Providing Mexican food for the bridal shower you're hosting is a natural choice if that's her favorite food, coincides with the theme -- such as a fiesta -- reflects her heritage or that of her betrothed. Mix traditional dishes with some that may be new to your guests. Provide a Mexican dessert alongside a traditional cake, as well as a variety of margaritas if you plan to serve alcohol.
Appetizers
Chips and salsa are traditional favorites to snack on before a main course of Mexican food. Make at least two or three varieties of salsa with different levels of spiciness as everyone has different tastes. Include a guacamole dip along with chipotle tortilla chips for another option.
Add soup to your menu for a multi-course sitdown meal or to add a warm option during cold weather. Consider green chili soup, cilantro soup, corn tortilla soup or a combination of soups.
Main Dishes
Popular dishes such as enchiladas, tacos or burritos can be served with different kinds of meat. Consider fish, chicken, ground beef or carne asada. Prepare the dishes ahead of time using various meats or set up a buffet-style bar where guests can build their own tacos or burritos. Tamales, huevos rancheros, empanadas, ceviche, paella or fajitas are other options you can choose.
Side Dishes
Spanish rice, refried beans and cornbread are typical sides you can serve with your Mexican food. Coleslaw, potato salad and chili are alternative choices, as long as you use an authentic Mexican recipe to keep with the rest of the food. Choose at least three sides to offer your guests so they have a variety to choose from.
Dessert
Fried bananas or vanilla ice cream are traditional Mexican desserts that will complement the Mexican meal you serve your guests. Another option is biscochitos, marranitos, churros, fiesta balls or other Mexican cookies. Flan or fruit-filled tortilla desserts may present your guests with something new to try.
Drinks
Lemonade, water, iced tea and fruit punch make refreshing alcohol-free cold drinks. Consider a variety of margaritas, such as banana, apple, cranberry or frozen strawberry for fruity choices. Colorful margaritas in tropical colors might contribute to the festive feel of the bridal shower as well. For an alternative to margaritas, consider red wine sangria.
Considerations
Try new recipes at least two weeks before the bridal shower to familiarize yourself with the dish and ensure the food turns out the way it should. Ask for help from any friends or family members with experience in cooking authentic Mexican food. Another option is to consider hiring a caterer who specializes in Mexican food, particularly if there will be more guests than you can comfortably cook for.
Tags: Mexican food, your guests, bridal shower, authentic Mexican, least three, tacos burritos, variety margaritas