Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Home

While Cinco de Mayo has increased in popularity over the last half century—believe it or not—it isn’t just about drinking frozen margaritas and making a reservation at your local Mexican restaurant. Although in America it is a day for honoring Mexican-American culture, in Mexico it recognizes an achievement in battle. Not to be confused with Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16th, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

Today, many people in America use Cinco de Mayo as a tribute to Mexican heritage and culture. A celebration of music, food, and—of course—a certain signature beverage, Cinco de Mayo can be celebrated by all. This year, since you can’t get out to party, you can bring the party home with a unique and refreshing margarita recipe that uses a surprising ingredient.

Avocado Margarita
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest, divided
  • 1 lime wedge
  • ½ avocado, pitted, peeled
  • ½ cup tequila blanco
  • ½ cup triple sec
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 4 lime wheels

Directions

  • Combine salt and ½ teaspoon of lime zest on a small plate. Rub the rim of each margarita glass with the lime wedge and dip into salt mixture.
  • Purée avocado, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, cilantro, cayenne, remaining lime zest, and 1 ¼ cups ice in a blender until smooth.
  • Divide among the four prepared glasses and garnish each with a lime wheel.

Recipe adapted from Bon Appetit