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Mexican

Basic Guacamole
Vegetarian

The Basics: Guacamole

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there is nothing quite as essential as guacamole.
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When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there is nothing quite as essential as guacamole. In its most basic form, the creamy dip consists of perfectly ripe mashed avocado seasoned with salt. While there are hundreds of recipes, it's nice to have a simple one to start with. Once you've mastered the technique, it's easy to get creative with lots of variations. You can experiment with different types of onion, substitute lemon or orange juice for the lime juice, and change the texture by blitzing in a food processor. Since Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, it's a great time to share my favorite guacamole recipe. To check it out and see more suggestions on how to jazz it up, keep reading.

Paloma Cocktail Recipe
Cocktails

Happy Hour: Paloma

If you're a fan of the margarita, then you've got to try Mexico's most popular tequila drink, the paloma.
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If you're a fan of the margarita, then you've got to try Mexico's most popular tequila drink, the paloma. Traditionally, it's made of tequila and grapefruit soda, and served on the rocks with a lime wedge for garnish. The recipe here is an upscale take on the classic version: instead of grapefruit soda, it's made with fresh grapefruit juice, club soda, and simple syrup.

The resulting cocktail is so tart, refreshing, and balanced, you'll wonder why you've never had one before! Keep reading for the zesty, refreshing recipe.

Jalapeno Margarita Recipe
recipes

Happy Hour: Jalapeño Margarita

Why choose between green juice and a margarita when you can have both in a spicy-savory jalapeño margarita?
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Why choose between green juice and a margarita when you can have both in a spicy-savory jalapeño margarita? This one's made with celery leaves and lime juice.

This is the perfect drink for someone who tends to sway toward more savory drinks, like salty dogs or balsamic bloody Marys. However, a sugar rim could tone down the spice and acidity, so feel free to sub that instead of the salt. Serve it in a pitcher to make it fit for a crowd. To look at this picante Margarita recipe, read more

Ground Beef Tacos Recipe
recipes

Tex-Mex Tacos Take No Time to Make

I'm all for tacos consisting of crispy corn tortilla shells, ground beef, and cheddar cheese.
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I'm all for tacos consisting of crispy corn tortilla shells, ground beef, and cheddar cheese. This Tex-Mex favorite — inspired by the beef tacos I grew up on — may be a far cry from saucy carnitas and queso fresco, but that doesn't mean there's not room in the taco world for them to coexist!

The best part of the recipe? You'll be able to get these tacos on the table before you have time to say "giddyup." Just prep all the ingredients, and let diners customize and stuff their tacos to their liking at the table.

I made these in the style they're served at some of my favorite Tex-Mex restaurants — stuffed over the brim with lettuce and tomatoes. Care for more flavor? Add in some guacamole or salsa. I've even been known to drizzle (or more like drown) queso dip over these bad boys.

Forks will be required to scoop up the falling fillings, y'all. Get ready to dig into these Tex-Mex tacos.

Homemade Tortilla Chips
recipes

Tortilla Chips Two Ways: Fried and Baked

How do you prefer your tortilla chips?
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How do you prefer your tortilla chips? Puffed from the fryer and slightly flaky, or crunchy and dense from a trip to the oven? Good news: in less than 30 minutes, you'll have your chips both ways, thanks to two simple techniques.

To bake the chips, generously oil and salt them, then bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they crisp up and are firm to the touch. These chips will stay fresher for longer than the fried variety.

While you're frying, tend to the chips closely, because they only take a few minutes and the heat may need adjusting while you're frying. These chips tend to go stale after a few hours, so plan to make them right before you eat them.

Serve the chips with your favorite queso dip, salsa, or guacamole.

Keep reading for the recipe.

Frozen Margarita Recipe
recipes

No Sugar Needed For a Flavorful Frozen Margarita

In Texas, just about every restaurant offers three different ways of serving a margarita: straight up, on the rocks, or frozen.
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In Texas, just about every restaurant offers three different ways of serving a margarita: straight up, on the rocks, or frozen. I took this for granted, as when I moved to California, I sadly discovered that most Mexican joints don't offer the slushy form (with a few exceptions — thank heavens for the frozen margarita machine at Tacolicious!). Luckily, I am the proud owner of a blender, so when I'm making Mexican food at home, you better believe I'm pairing it with a frozen margarita.

There's no sugary syrup involved in my recipe, only orange liqueur, lime juice, and blanco tequila. And if you're worried it won't be sweet enough, don't be! This is a smooth, very drinkable cocktail. This recipe will make you feel the effects fast, so even if you think it tastes "weak" after a few sips, remember: that's just because your taste buds may be a bit frozen!

Keep reading for the recipe.

Mexican Dinner Menu
party planning

Serve Up a Fiesta That's Both Spicy and Sweet

When it comes to celebrating, there's nothing like serving up a Mexican-themed menu and a margarita (or two!).
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When it comes to celebrating, there's nothing like serving up a Mexican-themed menu and a margarita (or two!). Using fresh ingredients and spices, Mexican dishes are never short on flavor and depth. Covering everything from strawberry margaritas to pork carnitas, we've created a Mexican-inspired menu, so you and your guests can fine dine — fiesta style!

Frozen Strawberry Margaritas

Margaritas are a must at any Mexican-themed fiesta. Instead of whipping up a traditional recipe, try this strawberry rendition. Using classic elements like lime, agave, and orange liqueur — along with fresh strawberries and plenty of ice — will hit the spot. Consider añejo tequila — it imbues the cocktail with a smoother, more subtle flavor that your guests will love!

Bacon Guacamole

Guacamole is an essential appetizer. Take this classic Mexican-style dish to another level by adding bacon (yes, bacon!), an unlikely combination that's sure to please. With its creamy, crunchy texture and chipotle kick, this bacon guacamole recipe will be devoured in minutes.

The rest of the menu is after the break.

Recipe For Velveeta Nacho Cheese Dip
Vegetarian

Say Cheese! Nacho Cheese Dip

If someone were to ask me, "What's your guilty pleasure food?"
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If someone were to ask me, "What's your guilty pleasure food?" there's only one thing I can honestly answer: Velveeta. It's so bad . . . yet it's so good! Technically Velveeta isn't a cheese, but a "processed pasteurized cheese product" that has a creamy texture, mild cheddar flavor, and characteristic artificial-orange color.

Velveeta's most endearing quality, however, is its wonderful ability to melt; once heated, it becomes as smooth as velvet. Since 1928, when Kraft first introduced it to America kitchens, Velveeta has been used to make macaroni and cheese and my personal favorite, nacho cheese dip.

While I enjoy the traditional queso dip (a mixture of Velveeta and Ro-tel, a line of canned tomatoes and green chiles popular in Texas), I prefer this jazzed-up rendition. The refried beans provide a nice meatiness and the cumin gives it an element of smoke.

See how to make this gooey, insanely delicious dip.

Taco Bar Ideas
party planning

Set Up the Ultimate Taco Bar For Super Bowl Sunday!

A taco bar is a fun, interactive way to serve food for any party, but it's especially perfect for Super Bowl Sunday.
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A taco bar is a fun, interactive way to serve food for any party, but it's especially perfect for Super Bowl Sunday. The flavors are warm and spiced, the ingredients are easy to prepare, and guests can serve themselves during commercial breaks. So crack open a Corona and get ready to cheer! But first: watch our video for some great taco bar tips.