Cinco Done Well

 

A fun, festive, feel-good mix of my favorite Cinco de Mayo–inspired finds — clean cocktails, better snacks, plus a few extras to elevate the day.

 

1. Nopalera Todos Santos Candle

My current favorite clean candle from Nopalera — a luxe, woodsy scent inspired by the peaceful desert oasis of Todos Santos. I can’t get enough of this one. It blends notes of eucalyptus, basil, palo santo, sandalwood, and patchouli, with a soft touch of vanilla, cardamom, and violet.

Nopalera candles are made with high-quality, non-toxic ingredients — paraffin-free and without synthetic, hormone-disrupting fragrances — so they feel just as good to burn as they smell. I also have their Mérida scent (I bought at Living With Ivey), which is a lighter, beautiful floral option I also love.


 

2. The Siete Table Cookbook

I recently bought this cookbook featuring over 100 delicious gluten-free Mexican-American dishes from the Garza family, founders of Siete Foods. There’s truly something for everyone, and every recipe can be made dairy-free or vegetarian.

From shrimp tostadas and huevos rancheros to grain-free pancakes, salsa cruda, churros, and palomas, the recipes are versatile, approachable, and meant to be shared, savored, and celebrated with the people you love.


 

3. Helenitas Home Dos Flores Collection

The most beautiful Mexican ceramic homeware from Helenitas Home, founded by my close friend from college, Helen McLaughlin. I’m deciding between blush and marigold dinner plates, though I also love her serving platters and scalloped dishes.

I honestly love everything and wish I could have a set in every color. Each piece is handmade by artisans in central Mexico, hand-painted, and inspired by traditional Talavera-style ceramics—no two are alike, which makes them even more special.

Helen’s love for Mexico is reflected in every detail, and I feel so proud of her and this beautiful collection. I’m excited to bring these into our home and into everyday meals and joyful moments around the table.


 

4. Ranch Rider Spirits Variety Pack

One of the cleanest canned cocktail options out there. Ranch Rider is made with real spirits, just four simple ingredients, and under 2g of sugar. Independently owned and founded in Austin, Texas (where I went to college — Hook ’em!).

You can order online or find a retailer near you on their website. If you’re in Atlanta, they’re stocked at Tuxedo Wine & Spirits in Buckhead.


 

5. Alligator Pear Foods Sea Salt & Pepper Chips

Alligator Pear Foods is one of our favorite brands for tortilla chips and delicious guacamole. Order chips online here or find a store near you on their site. If you are in Atlanta, you can shop these locally at The Peachtree Road Farmer's Market, Gather'd Market, or order through Fresh Harvest Delivery - $20 off.


 

6. Milton Brook Unglazed Mortar and Pestle, 4-1/2-Inch

This is what I use at home for whipping up homemade guacamole. It’s not a traditional molcajete, but I like it for other uses too. I love the light neutral color—it’s very well made, sturdy, and easy to clean. It hasn’t stained or discolored in over two years since we bought it.

It’s the perfect size for small batches of guacamole, muddling mint for mojitos, or grinding spices and herbs. If you want to make larger batches of guac for entertaining, I’d recommend the larger size. Both sizes are heavy and won’t tip over.


 

7. G4 Tequila Blanco

This is one of my go-to additive-free tequilas for a simple, foolproof cocktail—tequila, soda, lime, and an orange slice.

While I know alcohol is horrible for our health, I still enjoy it in moderation. When I do drink, I stick with higher-quality spirits without additives like this one and mixers without added sugar or junk.

I’ve become more sensitive to alcohol over time—my gut, skin, and overall body definitely feel it—and too much leaves me feeling off and anxious the next day. I try to go weeks without it to give my body a break, and I don’t drink at home during the week. However, I still enjoy it when I’m out with friends and family, celebrating life with people I love.


 

8. Siete Mexican Wedding Cookies, 8-Count Multipack

One of our favorite cookies now comes in snack packs—making portion control a little easier. You can buy them at Whole Foods. Once you pop one, it’s hard to stop because they taste so dang good!

They’re grain-free, glyphosate-free, and a delicious treat that kids love too. Siete Foods, founded by the Garza family, was acquired by PepsiCo. However, so far they have continued the Garza family’s commitment to simple, high-quality ingredients, and we haven’t noticed any change in the cookies we love.


 

9. Vista Hermosa Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are generally a healthier option than flour, and these are a clean, delicious choice for authentic Mexican-style tortillas that we love. Made with just four ingredients—no seed oils, gums, or additives.

These USDA-certified organic, non-GMO corn tortillas are crafted using the ancient process of nixtamalization. This traditional method, used by the Aztecs and Mayans, unlocks nutrients and creates “masa,” which is then pressed into golden tortilla rounds with great flavor and texture. You can buy these at Whole Foods.


 

10. Mexican Fruit Plate or Cups

A simple but delicious, nutritious, and hydrating snack—perfect for warm days. Inspired by my sister-in-law’s recipe. Chop mixed fruit or slice it into long strips. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, sprinkle with Tajín, and drizzle Siete Chamoy sauce on top.

Some favorites to mix in are pineapple, mango, banana, watermelon, cucumber, and jicama.

Try it out and let me know what you think—take a photo and tag @JessBeWell.

Xo, Jess


 
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