoes and kale for the perfect tortilla filling. Topped with salsa verde, pickled onions, and micro greens, they’re a delicious and easy plant-based dinner option ready in 20 minutes!
Mini Tacos
The easiest mini tacos that are perfect for any party! Totally plant-based and ready in minutes.
Walnut Lentil Taco Meat
Looking to change up Taco Night at home? This recipe for Walnut Lentil Taco Meat is high in protein, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes. Try it in lettuce wraps or on top of nachos!
Grilled Street Corn (inspired by Mexican Elote)
This Grilled Street Corn is a fully loaded, delicious summer side! Fresh corn is lightly charred and topped with tangy cheese, chili, cayenne, fresh cilantro, and bright lime juice.
