I’m completely embarrassed to admit that I had refresh myself on Cinco de Mayo’s significance (I thought it was to commemorate Mexico’s independence, but turns out that’s a common misconception). So if you’re like me and need a quick history lesson: On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army was victorious over the French in the Battle of Puebla—a victory years in the making through the French occupation following the Mexican-American War. Of course, there are a million more interesting details surrounding the holiday, and I’m hardly doing it justice with only a few sentences. But I do feel a little better sipping this cocktail now that I know a bit more about what I’m toasting to this Tuesday.

Of course, margaritas are Cinco de Mayo’s celebratory drink of choice—but I wanted to offer something a little different to spice up your menu this year. Aguas Frescas are another traditional Mexican beverage, and they are perfect for warm spring weather. Throw in a shot or two of tequila and a party drink is born.

I used mango here because I love the color, the sweetness, and its May seasonality. You could use another fruit of your choice—watermelon, cantaloupe, and papaya are great, but feel free to experiment with the fruit you have on hand.

The resulting cocktail is unassuming, simple, not-too-sweet and perfect to wash down tacos, fajitas, tostadas…or, um, all of the above. Happy Cinco de Mayo!

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Boozy Mango Agua Fresca
makes 1 cocktail; build each individually

• 3 oz mango puree – recipe follows
• 1.5 oz tequila – I used Espolon Blanco
• 3 oz seltzer

Assembly
Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add mango puree and tequila and give a good stir. Top with seltzer and enjoy!

Mango Puree

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, with flesh cut from the rind (about 2 c. of mango – you could probably also use frozen!)
• ¼ c. fresh lime juice
• 1 ¼ c. water
• 3 tablespoons sugar

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and mix until well combined. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or strainer; discard pulp. Makes approximately 3 cups.

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Barware notes: My glasses are from a local shop called Nathan & Co., but you can find similar here. The pink plate is from CB2 (the pink is discontinued but the orange is pretty rad!). The napkin is Lilly Pulitzer for Target (now sold out). The small bowl was an estate sale find, but these are similar.