Happy Cinco De Mayo! This day is a celebration of Mexican culture, its people, and its traditions. The day originated on the 5th of May, 1862, marking the defeat of the French Army in Mexico during the Battle of Puebla (“Batalla de Puebla,” in Spanish).
Cinco De Mayo celebrations are not just held in Mexico; people across Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Phoenix, and more can be found enjoying the festivities. Cinco De Mayo can be celebrated with parades, street fairs, dancing, and of course, by enjoying Mexican food.
15 Vegan Recipes for a Plant-Based Cinco De Mayo Feast
So, if you’re in the mood to enjoy a feast of vegan Mexican cuisine this 5th of May, here are 15 plant-based recipes to get you started.
1. Zero Cholesterol Queso Fundido
When a recipe is vegan and gluten-free, yet oh-so-creamy, dreamy, and all about that melted dairy-free cheese, it’s a must-have at any table, especially during Cinco De Mayo! Cholesterol clogs the lining of one’s arteries, but this dish can be enjoyed guilt-free, and heart-happy!
Get the recipe here.
2. Lentil Picadillo Tacos
This recipe is perfect to please any vegan or omnivore. Hearty, flavorsome, and super filling, you’ll want to make Taco Tuesday every day of the week!
Get the recipe here.
3. Six-Layer Mexican Pinwheels
“Easy, 6-layer Mexican pinwheels with refried beans, avocado, vegan Mexican cheese, and more! The perfect savory, satisfying side, snack or appetizer!” explains the recipe author, Minimalist Baker. If one eats a whole plate, or two, of these pinwheels, it counts as a balanced meal, right? Asking for a friend…
Get the recipe here.
4. Next Level Vegan Enchiladas
Vegan enchilada sauce + avocado + cashew cream + black beans + soft tortillas = the ultimate deliciousness. Cinco De Mayo celebrator or not, you’ll want this recipe stat.
Get the recipe here.
5. Loaded Vegan Nachos
I Love Vegan aptly describes their recipe, “There are few things as delicious as a loaded nacho plate – loads of bubbling cheese, fresh veggie toppings, heaps of guacamole, tangy salsa… Ugh, so good!” This dish will make your ultimate comfort food dreams come true.
Get the recipe here.
6. Vegan Tamales
No matter the usual diet of guests, these tamales could satisfy anyone’s cravings for Mexican food and will level up your food game ten-fold.
Get the recipe here.
7. Mexican Hot Chocolate Snickerdoodles
This vegan take on a Mexican traditional treat is the perfect thing to serve at a Cinco De Mayo party. It’s soft, decadent, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—no one would even know it’s animal product-free.
Get the recipe here.
8. Meatless Mexican Sloppy Joes
When a classic Western sloppy joe meets the flavors of Mexico, magic happens! This dish is perfect for those who love a messy meal.
Get the recipe here.
9. Cinco De Mayo Fiesta Pizza
If you’re a pizza-holic and keen to celebrate this Cinco De Mayo day, you need this recipe in your life. Thank us later. Cook it on a pizza stone for an extra-crispy crust.
Get the recipe here.
10. Vegan Taquitos with Lentils, Squash, Arugula and Avocado Crema
This vegan and gluten-free recipe packs a punch of flavor and has 20g of protein per serving. If you’re looking to follow a diet that balances hearty indulgence with nourishment, this dish is a goer.
Get the recipe here.
11. Vegan Stuffed Pasilla Peppers with Habanero Pesto
If you love fun food that is light, yet won’t leave your stomach grumbling during the night of salsa that follows, whip up some of these before you hit the dance floor.
Get the recipe here.
12. Vegan Conchas | Mexican Pan Dulce
In Mexico, it’s not unusual for a basket of pan dulce to arrive at the table before placing an order. This recipe delivers the bread you love without the dairy or eggs.
Get the recipe here.
13. Guacamole Quesadillas
When guacamole and quesadillas are untied, scrumptious things happen!
Get the recipe here.
14. Mexican Cornbread Pizza Cake
Vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free food has never tasted so good! Kudos if you demolish the whole thing in one sitting.
Get the recipe here.
15. Mucho Margarita Cupcakes
Take the edge off after a night of feasting and entertaining with a boozy cupcake, or two!
Get the recipe here.
