There's no one way to define a fiesta. Elegant or casual, mellow or lively, intimate or at capacity—chances are, it'll be all those things before the night's through. With thrilling food, splashy drinks, flickering candles and Latin music to set the mood, it's a great excuse to let down your guard and enjoy Rick's spicy lineup of fiesta-friendly Mexican cuisine.

Rick's Tips for a Mouthwatering Mexican Fiesta Decorate using natural elements, like branches of bougainvillea running down the center of the table, or a casual arrangement of flowers to add a splash of festive-yet-spontaneous color.

Have some food set out to welcome guests as they arrive. Serve the guacamole and sopes with the margaritas right in the kitchen or out by the grill.

Rick's Mexican spiced nuts make a great snack to start with: Toss unsalted roasted peanuts in a slurry of lime juice, guajillo chile powder and salt. Bake on a foil-lined baking sheet at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the peanuts are dry and toasty. Toss the cooled peanuts with an equal amount of toasted pumpkin seeds.

After a round of Red Hot Margaritas, switch to sparkling limeade, Mexican beer and wine.