If you’re searching for gluten free Cinco de Mayo recipes, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find 18 delicious, naturally gluten free or easily adapted recipes to help you celebrate Cinco de Mayo—or to bring a Mexican-inspired meal to any weeknight or dessert time.

Cinco de Mayo is a food-lover’s holiday for many of us — tacos, salsas, margaritas and sweets all make it feel like a mini culinary festival. A quick historical note for context: Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Mexican Independence Day is a separate observance on September 16.

This roundup focuses on gluten free Cinco de Mayo recipes across mains, sides and desserts. Most recipes are naturally gluten free or include easy swaps, like homemade gluten free flour tortillas or corn tortillas, so you can serve crowd-pleasing dishes without compromise.

Gluten Free Cinco de Mayo Mains & Side Dish Recipes

Tostones (Fried Plantains)

Tostones are naturally gluten free and perfect as a salty snack or side. Depending on ripeness they can be sweet or savory; I prefer firm plantains lightly salted and twice-fried for the ideal texture.

Gluten Free Tamales

Tamales are a classic that adapt well to gluten free masa or alternative fillings. Whether you prefer meat, vegetables or a vegan version, tamales make a festive, shareable main course.

Gluten-Free Flour Tortillas

Great Mexican meals often start with warm tortillas. Homemade gluten free flour tortillas are pliable, flavorful and transform tacos, quesadillas and burritos.

Veggie Burritos

These hearty gluten free veggie burritos, tossed with a creamy avocado dressing, make a simple weeknight supper or a satisfying festive main for Cinco de Mayo.

Grilled Veggie Tacos

Grilling peppers, onions and zucchini adds char and color for a memorable vegetarian taco night. Serve on warm tortillas with your favorite garnishes.

Fish Tacos

Make fish tacos special with a light batter fried or pan-seared fish and crisp slaw. They’re a beloved classic that’s easy to make gluten free.

Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos are ideal for a lively Cinco de Mayo menu. Try a bold take—like an unexpected peanut butter glaze or a citrusy marinade—for a fun twist that keeps the meal memorable.

Cauliflower Tacos

Roasted or crispy cauliflower tacos are a delicious vegan option, full of spice and texture that can convert meat-eaters and satisfy plant-based diners alike.

Quick Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a quick, comforting choice—made with gluten free flour tortillas or corn tortillas and filled with cheese, veggies or leftover proteins.

Mexican Pizza

For a playful dinner, try a gluten free Mexican-style pizza layered with beans, cheese, salsa and fresh toppings—pizza flavors with a south-of-the-border twist.

Chilled Mexican Pea or Lentil Salad

This colorful, chilled salad is ideal for picnics and potlucks. Peas and lentils provide satisfying texture and protein; add shrimp if you’d like extra protein.

Watermelon Salsa

Watermelon salsa is bright, refreshing and perfect for warm-weather celebrations. Serve it with chips or spoon it over tacos for a sweet-spicy contrast.

Gluten Free Mole Sauce

Mole is a rich, layered sauce with spice and a hint of chocolate. Making it at home elevates many dishes—chicken, vegetables or enchiladas—into something special.

Homemade Guacamole

Fresh guacamole is simple, economical and always a crowd-pleaser. Avocados, lime, onion, cilantro and salt are all you need for a classic version to serve with chips or tacos.

Gluten Free Cinco de Mayo Dessert Recipes

Gluten Free Churros

Churros are crisp on the outside, airy inside and coated in cinnamon sugar. This gluten free version delivers the same satisfying crunch and flavor as the classic.

Gluten Free Tres Leches Cake (vegan too!)

A vegan, gluten free tres leches cake soaks up three dairy-free milks for a moist, decadent dessert that still honors the traditional indulgence of the original.

Gluten Free Margarita Cheesecake (dairy-free, too!)

This tart-and-sweet cheesecake captures margarita flavor with tequila and lime. A gluten free crust—and a dairy-free option—make it a standout dessert for celebrations.

All of these recipes are designed to help you enjoy a safe, flavorful gluten free Cinco de Mayo. If you maintain a gluten free kitchen, keep separate utensils and cookware for any gluten-free items and double-check labels when using packaged ingredients.

For more gluten free recipes, tips on baking successfully, and product recommendations, explore the recipe archive on the site. If you try any of these dishes, I’d love to see your photos—tag your posts and share your favorites. Cheers and happy cooking!

~jules