Cinco de Mayo

INGREDIENTS 2-3 large ripe peaches, diced (about 2 cups) 2 large tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups) 1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced 1 clove garlic, minced ½ cup finely diced onion Juice of 1 lime ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste INSTRUCTIONS In a medium bowl, mix together the peaches, tomatoes, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper Season to taste and chill until ready to use Serves 6

INGREDIENTS 1 cup watermelon cubes, frozen 2 oz. tequila ¼ cup ice cubes 1 tablespoon frozen limeade INSTRUCTIONS Add frozen watermelon, ice cubes and limeade into a blender. Blend on high.  Pour into margarita glasses. Garnish with a watermelon slice and/or lime wedge.

What better time to enjoy some favorite Mexican-inspired foods than on Cinco de Mayo, a day to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture! You may be surprised to learn that Cinco de Mayo is more widely celebrated here in the United States than in Mexico, which celebrates regionally. Many Americans mistakenly believe the day celebrates Mexican Independence Day, but it actually commemorates the anniversary of Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. In some parts of the United States where large celebrations take place, festivities include parades, Mariachi bands, and Mexican dancing. For most though, Cinco de Mayo focuses on the food as well as the beverages like margaritas, beer, and tequila.