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Easy Small Batch Cinco de Mayo Fiesta for Two

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A simple and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal designed for two, featuring seasoned taco filling, fresh salsa, quick pickled onions, and warm tortillas. Perfect for an intimate celebration or casual weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or shredded chicken (grass-fed or organic recommended)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp bottled lime juice (or fresh lime juice)
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pickled Onions: In a small bowl, combine thinly sliced red onions, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and set aside to marinate for about 10 minutes.
  2. Make the Fresh Salsa: Dice tomatoes, finely chop jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat), and roughly chop cilantro. Combine in a mixing bowl with lime juice and salt. Stir gently and adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Cook the Taco Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef or shredded chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat.
  5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until meat is fully browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Add a splash of water if mixture seems dry.
  6. Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap in foil and warm in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
  7. Assemble the Tacos: Place warm tortilla on a plate, add a generous spoonful of taco filling, sprinkle shredded cheese, add avocado slices, a spoonful of fresh salsa, and top with pickled onions. Add sour cream if desired.
  8. Serve Immediately with your choice of beverage or side.

Notes

Use medium heat to allow spices to bloom without burning. Season gradually and taste as you go. Pickling onions adds a bright zing and can be prepared ahead. Warm tortillas wrapped in foil stay pliable. Leftover filling is great for salads or rice bowls. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas; for dairy-free, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cinco de Mayo, tacos, small batch, Mexican, easy recipe, quick dinner, pickled onions, fresh salsa, taco filling

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/easy-small-batch-cinco-de-mayo-fiesta-for-two-perfect-recipes-to-celebrate/