Blue Plate Blog Episode 5- Cinco de Mayo

Entrée: Like most of the world we will have tacos today- as we do most Tuesday’s. I never really ate many tacos growing up but it is a staple in our home these days. We love any reason to celebrate so tonight will be a true fiesta. We’ll have tacos, and nachos, and queso and mock sangria (recipe below). I may string up a few more outdoor lights and play fiesta music. I’ll probably spring for a piñata and candy and let the kids take turns hitting it with a stick. We usually have a least one or two pinatas a year. I love anything that allows us to release pent-up emotions in a positive way 😊 Having said that, I will never forget the time we had a clown pinata at my son’s 2nd birthday party. It was unbreakable. I mean- kids, adults- no one could break this thing. Then, my dad took out his pocket knife and cut off the clown’s head and poured out the candy for the kids. I think the kids are still traumatized! 

First side: Tamales. What an emotional memory. I love food memories. Tamales remind me of my childhood. There was this house in downtown Geneva known as the “tamale house” where the “tamale lady” lived where everyone would get their tamales once a year. I can still smell them. I have had many tamales since but no tamale smells like the tamales from my childhood. 

Second side: Mock Sangria. Each year, I make this concoction for the kids and they ask for it throughout the summer as well. It can be completely personalized based on personal tastes and what ingredients you have available. I usually start with cranberry juice and add something sparkling such as ginger ale or Sprite and slice up various fruit such as limes, lemons, oranges and add a jar of maraschino cherries (including the juice). Stir and chill. Serve is cute clear plastic cups with whatever drink adornments you have (a slice of orange, and umbrella, a strawberry). The kids will love it. We call these our “fancy” drinks. 

Dessert: One day I’d like to learn to salsa dance. I was named after the opera, “Carmen” so I feel I owe it to my namesake. Have a beautiful day and thank you for “lunching” with me. 

Until next time- order’s up!