As we approach the colorful festivities of Cinco de Mayo, it’s time to prepare for the ultimate celebration! At our massage studio, we know that relaxation and enjoyment are key to a healthy lifestyle.

So, we’ve compiled a list of five essential drink recipes to add a touch of zest to your Cinco de Mayo celebrations. These drinks are not only delicious but also easy to make, allowing you to indulge in the spirit of the day without stress.

1. Classic Margarita

A Cinco de Mayo celebration would be incomplete without a classic Margarita. The perfect balance of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau creates a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail that has become a symbol of Mexican celebrations. Here’s our favorite recipe:

Ingredients:

– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz lime juice
– 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
– Salt (for rimming the glass)
– Lime wedge (for garnish)

Instructions:

– Rim a glass with salt by running a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into a plate of salt.
– In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau with ice.
– Shake well and strain into the prepared glass.
– Garnish with a lime wedge.

2. Michelada

The combination of Mexican lager beer with lime juice, hot sauce, and savory seasonings offers a unique, spicy twist on a traditional beer, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Ingredients:

12 oz Mexican lager beer (such as Modelo or Tecate)
1.5 oz lime juice
1-2 dashes hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
1-2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
1-2 dashes soy sauce
Salt and chili powder (for rimming the glass)
Sliced Jalapeños (for a kick)
Lime wedge (for garnish)

Instructions:

– Mix equal parts salt and chili powder on a plate.
– Rim a glass with the lime wedge and dip into the salt-chili mixture.
– Fill the glass with ice and add the lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
– Toss in 0-4 jalapeño slices
– Top off with beer and gently stir.
– Garnish with a lime wedge.

3. Paloma

The use of grapefruit soda as a mixer adds a delightful, citrusy effervescence to the drink, making it a lighter and more refreshing alternative to a margarita.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz tequila
– 6 oz grapefruit soda (e.g., Jarritos or Squirt)
– 0.5 oz lime juice
– Salt (for rimming the glass)
– Lime wedge (for garnish)
– Grapefruit wedge (for garnish)
– Rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Instructions:

– Rim a glass with salt using a lime wedge.
– Fill the glass with ice and add tequila and lime juice.
– Top off with grapefruit soda and gently stir.
– Garnish with a sprig of rosemary & a lime and grapefruit wedge

4. Horchata

This non-alcoholic drink is made from a blend of rice, milk, cinnamon, and sugar, creating a sweet and creamy beverage with a hint of spice that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or alcohol preference.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 cup milk
– 0.5 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions:

– In a blender, combine rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Blend until the rice is finely ground.
Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
– Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
– Stir in milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
– Serve over ice and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

5. Sangrita

Sangrita is traditionally served as a chaser alongside tequila shots, providing a spicy and tangy contrast to the bold flavors of tequila. It enhances the sipping experience and brings out the nuanced flavors in the spirit.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup tomato juice
– 0.5 cup orange juice
– 0.5 cup lime juice
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges (for garnish)
– Jalepeno wedges (for garnish-if you dare)

Instructions:

– In a pitcher, combine tomato juice, orange juice, lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
– Serve chilled in shot glasses alongside tequila shots, or enjoy it on its own.
– Garnish with lime wedges.

These five essential drink recipes are sure to add a touch of excitement to your Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a party at home or joining friends for a festive night out, these delicious concoctions will make your day all the more enjoyable. Remember to always drink responsibly and to relax, unwind, and revel in the spirit of Cinco de Mayo!