Cinco de Mayo is fast approaching so I had to put together my favorite Mexican recipes for this annual food-filled celebration!

If you are looking for ALL of my delicious Mexican recipes for your celebration, then you can check them out here!

I cannot believe that April is almost over! We are approaching the middle of the year, and it still feels like we just started this year! The great thing with May quickly approaching is there is a fiesta right around the corner! That’s right, Cinco de Mayo, so I have put together my favorite recipes all in one post and this is all you need to put on an amazing event!

What is Cinco de Mayo?

You may be asking, why is Cinco de Mayo celebrated? Well, other than it being Spanish for the 5th of May and all my favorite Mexican restaurants hosting parties, I wasn’t really certain why this day was celebrated. Well, I looked it up and Cinco de Mayo is the annual celebration on the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French empire in 1862.

Give me all the Cinco de Mayo recipes!

If you need some inspiration for a party menu, or you just feel like making a fun themed dinner for the family, I’ve put together a handy list of some of my favorite Mexican-inspired recipes for this celebration!

Margaritas

Is it really a fiesta without a margarita in hand? Check out these delicious margarita recipes for your celebration.

Beverages Jalapeño Margarita Recipe

This Jalapeño Margarita combines the classic margarita flavors you love with the spice from a jalapeno that gives this drink a real kick!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

5 from 5 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Strawberry Jalapeno Margarita Recipe

Sip into a bold adventure with our Strawberry Jalapeno Margarita – a perfect blend of sweet strawberries and zesty jalapeños, crafting a tantalizingly spicy-sweet cocktail.

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

5 from 7 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Avocado Margarita Recipe

Love margaritas and avocados? This Avocado Margarita recipe is your dream come true—creamy, delicious, and oh-so-refreshing!

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

4.75 from 12 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Cadillac Margarita Recipe

Step up your margarita game with our Cadillac Margarita. It's a premium mix of reposado tequila and Grand Marnier, crafting a drink that's simply top-shelf!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

4.46 from 11 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Frozen Coconut Margarita from Scratch Recipe

Escape to a tropical paradise with our Frozen Coconut Margarita! Featuring fresh lime juice, agave nectar, and coconut tequila, this from-scratch delight is a refreshing twist on a classic margarita, complete with a coconut-salt rim.

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

5 from 5 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages, Cocktail Blueberry Margarita Recipe

Cool down this summer with a glass of our Blueberry Margarita, blending sweet and tangy notes for a truly delightful cocktail experience!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

5 from 5 votes

Check out this recipe

Drinks Orange Margarita Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate warm-weather refreshment with our Orange Margarita recipe! Bursting with zesty citrus flavors, it's a tantalizing twist on the classic margarita, perfect for savoring sunny days.

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

5 from 5 votes

Check out this recipe

Other Beverages

If margaritas are not your thing, not to worry for there are still plenty of other options for your celebration. Here are a few I recommend.

Beverages Micheladas Recipe: Spicy Mexican Red Beer

Micheladas are a delightfully simple beer cocktail known for their, shall we say, restorative properties. This spicy Mexican-style Red Beer will have you on your feet again in no time!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

4.84 from 6 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Honeydew Agua Fresca with Raspberries Recipe

Cool off with this light and fruity Honeydew Agua Fresca with Raspberries! The combo of juicy melon, raspberries, and lime makes it the perfect drink for sunny days.

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

5 from 5 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Michelada Bloody Mary Recipe

Elevate your brunch game with our Michelada Bloody Mary, a delightful fusion of tangy citrus, light beer, and Tequila Blanco. It's a crowd-pleaser for garden parties and social brunches!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

4.58 from 26 votes

Check out this recipe

Beverages Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea) Recipe

Cool down with a glass of Agua de Jamaica, a deliciously tangy hibiscus tea that’s super easy to make and refreshingly perfect for any warm day.

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

5 from 2 votes

Check out this recipe

Appetizers

If I am honest, my favorite part of any Mexican meal is the appetizers. Dips, Nachos, etc. I can never get enough! Here are some of my must haves for any fiesta!

Appetizers Carne Asada Nachos Recipe

Crispy blue corn chips smothered in cheddar, juicy carne asada, and fresh toppings like guacamole and sour cream make these Carne Asada Nachos a crowd favorite.

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

5 from 2 votes

Check out this recipe

Appetizers Beer Battered Hushpuppies Recipe

I love giving classic recipes a little twist, and these Beer Battered Hushpuppies are no exception. The taco seasoning and green chiles add a fun, flavorful kick that’s always a hit.

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

5 from 3 votes

Check out this recipe

Appetizers Queso Fundido Recipe

This meatless Queso Fundido, with its smoky Colorado sauce, is a family favorite. Serve it warm with tortillas and watch it disappear!

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

5 from 3 votes

Check out this recipe

Appetizers Five Layer Dip Bowls Recipe

Snack time has never been this exciting! These Five Layer Dip Bowls are packed with flavor, making them the perfect choice for game day or an easy after-school treat.

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

5 from 2 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dishes

The main event! This is where you can really wow your crowd of party goers. I have selected some of my favorite Mexican dishes that are not only delicious, but ones you can easily make for all of your friends and family, check them out!

Main Course, Main Dish Birria Tacos Recipe

Crispy, drippy, and delicious, is the only way to describe this Birria Tacos recipe! They are packed with flavor which everyone will love!

Total Time: 3 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

5 from 6 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dish Sheet Pan Fajitas Recipe (For a Crowd!)

Spice up your dinner with this effortless Sheet Pan Fajita recipe – a sizzling blend of flavors cooked to perfection in your oven!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

4.41 from 156 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dish Barbacoa Beef Bowls Recipe

Ditch the queue and savor homemade freshness with these effortless Barbacoa Beef Bowls, an ideal solution for transforming leftovers into a delightful, restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen!

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

4.43 from 49 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dish Asadero Cheese and Steak Tacos Recipe

This Asadero Cheese and Steak Tacos recipe uses beef tenderloin, onions, poblano peppers, spices and a secret sauce on top of Mexican Asadero Cheese for a delicious, Tex-Mex Taco you will love!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

4.50 from 10 votes

Check out this recipe

Soups & Stews Vegetarian Chili Slow Cooker Recipe

Savory, simple, and satisfying, this Vegetarian Chili recipe brings a slow cooker sensation to your table, reinventing vegetarian comfort food.

Total Time: 5 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

4.54 from 226 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dish Chilaquiles Rojos Recipe

Experience a burst of Mexican flavors with our Chilaquiles Rojos! Corn tortilla triangles drenched in zesty salsa, adorned with creamy cheese, avocados, and a protein twist of your choice and ready in less than 30 minutes!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

4.57 from 64 votes

Check out this recipe

Main Dish Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Say hello to guilt-free indulgence with our Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole. This casserole is a perfect twist on the classic, offering a hearty, meat-free delight that's sure to satisfy!

Total Time: 1 hour hour

4.50 from 38 votes

Check out this recipe

Side Dishes

We cannot forget about the side dishes. However, instead of serving the same old boring rice and beans that we see over and over again, spice up your side dishes for your event with something new and different that everyone will love!

Side Dishes Mexican Corn Salad Recipe

This creamy Mexican Corn Salad is the perfect summer side dish. It’s a mix of sweet corn, creamy dressing, and just enough spice to complement your grilled dishes.

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

4.67 from 9 votes

Check out this recipe

Side Dishes Vegetarian Refried Beans Recipe

These Vegetarian Refried Beans are the perfect way to pack smoky flavor and spice into a simple, crowd-pleasing side dish for your next Mexican meal.

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

4.67 from 3 votes

Check out this recipe

Breads Cheesy Mexican Cornbread Recipe

Loaded with cheese, green chiles, and a hint of spice, this Cheesy Mexican Cornbread is the perfect side dish to bring rich flavors to your next meal!

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

4.67 from 6 votes

Check out this recipe

Soups & Stews Mexican Bean Soup Recipe

Warm your soul with this creamy Mexican Bean Soup. This pinto bean soup offers a flavorful and affordable taste of Latin comfort.

Total Time: 2 hours hours 25 minutes minutes

4.60 from 96 votes

Check out this recipe

Regardless of how you are celebrating I hope you all have a wonderful Cinco de Mayo!

Looking for some inspiring side dishes to bring to Thanksgiving? You’ve come to the right place!

Guys, Thanksgiving is right around the corner!

This year I’m going to focus on beautiful, real-food dishes to share with the family. I thought it would be fun to share some of the recipes I’ve been drooling over and ask a bit of advice on which ones you think I should cook.

Of course, I’d also love to know if you decide to make one for your own festivities! These are all ideas of beautiful side dishes to bring to Thanksgiving that deviate from the standard mashed potatoes and dressing.

Now that I’m basically a wines of Italy expert (ahem, maybe) thanks to my partnership with the Italian Trade Commission, I feel confident picking out some gorgeous reds to enjoy with our meal.

I’m sharing those choices with you today because I’m just nice like that.

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that calls for incredible wine. I’m going to tell you all about three big, beautiful Italian reds that will pair perfectly with your feast. Each one has a gorgeous garnet color and an incredibly smooth body.

These are the kind wines your guests will ask you about!

Wine Choice #1: Valpolicella Ripasso

Valpolicella is an appellation from Verona in the Veneto region of Northeast Italy. The soil in this region is really rich in minerals, which gives great structure to wines produced here.

The vines used in the production of Valpolicella are predominantly Corvina and Corvinone, with small amounts allowed of Rondinella, Molinara, and possibly Croatina or Oseleta. The “Ripasso” style of wines from Valpolicella makes an intense wine with a really velvety palate. I

personally love the bouquet of this wine, usually leather and tobacco, with a bit of cinnamon. The nose is a bit more prune with hints of cherry and chocolate. Everything about this smooth wine is intense, round, and rich!

When your guests ask about this wine (and they will!), be sure to mention the use of the unique “Ripasso” technique, from which this appellation earned its name. Ripasso (meaning “re-pass”) is a process during fermentation where the skins of dried grapes that were pressed to make Amarone (made exclusively from dried grapes and thus an expensive wine to produce) are added into the vats of already fermenting Valpolicella wine.

That wine will be completing its malolactic fermentation at that point. The skins are added to donate the residual sweetness that characterizes the Amarone flavor profile into the Valpo as a way to acquire similar richness without the cost of relying exclusively on raisined grapes.

This technique adds complexity, making this wine a great candidate for aging. When you buy Valpolicella Ripasso it has already been aged for eighteen months in oak and four months in the bottle. After you find a bottle you love, buy a few extra and age them for another 5-7 years for an extraordinary treat!

Wine Choice #2: Barbera d’Alba

Another fantastically smooth wine, Barbera d’Alba hails from the Cuneo province in the Piedmont region of Northwestern Italy.

The westernmost region of Italy (bordering both France and Switzerland), Piedmont is known for beautiful rolling hills and chalky, limestone-rich clay which produces exceptional grapes.

Piedmont is at the foot of the mountains with a hot, dry, and sunny climate lending itself towards fantastic grape production.

Wines with the Barbera d’Alba designation are made with a minimum of 85% Barbera grapes, with up to 15% percent allowed of Nebbiolo grapes. Barbera grapes were once considered to be “common” (meaning only used in table wines), but thanks to new techniques, that perception has completely changed in recent years.

Wines made from Barbera grapes are known for their beautiful color (be sure to check out the gorgeous purple reflections in the glass), low tannins, and high acidity.

These wines are best when bottle-aged a few years to allow the tannins, acidity, fruit, and oak to all mellow together and integrate.

When you sip this beautiful wine, you’ll taste hints of dark fruits with a bit of balsamic, delicate baking spices, and sometimes a whisper of licorice.

Smooth, stunning, and perfect for a holiday meal!

Wine Choice #3: Cannonau di Sardegna

My third recommendation is Cannonau di Sardegna, from the island of Sardinia (<– U.S. spelling).

The second largest island in in the Mediterranean (after Sicily!), Sardinia is a rugged island with sandy coastlines and interior mountains.

The vineyards on the rugged Eastern coastal range grow the rich, red Cannonau grapes required this produce this appellation.

The official Cannonau di Sardegna designation can be used for the entire region of Sardinia. The towns of Oliena, Dorgali, Jerzu, and Cape Ferrato produce particularly notable wines from their Cannonau grapes.

Cannonau is believed by some to have originated on the island of Sardinia while others argue the grape comes from Spain (where it is known as Garnacha). Wherever it originated from, this grape is one of my personal favorites.

Cannonau di Sardegna often has an aroma of Mediterranean scrub and rosemary, which makes it an obvious choice for a holiday meal. It is robust, well-structured on the palate, with evident tannins and a complex, sweet finish of minerals.

I find that this wine goes particularly well with anything garlicky!

Okay, now that we’ve got the wine selections down pat, let’s talk about the food. Without further ado, here are…

Sixteen Sumptuous Side Dishes to Bring to Thanksgiving!

Roasted Grape Crostini with Whipped Ricotta and Hazelnuts

Okay, starting things off here with something that isn’t really a side dish. Technically this is more of an appetizer, but I don’t think anyone will complain.

These roasted grape crostinis with whipped ricotta are sure to become a family favorite!

Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Pierogi

Holy gorgeous pierogi! These beauties from Eating European would be a lovely addition to the hors d’oeuvres menu. Butternut squash is a perfect flavor for autumn, and I love the addition of feta cheese for creaminess.

Sauteed Belgian Endive

We eat tons of endive over here, but usually it’s just raw in salads. When I saw these gorgeous sauteed endives from Spanglish Spoon, I knew I had to put them on the menu!

Kale, Apple, and Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad

This salad comes from This Healthy Table, and I really want it on my healthy table. Brussels sprouts, kale, apples, walnuts, aged cheese… could anything be more perfect?

Roasted Beet & Carrot Lentil Salad with Feta, Yogurt, and Dill

Can’t you just see this gorgeous salad piled high on an oval serving platter? The Bojon Gourmet serves this warm and cozy with a yogurt-dill sauce. Yum!

Roasted Mushrooms in Brown Butter

Mushrooms are always a good idea in the autumn, and this roasted version from Closet Cooking looks perfect for a fancy meal. Plus, brown butter is good on everything.

Braised Flat Beans in Tomato Sauce

This is one of my own concoctions, so I’m quite partial to it.

My partner’s mother is half Italian and fully vegetarian, so I know she would love these braised flat beans!

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These roasted Brussels sprouts from Primavera Kitchen are calling to me. I love a beautiful golden-brown vegetable, especially one covered in garlic and Parmesan.

Roasted Carrots with Farro, Chickpeas, and Herbed Creme Fraiche

I don’t think any Thanksgiving table would be complete without this stunning dish from Cookie and Kate.

Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

Don’t you just love the brilliant color of this pumpkin risotto from Platings and Pairings? This is definitely a great side dish to bring to Thanksgiving, especially if you have some vegetarians in the group who need something hearty.

Maple Walnut Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a requirement at my Thanksgiving table, and these twice-baked beauties from Savory Nothings are at the top of my list.

Golden Beet Gratin

I adore beets, but I really hate the way they stain everything in sight. Enter, the GOLDEN BEET! Running to the Kitchen has us covered with this gorgeous golden beet gratin. Cheese is life, guys.

Cheesy Garlic-Roasted Asparagus

Another very pretty option for a side dish! I happen to love asparagus, but this recipe from Cafe Delites makes me love it even more.

Quinoa Stuffed Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Kale

This squash from Well Plated is almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Vegetarian Cassoulet

Another perfect idea for the meatless eaters in your group! This Cassoulet from Feed Me Phoebe looks fantastic and filling.

Cranberry Apple-Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice is already a great idea for Thanksgiving, but this version from Carlsbad Cravings adds cranberries, apples, and pecans to it! Isn’t it pretty?

Okay, folks. That about wraps up today’s post! I hope you got some brilliant ideas for side dishes to bring to Thanksgiving.  I’d love if you left me a comment telling me which ones you’ll be featuring at your Thanksgiving!

These are my ten favorite Indian vegetarian recipes – try them for Meatless Monday!

As far as vegetarian-friendly food goes, Indian cuisine leaves nothing to be desired.

I’ve been on a major Indian food kick lately, so I thought I’d share the ten recipes that I find myself making again and again.

I’m not alone as these are very popular vegetarian Indian dishes for the readers of this website too!

Some are perfect for weeknights, others are best saved for a weekend.

Cook up a big pot of basmati rice (have you tried my perfect rice method?) and start working your way through these Indian vegetarian dishes!

Best Vegetarian Indian Recipes

Creamy Indian Vegetable Korma

This delectable Indian vegetable korma is loaded with potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, peas, and green beans.

Make sure you have plenty of naan to dip in the creamy coconut sauce!

Vegan Indian Potato Chickpea Stew

Spiced potatoes, chickpeas and carrots are simmered in a savory vegetable broth with spinach and plump raisins.

Toasted cashews and fresh lemon juice add crunch and freshness to this hearty meal!

Indian Mulligatawny Soup

This fragrant soup is spiced with curry and made from creamy red lentils, carrots, apples, and coconut milk.

Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers!

Curried Carrot and Cauliflower Pickles

A quick and easy refrigerator pickle recipe featuring curried carrots and cauliflower.

Warning: these are very addicting!

Mango Lassi

I love a good Mango Lassi – it’s as easy as blending fresh mango, yogurt, and a bit of milk.

Try this with lunch, or simply make it for breakfast.

Vegan Palak Paneer

I’ve used tofu in place of paneer cheese to make this dish vegan, but you can of course make it the traditional way if you prefer.

My recipe calls for frying up some tofu, putting some spinach and aromatics in a blender, then simmering the whole thing on the stovetop.

Top with a bit of coconut milk (or cream) and you’re good to go!

Indian Naan Bread

Naan is one of those recipes that is incredibly easy to make, but somehow you just never get around to making it.

I add a bit of turmeric to my recipe to give it a golden hue.

Curried Carrot Fries

I came up with this recipe by means of necessity – I planted too many carrots in my garden!

They’ve become a household favorite and are delicious when dipped in yogurt.

Easy Red Lentil Dal

It’s amazing what a few fragrant ingredients and spices can do to a pot of lentils!

Make this dal or dahl recipe (you can choose your spelling) and then serve with plenty of naan bread and basmati rice for the perfect Indian meal.

Bombay Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and richly spiced with Indian flavors.

Bombay Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any Indian meal!

BONUS RECIPES!

It’s been a while since I wrote this post, and I have two of the best vegetarian Indian dishes to share with you!

Madras Lentils

Inspired by those awesome little Tasty Bite packages, this wholesome dish is hearty and SUPER filling.

Jaipur Vegetables

Another Tasty Bite copy-cat, but this is one is vegan. It is LOADED with good-for-you ingredients. Dig in!

For even more Indian vegetarian dinner recipes, check out Vegan Richa’s blog!

Alright, I think that’s enough vegetarian Indian recipes to keep you busy for a while.

Ten easy vegetarian dinner recipes from places far and wide, all ready in under 30 minutes. No boring soups or salads in this list!

We all need more easy vegetarian dinner recipes, but frankly I’m sick of soup and salad. Here are ten of my favorite recipes to get a meat-free dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less!

Easy Vegetarian Dinner Recipes

Veggie Loaded Chow Mein

For a healthier version of chow mein, bulk up your noodles with a nutrient boost of fresh vegetables! Serve with a quick cup of hot tea and a binge-worthy show on Netflix.

Vegan Indian Potato Chickpea Stew

Spiced potatoes, chickpeas and carrots are simmered in a savory vegetable broth with spinach and plump raisins. Toasted cashews and fresh lemon juice add crunch and freshness to this hearty meal!

Savory Dutch Baby

This Savory Dutch Baby is loaded with cheese and topped with tomato, avocado, and a perfect fried egg. I had the chance to test out this handy Five Blade Box Grater — it definitely made preparing this meal even faster! Get yours from Amazon here.

10 Minute Pasta for One

Pasta for one, in just ten minutes time! This “recipe” requires NO MEASURING, just 5 ingredients, and can easily be scaled to make more servings.

Simple Soba Noodle Stir Fry

It doesn’t get much simpler than this! For nights when even looking through a take-out menu seems like too much work, use up some leftover veggies to make this vegetarian soba noodle stir fry.

Chinese Tomato Eggs

Chinese Tomato Eggs are as simple as they are surprising – perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Potato Chip Spanish Tortilla

A Potato Chip Spanish Tortilla is just the thing for an easy weeknight meal. You only need three ingredients and five minutes–start to finish– to get this dinner on the table!

Shakshuka

Whether enjoyed first thing in the morning, or as an easy breakfast-for-dinner, this classic dish of eggs simmered in spicy tomato sauce will both delight and satisfy. Be sure to serve your Shakshuka (or, eggs in purgatory) with plenty of crusty bread for dipping!

Atakilt Wat

This easy vegan dish is one of my favorite parts of any Ethiopian meal! Humble Atakilt Wat is made from cabbage, carrots, and potatoes spiced with fragrant Berbere seasoning. Serve it with simmered lentils and Ethiopian flatbread for an easy weeknight dinner!

Menemen

Menemen is just the thing for a hearty breakfast or an easy weeknight dinner. These Turkish scrambled eggs are cooked over low-heat until just set, then smeared over toasted pita chips to make a luscious and richly-spiced meal!

 Alright, I think that’s enough easy vegetarian dinner recipes to keep us busy for a while.

How to Host a Greek Meze Party: Traditional Greek Mezes, or small plates, are great for easy entertaining. Serve with bread and plenty of wine for the perfect party!

I like to think of myself as an equal-opportunity-eater, but when it comes time to pick favorites, Greek food is definitely near the top of my list.

Keeping with my recent string of posts on easy dinner parties, today is all about hosting a Greek Meze Party!

Just like with my Turkish Meze and Spanish Tapas parties, going with a “small plates” theme is the perfect way to host a low-key get together.

While visiting Athens I had the chance to try lots of different food, and I even took a cooking class to learn how to make some traditional recipes. Some of my favorite dishes (and my own recipes!) are listed below, but first we need to talk about equipment.

As per usual, I’m sharing my suggestions for equipment through affiliate links from Amazon because I’m a total prime junkie and I know you are, too.

Alright, here we go!

Greek Meze Tools

You really don’t need anything special to make these recipes, but I find that having these items on-hand make the whole process a breeze:

Mini Food Processor – great for making dips, spreads, and prepping chopped ingredients. I have a very serious relationship with my mini-prep plus processor. Get one from Amazon here (so many colors!), and then check out this article from Pinch of Yum that shows 12 Magical Ways to Use a Food Processor.

Small Scraping Spatulas – ideal for scraping those dips and spreads out of the food processor! Any small-size spatula will do, but if you’re in the market for one I like this set by OXO.

Sharp Knife – obvious, I know, but no one likes cutting tomatoes with a dull knife. I am a total Wusthof junkie (I favor the Classic Ikon series), and my favorite is the Deli Knife. So versatile!

Deep Fry Thermometer – ever tried to deep fry without one? I suck at it. If you’re already putting in an Amazon order, here’s the one that I use.

Adorable Serving Dishes – just go to World Market and go crazy.

Okay, enough of the obligatory stuff. Let’s talk RECIPES.

Greek Meze Party Recipes

Note: I’m still meat-free (8 months now!), so I’m sharing vegetarian recipes for this post. 

Authentic Greek Tzatziki

It really wouldn’t be a Greek party without tzatziki! I learned how to make this Tzatziki recipe while I was visiting Athens – everyone who tries it tells me that it’s the authentic recipe they were looking for!

Melitzanosalata

Melitzanosalata, or Greek Eggplant Dip, is a simple yet tasty dish of roasted eggplant (also called aubergine), garlic, oil, and lemon juice. It’s perfect spread on toasted bread.

Greek Fava

Traditional Greek Fava is one of the best things I tasted in Greece. All it takes is a handful of ingredients and half an hour. Serve with plenty of bread and red wine!

Greek Gigantes

Greek Gigantes are, not surprisingly, GIANT beans! In this recipe, the gigantes are slow cooked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly creamy and tender.

Horiatiki

Turns out I had been making this classic “Greek salad” wrong my whole life. So glad I had the chance to learn to make it the right way while in Greece!

Greek Red Pepper and Feta Dip

This dip only takes five minutes but it will be a favorite among your guests!

Potato Skordalia

Creamy potato, nutty almonds, and zesty garlic make up this classic Greek meze. Whether enjoyed as a dip or a spread, Potato Skordalia is an addictive snack!

Orange Marinated Olives or Deep Fried Olives

If you’re short on prep time, just hit up the olive bar at your local specialty market and set out a tray of olive varietals.

Rustic Olive Bread

Any crusty bread will do, but the salty olives in this bread really pairs well with all of the mezes.

To Round Out the Party

Set out plenty of bread and sliced vegetables for dipping in the various mezes. Some dried fruit and nuts would be lovely, too!

Beverages: I never turn down a glass of Ouzo (an anise-flavored Greek aperitif), but it’s also nice to serve coffee or tea with a party. Don’t forget the wine!

Dessert: Samali, a Greek-style semolina cake, would be absolutely delicious. For something easier, prepare a simple dish of Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts.

You could also go a little non-traditional and whip up an Apricot and Date Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, which you can prepare ahead of time.

Alright, I think that’s enough to keep us busy for a while.

Who’s ready to have a Greek Meze Party?

Spanish tapas parties are a fun and easy way to plan a night with family and friends. Make the recipes ahead of time, set the table, and keep the red wine flowing!

Guys, let’s talk TAPAS.

You all know I’m obsessed with dinner parties. My favorite type of party involves taking care of the work ahead of time, setting everything out on a table, pouring myself a glass of wine, and spending time with my friends and family. Just like my Turkish Meze Party, a Spanish Tapas theme provides the perfect opportunity to host this type of low key get-together with make ahead tapas recipes.

While visiting Barcelona I had the chance to sample many different tapas. Some of my favorite dishes (and my own recipes!) are listed below, but first we need to talk about equipment.

I’m sharing my suggestions for equipment through affiliate links from Amazon because I’m a total prime junkie and I know you are, too.

Alright, here we go!

Tapas Tools

You really don’t need anything special to make tapas, but I find that having these items on-hand make the whole process a breeze:

Mini Food Processor – great for making dips, spreads, and prepping chopped ingredients. I have a very serious relationship with my mini-prep plus processor. Get one, and then check out this article from Pinch of Yum that shows 12 Magical Ways to Use a Food Processor.

Small Scraping Spatulas – ideal for scraping those dips and spreads out of the food processor! Any small-size spatula will do, but if you’re in the market for one I like this set by OXO.

Sharp Knife – obvious, I know, but no one likes cutting tomatoes with a dull knife. I am a total Wusthof junkie (I favor the Classic Ikon series), and my favorite is this Deli Knife. So versatile!

Deep Fry Thermometer – ever tried to deep fry without one? I suck at it. If you’re already putting in an Amazon order, here’s the one that I use.

Adorable Serving Dishes – just go to World Market and go crazy.

Okay, enough of the obligatory stuff. Let’s talk RECIPES.

Spanish Tapas Recipes

I’m still meat-free (7 months now!), so I’m sharing vegetarian tapas recipes for this post. If you’d like to incorporate some carnivorous Spanish party food into the spread, try Clams in Salsa Verde and Gambas al Ajillo. You can also set out a plate of jamon serrano (or prosciutto) and chorizo.  Here is the vegetarian tapas party menu.

Patatas Bravas

My recipe for patatas bravas roasts the potatoes instead of frying them. The red sauce is KILLER. Make extra as they will go fast at a tapas dinner party.

Spanish Tortilla

A traditional Tortilla Española is absolutely delicious, but takes quite a while to make. I like to make a simpler version with potato chips! Authentic? No. Delicious? Yes.

Pan con Tomate

This might be the easiest recipe I’ve ever shared for a tapas spread, but the flavors are totally on-point. You won’t be disappointed.

Espinacas con Garbanzos

I love this easy dish of spinach and chickpeas – I’ve had success with this recipe from Smitten Kitchen!

Orange Marinated Olives or Deep Fried Olives

If you’re short on prep time, just hit up the olive bar at your local specialty market and set out a tray of olive varietals.

Rustic Olive Bread

Any crusty bread will do, but the salty olives in this bread really pairs well with all of the tapas.

To Round Out the Spanish Dinner Party

For Mindless Snacking: Set out a small bowl of salted marcona almonds to go along with the marinated olives. Bring a little sweetness to the mix with a tray of dried fruit – I’m thinking dates, figs, and apricots.

Beverages: I never turn down a glass of Sangria, but it’s also nice to serve either coffee or tea with a party.  Another great idea is to make a classic Spanish cocktail, such as Agua de Valencia.

Dessert: To stick with the make-ahead theme, I’d recommend preparing a classic Tarta de Santiago, which is a Spanish-style cake make with almonds.

Alright, I think that’s enough tapas party ideas to keep us busy for a while.

Now you have a great Spanish Tapas Party Menu.

Who’s ready to host a Spanish Tapas Dinner Party?

Looking for some fun inspiration for your next dinner party? You’ll love these vegetarian Chinese recipes and learn how to host a vegetarian Chinese dinner party! 

I’m a huge fan of the dinner party, and I love an excuse to have some friends over for a themed evening. This week I’m sharing a menu for vegetarian Chinese food!

I’ll provide the Chinese party food recipes, offer a preparation game plan, and even set you up with a grocery list.

Okay, first things first:

The Vegetarian Chinese Dinner Menu

This menu serves four to six. For larger crowds, double these Chinese vegetarian recipes.

Spicy Sichuan Vegan Potstickers

Chinese Tomato Eggs

Spicy Chinese Potatoes

Veggie Loaded Chow Mein

Spicy Sichuan Cabbage

Perfect White Rice

To drink: plenty of  hot tea and ice-cold lagers!

The Game Plan

Here is the game plan for the Chinese vegetarian dinner:

In Advance: Cut up the veggies for the chow mein and assemble the potstickers. Ice the beer!

Evening Of: Cook the rice, steam the potstickers, and stir-fry the chow mein, cabbage, eggs, and potatoes.

As Guests Arrive: Boil water for tea, serve drinks, fluff the rice, and place everything on the table.

The Shopping List

Produce:

• 12 ounces baby bella mushrooms
• 1 inch fresh ginger root
• 2 beefsteak tomatoes
• 2 bunches scallions
• 1 ¼ pounds yukon gold potatoes
• 2 heads garlic
• 1 serrano chile pepper
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 large carrots
• 1 small head green cabbage
• 2 large heads Napa (Chinese) cabbage

Refrigerated:

• 24 gyoza wrappers
• Large eggs
• 2 (5.6-ounce) packages yakisoba noodles

Canned/Dry/Bulk:

• Dried Scallions
• Dried Onion Flakes
• White rice

Asian Foods Aisle:

• Sesame oil
• Hoisin sauce
• Sichuan peppercorns
• Soy sauce
• Rice Vinegar
• Sriracha
• Dark soy sauce (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• Chinese black vinegar (optional)

Pantry Staples: Red Pepper Flakes, Garlic Powder, Vegetable Oil, Salt, Sugar, Brown Sugar, Corn Starch, Balsamic Vinegar (in case you can’t find Chinese black vinegar).

Alright, folks. I think I’ve got you pretty well covered for this vegetarian Chinese dinner party. Now, go forth and cook!