Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by diving into the rich and diverse culinary traditions from across Hispanic countries. We’ve curated a selection of authentic recipes that bring the flavors of Latin America right to your kitchen. Each dish tells a story of cultural heritage and is crafted with ingredients you can find at our weekend farmers market. From Argentina’s staple condiment to Mexico’s simple street foods, explore these vibrant recipes and discover how to bring these traditional tastes to life using fresh, local ingredients found at #TheMKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park.
Argentina
Chimichurri is more than just a condiment in Argentine cuisine; it’s a cultural emblem, deeply rooted in the nation’s tradition of communal barbecues, or “asados.” This vibrant green sauce, made from fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper, perfectly complements grilled meats’ rich, smoky flavors. Its versatility knows no bounds — it can be used as a marinade for roast chicken, a zesty condiment on fish tacos, a refreshing dip for shrimp cocktail, or soaked up on freshly baked bread.
To make chimichurri, finely chop fresh parsley and garlic and mix them with red wine vinegar. Gradually whisk in olive oil to emulsify and season with chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce rest to allow the flavors to meld, then enjoy it in various dishes. Chimichurri’s simplicity and depth of flavor make it a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide, symbolizing the essence of Argentine hospitality and culinary tradition.
Colombia
Cool off with a vibrant Colombian Cholado—a refreshing blend that’s part frozen dessert, part fruit cocktail, and all delicious. Start with 4 cups of crushed ice as your base, then layer on diced strawberries, fresh pineapple, and juicy mango. Drizzle 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk over the top, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded coconut. For the final touch, crown your Cholado with maraschino cherries and a generous swirl of homemade blackberry syrup.
To make the syrup, blend 2 cups of blackberries into a pulp, then simmer with 1/2 cup water and 3/4 cup sugar until thick. Let it cool before using, and enjoy this creamy, crunchy, fruity delight on a hot day.
Cuba
Bring the refreshing flavors of Cuba to your dessert table with these delightful Mojito Cookie Bars! Inspired by the classic mojito cocktail, this citrusy treat combines the tang of lime, the sweetness of rum, and the freshness of mint in a rich, gooey bar that will transport your taste buds straight to the island. With a buttery cookie base and a luscious mojito curd, these bars are the perfect way to end any meal. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on a Cuban favorite or just want to enjoy a tropical-inspired dessert, these Mojito Cookie Bars are sure to impress. View the recipe on the Florida Dairy Farmer website.
Mexico
Savor the vibrant, authentic flavors of Saucy Lips Tacos Al Pastor Casserole, a quick and delicious dish that brings the taste of Mexico to your table in just 15 minutes. Crafted with Saucy Lips’ signature Al Pastor sauce, this casserole combines tender shredded chicken or pork with corn tortillas and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering base. Top it off with fresh market ingredients like diced onions, cilantro, sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and jalapeños. This recipe celebrates Hispanic Heritage, perfect for any night of the week. Get the full recipe here.
Peru
Lomo Saltado, a beloved Peruvian dish, combines flavors and techniques from around the world in one satisfying stir-fry. Marinated strips of sirloin steak are stir-fried with soy sauce, red onions, tomatoes, and the essential ají amarillo chili, then combined with crispy French fries and served alongside rice. A perfect fusion of Peruvian, Spanish, and Chinese culinary influences, this dish is flavorful but not overly spicy, making it a hit with diners everywhere. Despite its rich history and complex flavor, Lomo Saltado is quick and simple to prepare, coming together in minutes with easy-to-find ingredients. Want to try your hand at making this flavorful classic? Customise and download the recipe from EatPeru.com
Venezuela
Pabellón Criollo is the iconic food of Venezuela and for very good reasons. It features shredded beef, rice, black beans, and fried plantains as the main ingredients. What you get is a wonderfully balanced, flavor-packed supper, symbolizing Venezuelan history and culture. The shredded beef demonstrates European influence, while the black beans and rice demonstrate African origins. And the fried plantains lend a Caribbean flair. So, when you’re eating Pabellón Criollo, you’re practically tasting the story of Venezuela. View the recipe on FoodNetwork.com